Wǔ Bèi Zǐ (五倍子) — Chinese Gall

On this page

1. Overview
2. Properties
3. Actions and indications
4. Modern research
5. Cautions and contraindications
6. Treatment at my clinic

1. Overview

Wǔ Bèi Zǐ (五倍子) is the dried gall formed on the leaves of Rhus chinensis by the aphid Schlechtendalia chinensis. Known in English as Chinese gall (Galla chinensis), it belongs to the category of Herbs that stabilise and bind in the Chinese Materia Medica. It is one of the most powerful astringent herbs in Chinese herbal medicine, used for excessive leakage of all kinds — chronic cough, persistent sweating, chronic diarrhoea, bleeding and seminal emission — when the underlying pattern is deficiency with leakage.

I prescribe Wǔ Bèi Zǐ as part of bespoke herbal formulas from pharmaceutical-grade granules sourced from Sun Ten in Taiwan.

2. Properties

3. Actions and indications

Principal actions

1. Astringes the Lung and stops chronic cough
2. Restrains sweating and binds the Intestines
3. Stops bleeding (especially in haemorrhoids and topical use)
4. Resolves Heat-toxin in skin sores (topical)

Indications

1. Chronic cough from Lung deficiency with leakage
2. Spontaneous and night sweats from deficiency
3. Chronic diarrhoea and rectal prolapse from Spleen-Kidney deficiency
4. Bleeding haemorrhoids and rectal bleeding (often used topically)
5. Damp-Heat skin sores and stubborn ulcers (topical)

4. Modern research

Chinese gall is exceptionally rich in tannins (around 50–70% gallotannins), gallic acid and ellagic acid. The high tannin content underpins its astringent and antimicrobial actions, with documented activity against staphylococci, streptococci, E. coli, fungi and several viruses. Tannins have local protective and haemostatic effects on mucosal surfaces. The herb has a long topical history in oral, dermatological and proctological complaints.

5. Cautions and contraindications

Contraindicated in patients with an active exterior pattern, internal Heat-toxin requiring expression rather than binding, and food stagnation — in all of which premature astringency can trap pathogens. The tannin content can interfere with absorption of iron and some medications: take separately from iron supplements and at least 2 hours apart from oral medication. Use with caution in patients with chronic liver disease at high or prolonged doses.

Important: Chinese herbs should always be prescribed by a fully qualified herbalist who is a member of the Register of Chinese Herbal Medicine (RCHM).

6. Treatment at my clinic

I prescribe Wǔ Bèi Zǐ as part of tailored herbal formulas for chronic cough with leakage, persistent night sweats, chronic loose stools, and topically for haemorrhoids and stubborn skin sores. Every prescription is individually formulated following a full TCM assessment.

I see patients in person at my clinic in Wokingham, Berkshire. Online Chinese herbal medicine consultations are available.

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