Stems and woodsExterior-releasingRamulus Cinnamomi

Gui Zhi (Cinnamon Twig)

A practical guide to Gui Zhi: what it is, how Traditional Chinese Medicine uses it, the classical formulas it appears in, and who should be careful with it.

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Last reviewed Sep 25, 2026

Quick Facts

Latin NameRamulus Cinnamomi
Chinese Name & Pinyin 桂枝 · Gui Zhi
Medicinal PartStems and woods
The herbGui Zhi is the dried young twig of Cinnamomum cassia. Rou Gui is the dried bark and a separate official drug. Ceylon cinnamon bark is not this herb.
Nature and channelsAcrid, sweet, warm. Enters the Heart, Lung, and Bladder. Acridity disperses and unblocks. Sweetness moderates and assists yang.
Pharmacopoeia lineInduces sweating and releases the muscle layer. Warms and unblocks the channels. Assists yang and transforms qi. Calms rushing-up qi. Used for wind-cold common cold, cold epigastric and abdominal pain, amenorrhea from blood-cold, joint painful obstruction, phlegm-fluid, edema, palpitations, and running piglet.
Pattern cuesAversion to wind with sweat. Floating moderate pulse. Cold painful amenorrhea. Phlegm-fluid palpitations. Qi rushing up the chest. Pale tongue with white coating.
In this articleGui Zhi versus Rou Gui, Sheng Jiang, and Fu Zi. What “use Gui Zhi when there is sweat” means in Gui Zhi Tang. Why yin-deficiency heat is a stop sign. Who should skip it.

What Is Gui Zhi?

Gui Zhi (桂枝; Guì Zhī; Latin: Cinnamomi Ramulus; English: cinnamon twig) is the dried young twig of Cinnamomum cassia Presl. In Chinese medicine it is a warm, acrid exterior-releasing herb. It is acrid, sweet, and warm, enters the Heart, Lung, and Bladder channels, and its core actions are to induce sweating and release the muscle layer, warm and unblock the channels, assist yang and transform qi, and calm rushing-up qi. It is not Rou Gui (cassia bark). The bark is acrid-hot and holding. It more strongly supplements fire and warms the interior. The twig is acrid-warm and mobile. It more strongly releases the muscle layer, unblocks yang, and transforms qi. It is also not Ceylon cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum). Culinary bark is not this official twig.

It is used most often for three patterns:

  • Wind-cold with exterior deficiency / disharmony of ying and wei — aversion to wind, fever, sweating, floating moderate pulse
  • Cold congealing in the vessels — cold abdominal pain, amenorrhea from blood-cold, painful joints
  • Phlegm-fluid and water qi — palpitations, edema, qi rushing up the chest (running piglet)

It is usually used raw. Honey-fried Gui Zhi is less dispersing and leans toward warming and unblocking. The usual decoction dose is 3–10 g. Warm-heat diseases, yin-deficiency fire, and reckless hot blood are contraindications. Use with care in pregnancy and heavy periods. Acrid-warm unblocking of yang is not kitchen cinnamon powder to dust on dessert at bark doses.

When wind-cold presents with sweat, joints fear cold, or thin fluid rushes up, ying-wei disharmony and yang-deficiency water accumulation are common. Gui Zhi is acrid, sweet, and warm. It releases the muscle layer, unblocks yang, and transforms qi, which is why it appears in Gui Zhi Tang, Ling Gui Zhu Gan Tang, and Gui Zhi Fu Ling Wan. It unblocks yang more than it nourishes yin. A dry red tongue and night sweats get worse if more warmth is added.

Gui Zhi is not a catch-all for chills or sweating, and kitchen cinnamon is not a substitute. In yin-deficiency fire or heat damaging yin, using it alone can assist heat and stir blood. Twig or bark should be decided by a licensed Chinese medicine practitioner after pattern diagnosis.

Gui Zhi Cinnamon Twig

Gui Zhi: Materia Medica Profile

Identification & Quality Standard

Ramulus Cinnamomi

Botanical Origin

The dried tender branches of Cinnamomum cassia Presl (Lauraceae)

Production Regions

Primarily produced in the Chinese provinces of Fujian, Guangdong, Guangxi.

Quality Requirements

Superior medicinal material has thin and even branches, brownish-yellow color and potent aromatic odor.

Macroscopic Features

Long cylindrical, numerous branches, 30~75cm long, thick end is about 0.3~1cm in diameter. Externally reddish-brown to brown, with longitudinal crest lines, thin wrinkles and small spot-like scars of leaf, branch, and bud, spotted lenticels. Hard and brittle texture, easily broken. Slices are 2~4mm thick, fractured surface has reddish-brown cortex, yellowish-white to pale yellowish-brown xylem, slightly square pith. Distinctively aromatic odor, sweet and slightly acrid taste, which is relatively potent in the cortex.

Authentic Production Regions and Quality Identification

Historically, the most authentic and high-quality Gui Zhi (Cinnamon Twig) comes from Guangxi and Guangdong provinces. However, harvest timing and storage also heavily influence the final quality.

  • Appearance: They are long, cylindrical twigs, reddish-brown to brown, with tiny ridges, leaf marks, and a hard but brittle texture that snaps easily.
  • Flavor and Scent: The inner wood is yellowish-white. It has a highly fragrant scent and a sweet, slightly pungent (spicy) taste.
  • Authenticity: There are very few fakes on the market, making it relatively easy to identify and purchase safely.

Traditional Properties & Historical Lineage

Nature, Flavour & Channel Tropism

Acrid, Sweet; WarmHeartLungBladder

1. Historical Herbal Records

This classic herb is well-documented in ancient TCM texts:

  • Shen Nong Ben Cao Jing: Noted its traditional use for easing coughs, clearing throat blockages, benefiting the joints, and boosting Qi.
  • Ming Yi Bie Lu: Highlighted its ability to warm the meridians, promote sweating to relieve cold, and ease chest and rib pain.

2. Evolution of Medicinal Understanding

Over the centuries, TCM practitioners have focused on two main strengths of Gui Zhi (Cinnamon Twig):

  • Releasing the Exterior: Many rely on it to quickly drive out surface-level cold, making it a go-to for early-stage wind-cold colds.
  • Warming the Channels: Others emphasize its power to improve blood flow, using it to relieve cold-induced joint pain, stiffness, and menstrual cramps. It is always carefully combined with other herbs based on a person’s specific constitution rather than being used blindly.
Gui Zhi Cinnamon Twig

Core Efficacies & Traditional Applications

Traditional Functions

Promotes sweating, resolves the flesh, warms and frees the channels and vessels, assists yang in transforming qi, downbears qi. Apply to wind-cold type of common cold, abdominal cold pain, amenorrhea due to cold blood, joint impediment, phlegm and retained fluid, edema, palpitations, renal mass.

1. Primary Focus: Releasing the Exterior

Its traditional primary function is to induce sweating to dispel wind and cold. It is commonly used for early-stage wind-cold colds, which present with symptoms like fever, chills, headaches, and body aches.

  • It is usually combined with herbs like Ma Huang (Ephedra) and Bai Shao (White Peony Root).
  • Caution: It is not suitable for wind-heat colds (colds with sore throat and yellow phlegm) and should not be used on your own for such conditions.

2. Secondary Focus: Warming the Meridians

Its secondary function is to warm and unblock the body's meridians. It is often used for conditions caused by cold and blood stasis, such as menstrual cramps, absent periods, and cold-induced joint pain.

  • It is typically paired with Dang Gui (Angelica Root) and Chuan Xiong (Sichuan Lovage Rhizome).
  • Caution: Use with care during pregnancy, and do not use it without guidance if you experience heavy menstrual bleeding.

3. Common Herbal Pairing

Gui Zhi (Cinnamon Twig) is frequently paired with Bai Shao (White Peony Root).

  • Gui Zhi warms and unblocks the meridians, while Bai Shao nourishes the blood and preserves Yin.
  • Together, they harmonize the body and are highly effective for exterior deficiency wind-cold syndromes. This pairing requires a proper diagnosis by a TCM practitioner.
Gui Zhi Cinnamon Twig

Modern Research

Modern research offers useful context, but Traditional Chinese Medicine prescribes on whole-pattern diagnosis rather than isolated compounds.

(Note: While modern science looks at specific isolated compounds, TCM relies on the holistic synergy of the whole herb.)

1. Key Chemical Components

Modern lab tests show that Gui Zhi (Cinnamon Twig) contains volatile oils, such as cinnamaldehyde and cinnamic acid.

  • In test tubes, it shows mild antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects.
  • In animal studies, it has been observed to slightly raise body temperature and promote blood circulation, echoing its traditional warming properties.

2. Modern Pharmacological Focus

Current research mainly focuses on how it affects the cardiovascular and immune systems. Lab studies suggest it may help dilate blood vessels and improve microcirculation.

3. Limitations of Modern Research

It is important to keep these modern scientific findings in perspective:

  • Lab Results vs. Clinical Reality: What works in a lab or animal model does not automatically equal clinical success in humans.
  • Extracts vs. Traditional Brews: Highly concentrated extracts or single chemicals act very differently than traditional water-boiled herbal teas.
  • Holistic Action: You cannot judge a traditional herb by just one chemical component. The true healing power of Gui Zhi (Cinnamon Twig) comes from all of its natural compounds working together in harmony.
Gui Zhi Cinnamon Twig

Comparing Similar Herbs

1. Common Ground

Both Gui Zhi (Cinnamon Twig) and Ma Huang (Ephedra) are used to induce sweating, release the exterior, and treat wind-cold conditions. Both require careful attention to the patient's constitution and dosage.

2. Core Differences

  • Nature and Mildness: Gui Zhi is warm and sweet/pungent with a relatively mild action. Ma Huang is warm, pungent, and slightly bitter, but its action is much stronger and harsher.
  • Core Strengths: Gui Zhi excels at warming meridians and gently releasing muscle tension. Ma Huang is heavily focused on inducing a strong sweat and calming asthma or wheezing.
  • Qi Regulation: Gui Zhi warms Yang energy to promote blood flow. Ma Huang opens lung Qi and helps the body process water.
  • Symptoms: Gui Zhi can be used whether the patient is sweating or not, and for cold-stasis pain. Ma Huang is strictly for wind-cold colds without sweat, and for asthma/coughing.
  • Contraindications: Avoid Gui Zhi if you have Yin deficiency with excess heat. Avoid Ma Huang if you are weak, naturally sweat too much, or have chronic weak asthma.

3. Summary of Differences

In short, Gui Zhi (Cinnamon Twig) is milder, focusing on the muscle layer and warming the meridians. Ma Huang (Ephedra) is stronger and harsher, focusing on inducing sweat and treating the lungs. They cannot be blindly swapped for one another.

Gui Zhi Cinnamon Twig

Classical Formulas Containing Gui Zhi

+8 more

Formulas vs. Single Herbs

  • Synergy is Key: A formula is a balanced team. The healing power comes from how the herbs interact, so a single herb cannot simply replicate a full formula's effects.
  • Holistic Balance: The exact dosage and combination in a formula affect the entire body. Never try to mix or alter these formulas at home based on internet articles.

Diet & Daily Home Use

1. Home Recipe: Gui Zhi Porridge

  • Ingredients: 10g Gui Zhi (Cinnamon Twig), 100g rice.
  • Method: Rinse the herb, boil it in water to extract the juice, remove the twigs, and then cook the rice in this herbal juice.
  • Use Case: Excellent for the very beginning stages of a wind-cold cold.
  • Caution: Do not use if you have a wind-heat cold. Limit to 1-2 times a week. Remember that this is a medicinal herb and should not be eaten in massive amounts like regular food.

2. Brewing and Processing

Raw Gui Zhi (Cinnamon Twig) is best for dispelling cold, while processed versions (like charred Gui Zhi) are used for stopping bleeding. For standard home brewing, it doesn't require special timing (like boiling first or adding last). Simply soak it in water for a bit, then simmer over low heat. Note that the dosage for raw teas cannot be directly converted to the dosage for pills or powders.

3. Dosage and Duration

The traditional prescription dosage ranges from 3 to 10 grams.

  • Dietary doses should be smaller than medicinal doses.
  • It is not recommended for long-term, continuous use. Special populations (pregnant women, children, seniors) must consult a practitioner.
Gui Zhi Cinnamon Twig

Contraindications & Safety Warnings

1. Who Should Avoid It

  • Do not use if you have Yin deficiency with excess heat (hot flashes, night sweats) or bleeding conditions caused by blood heat.
  • Use with caution if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have liver/kidney issues. Children and the elderly should only use it under professional guidance.
  • Strictly prohibited for anyone allergic to plants in the camphor family.

2. Drug Interactions

Gui Zhi (Cinnamon Twig) may interact with modern prescription drugs.

  • Using it with blood thinners may increase the risk of bleeding.
  • Using it with blood pressure medications may interfere with blood pressure control. Always consult your doctor before mixing traditional herbs with prescription meds.

3. Side Effects and Overdose Risks

If overused, it can cause dry mouth, a sore throat, or nosebleeds. Stop using it immediately and seek medical attention if you experience allergic reactions, severe vomiting, breathing difficulties, or rapid worsening of your symptoms.

Frequently Asked Questions About Gui Zhi

What is Gui Zhi? Is it the same as Rou Gui or kitchen cassia bark?
Official Gui Zhi (桂枝) is the dried tender twig of Cinnamomum cassia. The pharmacopoeial name is Cinnamomi Ramulus. Rou Gui is the dried bark of the same tree—acrid-hot, leaning to warming Kidney Yang, dispersing cold pain and returning fire to its source. Kitchen “cassia bark” is a culinary grade of uneven quality and is not Gui Zhi in a decoction. Same plant, different part and depth of action. Write Gui Zhi; do not swap in Rou Gui or pantry cinnamon.
What are the TCM properties and traditional uses of Gui Zhi?
According to the Chinese Pharmacopoeia, Gui Zhi is acrid, sweet and warm, enters the Heart, Lung and Bladder channels, and acts to release the exterior and relax the muscle layer, warm and unblock the channels, assist Yang to transform Qi, and calm surging and downbear Qi. It is used for wind-cold common cold, cold epigastric pain, Blood-cold amenorrhea, joint impediment pain, phlegm-rheum, edema, palpitations and running-piglet. Acrid-sweet and warm, it goes to the exterior and also unblocks Yang to transform Qi—suited to wind-cold, cold congealing and Yang-deficient water retention, not to warm-heat or Yin-deficiency fire.
Does Gui Zhi need processing? How does it differ from Rou Gui?
Slices are usually used raw; frying is occasional to lessen dispersion. The tender twig is acrid-warm, upward and outward: it releases the muscle layer and warms the limbs and chest Yang. The bark is acrid-hot, inward and downward: it warms the gate of vitality. Exterior deficiency with sweat uses Gui Zhi with white peony; interior cold and Kidney Yang lack uses Rou Gui. “Both are cassia” does not mean the doses interchange.
What is the usual dosage? Can it be steeped daily to dispel cold?
The pharmacopoeial decoction dose is 3–10 g. The volatile oil does not survive long boiling; add it late or boil briefly. It is not a four-season cold-dispelling tea. Yin-deficiency night sweat, warm-disease fever and reckless Blood heat grow drier with more warmth. Wind-cold still needs pattern work: exterior excess without sweat often joins Ephedra; exterior deficiency with sweat joins white peony. Do not force a heavy sweat on your own.
What are the contraindications? Can it be used in pregnancy?
Avoid in warm-heat disease, Yin-deficiency fire and reckless Blood heat. Acrid-warm heat assists fire and can damage Yin and stir Blood. Use caution in pregnancy and heavy menses; Blood-cold amenorrhea or painful periods need a practitioner. Exterior-deficiency spontaneous sweat is not “one more layer of sweating.” Stop if sore throat, nosebleed or vexing heat appears.
Can Gui Zhi induce sweat, unblock the vessels, transform rheum and calm palpitations?
It can help. Wind-cold exterior deficiency with sweat joins white peony, fresh ginger, jujube and licorice in Gui Zhi Tang. Phlegm-rheum and palpitations below the heart join Poria, Atractylodes and licorice in Ling Gui Zhu Gan Tang. Blood stasis masses join Poria, Moutan, peach kernel and peony in Gui Zhi Fu Ling Wan. It warms and unblocks cold congealing and Yang that fails to transform—not a specific for every cold, every palpitation or every dysmenorrhea. High fever and chest pain need emergency work-up.
Can Gui Zhi be drunk daily as a womb-warming tea?
No. Yang-deficient cold congealing may be treated in a short course; Yin-deficiency interior heat and heavy menses only grow drier. “Gui Zhi warms the womb” is mostly web talk; palace cold still needs deficiency, excess, cold and stasis sorted. Commercial tea bags often mix bark and sugar. Releasing the muscle and unblocking Yang should be prescribed with a dose.
How do you choose among Gui Zhi, Rou Gui, Ma Huang, Xi Xin and Sheng Jiang?
Gui Zhi is acrid-sweet-warm: releases the muscle, unblocks Yang and transforms Qi. Rou Gui is acrid-hot: warms the interior and tonifies fire. Ephedra is acrid-bitter-warm: stronger to open the exterior, induce sweat and diffuse the Lung—favored in exterior excess without sweat. Asarum is acrid-warm: disperses cold pain and warms the Lung to transform rheum, with a tightly limited dose. Fresh ginger is acrid-warm: warms the middle, stops vomiting and releases the exterior more gently. Exterior deficiency with sweat favors Gui Zhi; exterior excess without sweat favors Ephedra; lower-jiao deficient cold favors Rou Gui. They may be paired; all are too warm when Yin is deficient and Blood is hot.
Which herbs is Gui Zhi combined with? What are the representative formulas?
Ying-Wei disharmony joins white peony, fresh ginger, jujube and licorice in Gui Zhi Tang. Yang-deficient water-rheum joins Poria and Atractylodes in Ling Gui Zhu Gan Tang and Wu Ling San. Cold-congealed Blood stasis joins Poria, Moutan and peach kernel in Gui Zhi Fu Ling Wan. Weak chest Yang may join bitter orange and Allium. Write Gui Zhi, not Rou Gui.
How do you choose and store Gui Zhi?
Choose tender twigs, thin reddish-brown bark, a yellow-white section, a strong aroma and an acrid-sweet taste. Old hard rods, faded scent, mold and insects are inferior. Store sealed, cool and dry so the oil does not leave. Buy labeled Gui Zhi slices, not kitchen cassia bark or “cinnamon powder” sold as a muscle-releasing, Yang-unblocking drug.

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Medical Disclaimer — This article is provided for educational purposes only and describes traditional Chinese medicine concepts. It is not medical advice, and it is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Always consult a qualified practitioner before using any herb, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medication or managing a diagnosed condition.

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Gui Zhi (Cinnamon Twig): Release the Exterior, Warm the Channels, and Support Yang