Ba Wei Di Huang Wan
Star八味地黄丸 (Eight-Ingredient Pill)
Source: Jin Gui Yao Lue — Zhang Zhongjing (Han, 220)
Last updated July 22, 2026
Description
Ba Wei Di Huang Wan (Eight-Ingredient Pill), also known as Jin Gui Shen Qi Wan (Kidney Qi Pill), is the foundational formula for warming Kidney Yang. It builds Liu Wei Di Huang Wan's Yin-nourishing base with Gui Zhi and Zhi Fu Zi to activate Kidney Yang's warming, transforming, and steaming functions. A small amount of Yang-warming herbs in a large Yin-nourishing base reflects the principle of 'seeking Yang within Yin'.
Composition
| Herb | Amount | % | Role | Function |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shu Di Huang | 24g | 29.63% | Jun (Chief) | Nourishes Kidney Yin and Essence as the foundation for Yang transformation. |
| Shan Zhu Yu | 12g | 14.81% | Chen (Deputy) | Nourishes Liver and Kidney, astringes Essence. |
| Shan Yao | 12g | 14.81% | Chen (Deputy) | Tonifies Spleen, generates postnatal Essence. |
| Zhi Fu Zi | 3g | 3.7% | Zuo (Assistant) | Warms and activates Kidney Yang, dispels deep Cold. |
| Rou Gui | 3g | 3.7% | Zuo (Assistant) | Warms Kidney Yang, unblocks channels, guides fire back to its source. |
| Ze Xie | 9g | 11.11% | Zuo (Assistant) | Drains turbidity, prevents stagnation. |
| Mu Dan Pi | 9g | 11.11% | Zuo (Assistant) | Clears heat, balances warming herbs. |
| Fu Ling | 9g | 11.11% | Zuo (Assistant) | Drains dampness, supports Spleen. |
Total weight: 87g
Preparation
Honey pills or decoction. Decoct gently 30–40 minutes. Take warm in 2 doses/day.
Dosage
6–9g honey pills twice daily on empty stomach. Avoid if heat signs are present.
Conditions Addressed
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Traditional formula information is for educational purposes only. Herbal formulas should be prescribed by a qualified practitioner — dosages and combinations are individualized and can interact with medications.
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