San Ren Tang
Star三仁汤 (Three Seeds Decoction)
Source: Wen Bing Tiao Bian (Systematic Differentiation of Warm Diseases) — Wu Jutong (Qing, 1798)
Last updated August 30, 2026
Description
San Ren Tang (Three Seeds Decoction) is the primary formula for damp-warmth (damp-heat) in the upper and middle burners presenting in the early stage. Named for its three seed herbs (Yi Yi Ren, Bai Dou Kou, and Xing Ren), it opens the Lung, transforms dampness in the middle burner, and promotes urination to drain dampness downward. It is essential for treating the early stage of damp-heat febrile diseases.
Composition
| Herb | Amount | % | Role | Function |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Xing Ren | 15g | 17.86% | Jun (Chief) | Opens and directs Lung qi downward — frees the upper burner |
| Bai Dou Kou | 6g | 7.14% | Jun (Chief) | Aromatically transforms dampness and revives the middle burner |
| Yi Yi Ren | 18g | 21.43% | Jun (Chief) | Bland; leaches damp-heat out through the lower burner |
|
Hua Shi
Decoct in cloth bag.
|
18g | 21.43% | Chen (Deputy) | Clears damp-heat and promotes urination |
| Tong Cao | 6g | 7.14% | Chen (Deputy) | Bland; clears heat and promotes urination |
| Dan Zhu Ye | 6g | 7.14% | Chen (Deputy) | Clears heat and promotes urination |
| Ban Xia | 9g | 10.71% | Zuo (Assistant) | Dries dampness, harmonizes the middle, directs qi downward |
| Hou Po | 6g | 7.14% | Zuo (Assistant) | Moves qi and dries dampness, relieves fullness |
Total weight: 60g
Energetics dose-weighted
The formula's overall nature, taste balance and channel reach, weighted by each herb's dose. Classical formulas often pair warm and cool herbs on purpose, so a net figure summarises the mix — it doesn't describe every herb in it.
Nature
Net slightly cool (-0.43)
From 100% of the weighed grams.
Grams by band: cold 29%, cool 29%, warm 43%.
Pairs warm and cool. 43% of the weighed grams are warm or hot and 57% cool or cold — the net is their average, not the whole story.
Small but decisive: Dan Zhu Ye 6g (cold, 7% of the grams). Dose weighting nearly cancels a herb this small, but it may be what the formula is for.
Taste
- pungent 21%
- sweet 29%
- bitter 21%
- bland 29%
From 100% of the weighed grams.
Channels reached
- Stomach 82%
- Lung 71%
- Large intestine 46%
- Spleen 46%
- Kidney 21%
- Heart 7%
Share of the grams entering each channel, from 100% of the weighed grams.
Dose-weighted from each herb's recorded nature, taste and channels (missing values are left out, never counted as neutral). It describes the composition — it is not a recommendation.
Preparation
Decoct all herbs in water for 20–25 minutes. Take cool. Add Hou Po last 10 minutes.
Dosage
Decoction: 1–2 doses/day. Take at room temperature or cool. For febrile conditions, may take more frequently.
Conditions Addressed
Related Formulas
Relationships
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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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