Zao Jiao Ci vs Vana Tulsi

Side-by-side comparison of medicinal herbs

Herb

Zao Jiao Ci

Gleditsia sinensis (spine)

Antimicrobial

Ocimum gratissimum

Antimicrobial

Zao Jiao Ci

❌ Not recommended in pregnancy

❌ Not recommended while nursing

Vana Tulsi

❌ Not recommended in pregnancy

✅ Generally safe while nursing

Description

TCM herb from the thorns of Chinese honeylocust; used to reduce swellings, disperse abscesses, and for skin conditions with blood stasis.

Shrubby basil of Africa and Asia; one of three Tulsi varieties used in Ayurveda; also widely used across Africa for infections and malaria.

Active Compounds

gleditsia saponins, triterpenes, flavonoids, alkaloids

eugenol, thymol, carvacrol, beta-caryophyllene, rosmarinic acid

Traditional Uses

Abscesses, Skin swellings, Blood stasis, Cancer support

Adaptogenic tonic in Ayurveda (Vana Tulsi variety), Malaria and fever across Africa, Wound healing in African medicine, Respiratory infections

Modern Uses

Anticancer activity, Anti-inflammatory effects, Antibacterial properties, Blood-activating action

Antimicrobial, Antifungal, Adaptogen, Anti-inflammatory

Adult Dosage

3-9g dried spine daily; 500mg extract

2–4 g dried herb as tea; diluted essential oil; 2–3 mL tincture

Contraindications

Pregnancy, Bleeding disorders

Anticoagulant medications, Pregnancy in large doses

Side Effects

Nausea, GI effects

Blood thinning, GI irritation in high doses

Drug Interactions

0 known interactions

Reviewed by: HerbAlly Editorial Team, Medical herbalists and healthcare professionals

Sources: WHO Monographs · NCCIH · PubMed · Commission E