South Almond Kernel Whole (Prunus Armeniaca)

South Almond Kernel Whole (Prunus armeniaca) is the dried inner kernel of the apricot seed, a classic medicinal ingredient known in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) as Xìng Rén (杏仁). This kernel has been used for centuries to stop cough, calm wheezing, moisten the lungs, and gently lubricate the intestines, making it especially valuable for conditions involving dry cough, thick phlegm, shortness of breath, or intestinal dryness. Its nature is bitter, slightly warm, and slightly toxic, giving it a downward-directing action that helps descend Lung qi and restore smooth breathing.

In TCM, Xing Ren enters the Lung and Large Intestine channels, where it helps relieve cough and asthma, dissolve phlegm, moisten dryness, and promote bowel movement. South Almond Kernel is traditionally used for chronic cough, wheezing, bronchial irritation, lung dryness, and constipation caused by insufficient fluids, especially when dryness and qi rebellion are present. Its oily texture nourishes the lungs while supporting gentle elimination.

South Almond Kernel is distinguished from North Almond (Ku Xing Ren) by its milder bitterness and gentler action, making it more suitable for longer-term or food-medicine use when properly prepared. It has historically been included in lung-soothing decoctions, congees, and restorative formulas to support respiratory comfort and internal moisture.

Modern research shows that Prunus armeniaca kernels contain fatty oils, amygdalin, proteins, and anti-inflammatory compounds with documented antitussive, expectorant, bronchodilatory, and intestinal-lubricating effects. These constituents support its traditional role in respiratory support and moisture restoration, while also underscoring the importance of proper preparation and dosage.

Each batch of South Almond Kernel Whole (Prunus armeniaca) is carefully cleaned and dried to preserve its smooth ivory kernel, natural oil content, and balanced medicinal potency. When decocted or ground and incorporated into formulas, it produces a mildly bitter, slightly warming preparation traditionally used to descend Lung qi, relieve cough and wheezing, moisten dryness, and support gentle bowel movement.