On this page
Key Facts
- Material
- Bark
- Botanical source
- Albizia julibrissin
- Direct human evidence
- No verified study currently linked
What Is He Huan Pi?
He Huan Pi (Albizia julibrissin), known in Chinese as 合欢皮 is the bark of Albizia julibrissin (Fabaceae), a traditional Chinese medicinal material with documented use in classical TCM texts. In the traditional TCM framework, it is classified as neutral in nature and sweet in flavor.
Calms the Shen, resolves depression, harmonizes the Blood, reduces swelling. Used for insomnia caused by emotional distress.
Botanical description: Albizia julibrissin Durazz. (Fabaceae). A deciduous tree 4-15m tall with bipinnate leaves and fluffy pink flower heads. The medicinal bark is collected in summer/autumn, dried, and used as thin curved pieces with grey-brown outer surface.
Traditional TCM Context
Traditional functions: Calms the Shen, resolves depression, harmonizes the Blood, reduces swelling. Used for insomnia caused by emotional distress.
Traditional uses: Used for insomnia, depression, anxiety, irritability, and poor memory caused by emotional constraint and Liver Qi Stagnation. Particularly suited for sleep disorders with emotional triggers.
This description reflects traditional TCM theory and is not a modern medical diagnosis or treatment claim.
What Research Applies to He Huan Pi?
Pharmacological studies confirm antidepressant, anti-anxiety, and sedative effects. Lignan glycosides and saponins are the main active constituents.
No published research studies are currently linked to He Huan Pi 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. Safety data during pregnancy and lactation are insufficient. May enhance sedation when combined with CNS depressants.
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 He Huan Pi 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 He Huan Pi 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 He Huan Pi as a medicinal material. For urgent or severe symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.
Sources Used on This Page(2)
- 1.
Multiple authors. A comparison review of Hehuan flowers and Hehuan bark on the traditional uses, phytochemistry and pharmacological effects. Journal of Ethnopharmacology. 2023.
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: Albiziae Cortex (He Huan Pi).
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.