Dang Gui Si Ni Tang
Star当归四逆汤 (Tangkuei Decoction for Frigid Extremities)
Source: Shang Han Lun — Zhang Zhongjing (Han, 220)
Last updated July 22, 2026
Description
Dang Gui Si Ni Tang (Tangkuei Decoction for Frigid Extremities) warms the channels and unblocks them, nourishes Blood and disperses Cold. It treats the combination of Blood deficiency and Cold obstructing the channels, causing cold extremities despite no significant interior Cold. The formula is particularly important for cold hands and feet from Blood deficiency-Cold, chilblains, and Raynaud's phenomenon.
Composition
| Herb | Amount | % | Role | Function |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dang Gui | 9g | 17.65% | Jun (Chief) | Nourishes and invigorates the blood, warms the channels |
| Gui Zhi | 9g | 17.65% | Chen (Deputy) | Warms the channels and disperses cold to unblock the vessels |
| Bai Shao | 9g | 17.65% | Chen (Deputy) | Nourishes blood and preserves yin, aids Dang Gui |
|
Xi Xin
Low dose; observe the classical ≤3g decoction cap for Xi Xin.
|
3g | 5.88% | Zuo (Assistant) | Scatters cold and unblocks the channels to reach the extremities |
| Tong Cao | 6g | 11.76% | Zuo (Assistant) | Unblocks the vessels and promotes movement |
| Gan Cao | 6g | 11.76% | Shi (Envoy) | Tonifies the middle and harmonizes the formula |
| Da Zao | 9g | 17.65% | Shi (Envoy) | Nourishes blood and harmonizes (classically 25 pieces) |
Total weight: 66g
Preparation
Decoct all herbs in water 25–30 minutes. Take warm in 2 doses/day.
Dosage
Decoction: 1 dose/day. Take warm. Can be used long-term for chronic conditions.
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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