Zhen Gan Xi Feng Tang
Star镇肝熄风汤 (Sedate the Liver and Extinguish Wind Decoction)
Source: Yi Xue Zhong Zhong Can Xi Lu (Records of Heart-Felt Experiences in Medicine) — Zhang Xichun (Qing-Contemporary, 1918)
Last updated July 22, 2026
Description
Zhen Gan Xi Feng Tang (Sedate the Liver and Extinguish Wind Decoction) treats Liver Wind arising from Liver-Kidney Yin deficiency with Yang rising. Developed by Zhang Xichun, it incorporates heavy, descending minerals and shells to anchor rising Yang, alongside Yin tonics to address the root cause. It is the standard formula for stroke (apoplexy) and hypertensive encephalopathy in TCM.
Composition
| Herb | Amount | % | Role | Function |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Niu Xi | 30g | 17.39% | Jun (Chief) | Directs blood downward and nourishes the Liver and Kidney |
|
Dai Zhe Shi
Decoct first (crush).
|
30g | 17.39% | Chen (Deputy) | Heavy mineral; weighs down and descends rebellious qi and yang |
|
Long Gu
Decoct first (crush).
|
15g | 8.7% | Chen (Deputy) | Settles and anchors the yang, calms the spirit |
|
Mu Li
Decoct first (crush).
|
15g | 8.7% | Chen (Deputy) | Settles yang, softens hardness, anchors the spirit |
|
Gui Ban
Decoct first (crush).
|
15g | 8.7% | Chen (Deputy) | Nourishes yin and anchors ascendant yang |
| Bai Shao | 15g | 8.7% | Chen (Deputy) | Nourishes yin and blood, softens the Liver |
| Xuan Shen | 15g | 8.7% | Zuo (Assistant) | Nourishes yin and clears deficiency fire |
| Tian Men Dong | 15g | 8.7% | Zuo (Assistant) | Nourishes yin and moistens dryness |
| Chuan Lian Zi | 6g | 3.48% | Zuo (Assistant) | Drains the Liver and moves constrained qi |
|
Mai Ya
Use raw (sheng) barley sprout.
|
6g | 3.48% | Zuo (Assistant) | Soothes the Liver and harmonizes the Stomach |
| Yin Chen (Hao) | 6g | 3.48% | Zuo (Assistant) | Clears and vents constrained Liver heat |
| Gan Cao | 4.5g | 2.61% | Shi (Envoy) | Harmonizes the formula and protects the Stomach |
Total weight: 168g
Preparation
Decoct mineral and shell herbs first for 20–30 minutes before adding remaining herbs. Cook total 40–45 minutes. Take warm.
Dosage
Decoction: 1 dose/day in 2–3 doses. For acute conditions, may be taken every 6–8 hours.
Conditions Addressed
Related Formulas
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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