On this page
Key Facts
- Material
- Rhizome
- Botanical source
- Atractylodes macrocephala
- Direct human evidence
- No verified study currently linked
What Is Bai Zhu?
Bai Zhu (Atractylodes macrocephala), known in Chinese as 白术 is the rhizome of Atractylodes macrocephala (Asteraceae), a traditional Chinese medicinal material with documented use in classical TCM texts. In the traditional TCM framework, it is classified as warm in nature and sweet, bitter in flavor.
Tonifies Qi, strengthens the Spleen, dries Dampness, promotes water metabolism, stabilizes the Exterior.
Botanical description: Atractylodes macrocephala is a perennial herbaceous plant of the Asteraceae family, growing to approximately 30–80 cm in height. The medicinal part is the rhizome, which is harvested in autumn, cleaned, sliced, and dried. The dried rhizome is hard, yellowish-white to grey-brown in cross-section, with a distinctive aromatic odour and slightly sweet, bitter taste.
Traditional TCM Context
Traditional functions: Tonifies Qi, strengthens the Spleen, dries Dampness, promotes water metabolism, stabilizes the Exterior.
Traditional uses: Used for Spleen Qi Deficiency: poor appetite, fatigue, loose stools, abdominal distension. Core ingredient in Si Jun Zi Tang and Shen Ling Bai Zhu San.
Related TCM patterns
This description reflects traditional TCM theory and is not a modern medical diagnosis or treatment claim.
What Research Applies to Bai Zhu?
Polysaccharides demonstrate significant gastrointestinal motility regulation and gut barrier protection. Comprehensive pharmacological review confirms traditional uses for digestive dysfunction.
No published research studies are currently linked to Bai Zhu in this library.
Research information will be added as verified studies become available.
Safety Information
Safety Summary
What is known
Safety information should be considered in the context of the specific preparation, health conditions, and medicines being used. May cause dry mouth in Yin Deficiency patients.
What remains uncertain
- Herb-specific clinical safety data (adverse events, toxicity, long-term use) are not available for review.
- Drug-herb interaction data specific to Bai Zhu may be lacking; most published interaction studies use extracts or isolated compounds.
Who should seek professional guidance
Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals, those taking prescription medications, people managing chronic conditions, and anyone considering herbal products for children should consult a qualified healthcare professional before using Bai Zhu or any herbal product.
Platform safety boundary
TCMIO provides educational information only — not medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment recommendations. We do not provide dosage guidance, administration instructions, or individualized treatment plans. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using any herbal product.
Safety during pregnancy, lactation, and pediatric use has not been systematically evaluated for Bai Zhu as a medicinal material. For urgent or severe symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.
Sources Used on This Page(2)
- 1.
Multiple authors. A Comprehensive Pharmacological Review of Atractylodes Macrocephala: Traditional Uses, Phytochemistry, Pharmacokinetics, And Therapeutic Potential. Pharmacological Research - Modern Chinese Medicine. 2024.
Bibliographic details
Reliability: High
Source type: Review Article
- 2.
Chinese Pharmacopoeia Commission. Pharmacopoeia of the People's Republic of China, 2020 Edition, Volume I. Beijing: China Medical Science Press; 2020. Monograph: Atractylodis Macrocephalae Rhizoma (Bai Zhu).
Chinese Pharmacopoeia 2020Bibliographic details
Reliability: gold
Last checked: July 2026
Source type: pharmacopoeia
Medical Disclaimer: The information on TCMIO is provided for educational purposes only. It is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using any herbal products, starting any new treatment, or making changes to your existing healthcare regimen. Do not stop or modify any prescribed treatment without consulting your healthcare provider.
If you are experiencing severe or urgent symptoms, seek immediate medical attention by calling emergency services or visiting the nearest emergency department.