Quick Facts
| Latin Name | Castaneae Mollissimae Cupula |
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| Chinese Name & Pinyin | 板栗殼 · Ban Li Ke |
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| Medicinal Part | Others |
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| Efficacy Category | Phlegm-resolving |
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| Botanical Origin | The dried involucre (bur) of Castanea mollissima Bl. (Fagaceae). |
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| Nature & Flavour | Sweet, Astringent; Neutral |
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| Channels Entered | Lung, Liver, Stomach |
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What Is Ban Li Ke?
Ban Li Ke (Chinese Chestnut Bur) is a medicinal herb of Traditional Chinese Medicine.
Produced in most regions of China south of Liaoning.
Nature & Flavour: Sweet, Astringent; Neutral
Channels Entered: Lung, Liver, Stomach
Ban Li Ke: Materia Medica Profile
Identification & Quality Standard
Castaneae Mollissimae Cupula
Botanical Origin
The dried involucre (bur) of Castanea mollissima Bl. (Fagaceae).
Production Regions
Produced in most regions of China south of Liaoning.
Quality Requirements
Superior material is thick, dry and with dense prickles.
Macroscopic Features
Irregular plate-like pieces, 0.3~0.5 cm thick; externally yellowish-brown to dark brown, densely covered with dense prickles 0.5~1.5 cm long; inner surface grayish-brown, with dense yellowish-brown woolly hairs; base with 2~3 round scars left by fallen nuts; texture hard; fractured granular, dark brownish; slight odor; astringent taste.
Traditional TCM Properties
Sweet, Astringent; NeutralLungLiverStomach
Traditional Functions
Stops cough, resolves phlegm, and resolves toxin (anti-inflammatory).
How Ban Li Ke Is Used in TCM
In the Chinese materia medica, Ban Li Ke is classified among the Phlegm-resolving herbs.
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.
