Albizia julibrissin
Albizia Bark
Fabaceae
At a Glance
- Common name
- Albizia Bark
- Scientific name
- Albizia julibrissin
- Family
- Fabaceae
- Region
- East Asia
- Plant part
- Bark
- Caffeine
- None
- Evidence
- Limited
- Safety review
- Safety information on file
Safety & Cautions
Safety information on fileBotanical Description
A calming bark ('He Huan Pi', 'tree of happiness') used in Traditional Chinese Medicine to soothe the spirit.
A deciduous tree with fern-like bipinnate leaves and pink, puff-like flower clusters. The dried bark of the trunk and branches is the medicinal part.
Historical Background
Albizia has been used in TCM for centuries, its name translating to 'collective happiness bark', reflecting its traditional use to calm mood and ease sorrow.
Earliest recorded uses: Recorded in the Shennong Ben Cao Jing as a remedy for emotional distress and injuries.
Cultural significance: Planted in Chinese gardens for its cheerful flowers and its symbolism of joy and reconciliation.
Traditional preparations:
- Bark decoction
- Combined with other calming herbs
Traditional Uses
These uses document historical traditions and do not imply proven effectiveness.
Traditional Chinese Medicine
Used to calm the shen (spirit), ease irritability, and support restful mood.
Flavor & Aroma
Aroma: Mild, woody
Tea Preparation
Modern Evidence
Contains saponins and flavonoids with apparent calmative and adaptogenic activity in animal studies; human data is limited.
Evidence levels describe the state of research for the traditional use discussed here, not a recommendation. Historical use does not imply effectiveness.
Recipes Using Albizia Bark
Related Herbs
Entry last updated August 29, 2026