The dried fruit was gently boiled in water, according to ancient Chinese medicine practices, to extract the active principles. This preparation requires supervision by a professional trained in this pharmacopoeia. Dosage must be validated with a healthcare professional or recognized pharmacopoeia before use.
The fruit was ground into powder then mixed with a little water to form a paste, applied locally to heated skin areas. A preliminary skin test is recommended. Dosage must be validated with a healthcare professional or recognized pharmacopoeia before use.
Fresh petals were sometimes infused in a mild vegetable oil to capture their fragrance, used as a gentle cosmetic skin treatment. This preparation remains for cosmetic use and is not therapeutic. Dosage must be validated with a healthcare professional or recognized pharmacopoeia before use.
Gardenia can be found in ornamental gardens and specialized nurseries in Asia as well as Europe; its dried fruits (zhi zi) are available in herbalist shops specializing in traditional Chinese medicine.
The fruits are traditionally harvested in autumn, once mature and slightly softened, while the flowers are picked in spring or summer during their full bloom.