Du Huo Ji Sheng Tang and Du Huo Ji Sheng Wan are traditional Chinese herbal formulas widely used in treating conditions related to joint and muscle discomfort. Both forms—Tang (decoction) and Wan (pill)—are based on the same prescription and offer similar health benefits. These remedies originate from ancient Chinese texts and continue to be applied in modern medicine, particularly for issues like arthritis, sciatica, and chronic back pain.
In this article, we will explore what Du Huo Ji Sheng Tang/Wan is, its primary uses, and the associated risks, so you can understand its potential role in improving health.
What Is Du Huo Ji Sheng Tang/Wan?
Du Huo Ji Sheng Tang refers to a herbal decoction that dates back to the Chinese medical text Bei Ji Qian Jin Yao Fang (Essential Prescriptions Worth a Thousand Pieces of Gold)1. It contains 15 carefully chosen ingredients, each contributing to the treatment of conditions related to “wind, cold, and dampness.” These conditions, in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), are thought to cause joint stiffness and pain2.
Du Huo Ji Sheng Wan is essentially the pill form of the same formula. While the decoction offers quicker absorption, the pill is more convenient for long-term use.
Key Ingredients Include:
- Du Huo (Angelica Pubescens): Promotes circulation and relieves pain.
- Sang Ji Sheng (Taxillus Chinensis): Strengthens the liver and kidneys.
- Ren Shen (Panax Ginseng): Boosts energy and vitality.
- Dang Gui (Angelica Sinensis) and Bai Shao (Paeonia Lactiflora): Nourish the blood and improve circulation.
This blend aims to remove dampness and cold from the body while also nourishing the liver, kidneys, and overall energy (Qi).
- Chinese name: 独活寄生汤、独活寄生丸、独活寄生合剂
- Ingredients: Angelica pubescens (Du Huo), Taxillus chinensis (Sang Ji Sheng), Ginseng (Ren Shen), Poria (Fu Ling), Licorice (Gan Cao), Angelica sinensis (Dang Gui), Paeonia lactiflora (Shao Yao), Ligusticum chuanxiong (Chuan Xiong), Rehmannia glutinosa (Shu Di Huang), Cinnamon Bark (Gui Xin), Eucommia ulmoides (Du Zhong), Achyranthes bidentata (Niu Xi), Asarum sieboldii (Xi Xin), Saposhnikovia divaricata (Fang Feng), Gentiana macrophylla (Qin Jiao).
Health Benefits and Medicinal Uses
The primary use of Du Huo Ji Sheng Tang/Wan is for the treatment of chronic musculoskeletal conditions, particularly when linked to wind-dampness in TCM theory. Here are some common conditions where this formula is applied:
1. Chronic Arthritis
For those suffering from osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis, the formula helps by alleviating pain and stiffness, especially in the lower back, knees, and hips. It is often recommended for older adults whose joint issues are aggravated by cold or damp weather3.
2. Sciatica and Lumbar Pain
Patients experiencing sciatica or lower back pain may benefit from this formula as it warms the body and helps relieve the tightness in the muscles, allowing for improved mobility4.
3. Bone and Muscle Health
Du Huo Ji Sheng Tang is also used to strengthen bones and muscles, making it useful in preventing conditions such as osteoporosis. It promotes healthy circulation, reduces inflammation, and aids in muscle recovery, making it beneficial for people experiencing muscle weakness or fatigue5.
Example: If someone has been struggling with back pain due to long hours of sitting in cold environments, using this formula may alleviate the pain while improving circulation in affected areas.
Potential Risks and Side Effects
Although it is considered safe for most individuals, there are certain risks and precautions to be aware of.
1. Pregnancy Risk
Pregnant women should avoid this formula due to its potent ingredients, which may stimulate uterine contractions or pose other risks6.
2. Chronic Illnesses
People with chronic conditions like heart disease, diabetes, or liver and kidney diseases should use it under the supervision of a healthcare professional. The herbs may interact with other medications or exacerbate pre-existing conditions7.
3. Avoid Cold and Greasy Foods
When taking this formula, TCM recommends avoiding cold, raw, or greasy foods as these can interfere with the formula’s warming and blood-nourishing properties8.
How To Use it
The recommended dosage for Du Huo Ji Sheng Tang/Wan may vary depending on the form. For the decoction (Tang), you typically prepare it by boiling the herbs in water, straining the liquid, and drinking it warm.
For Du Huo Ji Sheng Wan, the pills are easier to manage: take 15-20 ml, three times a day with water. Always follow the recommended dosage from your healthcare provider9.
Pro Tip: If you’re new to TCM formulas, it’s always a good idea to start with a smaller dosage and gradually increase it to ensure your body adapts well.
Conclusion
Du Huo Ji Sheng Tang/Wan is a versatile herbal remedy that has stood the test of time in traditional Chinese medicine. Its ability to alleviate joint and muscle discomfort, especially when related to wind-dampness conditions, makes it a popular choice for people seeking alternative treatments for arthritis, back pain, and muscle weakness.
However, like any herbal remedy, it’s essential to be aware of the risks and consult a healthcare professional before starting a new treatment, especially if you are pregnant or have a chronic condition. Used responsibly, it can offer significant benefits for those suffering from chronic pain and mobility issues.
- https://sys02.lib.hkbu.edu.hk/cmfid/details.asp?lang=cht&id=F00164 ↩︎
- https://zh.wikipedia.org/zh-hans/%E7%8D%A8%E6%B4%BB%E5%AF%84%E7%94%9F%E6%B9%AF ↩︎
- 董宏生, 董占斌, 侯堃, 等. 独活寄生汤治疗膝骨关节炎肝肾不足证临床研究 [J] . 国际中医中药杂志, 2018, 40(6) : 510-512. DOI: 10.3760/cma.j.issn.1673-4246.2018.06.008. https://rs.yiigle.com/CN115398201806/1042216.htm ↩︎
- https://patents.google.com/patent/CN101491623B/zh ↩︎
- [1]庞江娜,武永富,梁芳,王江泳,赵旭兰,范亚坤,周艳艳,张灿.独活寄生汤联合摩擦步训练对老年骨质疏松症患者骨密度及下肢肌力的影响[J].世界中医药,2018,13(2):378-381385 ↩︎
- http://ojs.omniscient.sg/index.php/lcyxqy/article/view/11241 ↩︎
- http://www.a-hospital.com/w/%E7%8B%AC%E6%B4%BB%E5%AF%84%E7%94%9F%E4%B8%B8 ↩︎
- https://dep.mohw.gov.tw/DOCMAP/cp-866-7061-108.html ↩︎
- http://health.people.com.cn/n1/2017/0405/c14739-29189005.html ↩︎
