Zhu Ye Shi Gao Tang
Star竹叶石膏汤 (Lophatherum and Gypsum Decoction)
Source: Shang Han Lun — Zhang Zhongjing (Han, 220)
Last updated August 30, 2026
Description
Zhu Ye Shi Gao Tang (Lophatherum and Gypsum Decoction) treats the aftermath of serious febrile disease — residual heat combined with Qi and Yin deficiency. Unlike Bai Hu Tang for pure excess heat, this formula addresses the complex state of lingering heat with concurrent deficiency. It clears heat, tonifies Qi, nourishes Yin, harmonizes Stomach, and descends rebellious Qi.
Composition
| Herb | Amount | % | Role | Function |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dan Zhu Ye | 9g | 10.34% | Jun (Chief) | Clears heat and eliminates irritability |
|
Shi Gao
Decoct first (crush).
|
30g | 34.48% | Jun (Chief) | Clears lingering heat from the qi level |
| Ren Shen | 6g | 6.9% | Chen (Deputy) | Tonifies the qi damaged by heat |
| Mai Men Dong | 15g | 17.24% | Chen (Deputy) | Nourishes yin and generates fluids |
| Ban Xia | 9g | 10.34% | Zuo (Assistant) | Directs rebellious qi downward and stops vomiting |
| Gan Cao | 3g | 3.45% | Shi (Envoy) | Harmonizes the formula and protects the middle |
| Jing Mi | 15g | 17.24% | Shi (Envoy) | Protects the Stomach and generates fluids |
Total weight: 66g
Dui Yao — Core Herb Pairs
The classical two-herb combinations at the heart of this formula, as recorded on the herbs' own pages — each pair has an action neither herb has alone.
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 cool (-1.07)
From 100% of the weighed grams.
Grams by band: cold 62%, neutral 21%, warm 17%.
Taste
- pungent 28%
- sweet 55%
- bitter 12%
- bland 5%
From 100% of the weighed grams.
Channels reached
- Stomach 93%
- Lung 90%
- Spleen 55%
- Heart 38%
- Small intestine 10%
- Kidney 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 with rice (Jing Mi) until done. Add remaining herbs and simmer 20 more minutes. Strain and take cool.
Dosage
Decoction: 1 dose/day. Take cool or at room temperature. Continue 3–7 days post-illness.
Conditions Addressed
Related Formulas
Relationships
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Similar Formulas by composition
Match score combines dosage-weighted composition (cosine, 70%) with shared-herb overlap (Jaccard, 30%).
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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