Formula Composition

Zhi Zi

Dan Dou Chi

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King

Main ingredient

Deputy

Assists main

Formula Formulas that clear Qi-level Heat

Zhi Zi Chi Tang

栀子豉汤

Also known as:

Gardenia and Prepared Soybean Decoction

Formula Properties

Main Actions

Clears Heat
Alleviates restlessness and irritability

Historical Origin

Discussion of Cold Damage (220 AD)

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TCM Actions & Uses Formula Ingredients Contraindications

TCM Actions & Uses

Traditional Chinese Medicine properties and applications of Zhi Zi Chi Tang

Main Actions

Clears Heat

Alleviates restlessness and irritability

Key TCM Concepts

Zhi Zi Chi Tang is a 2-ingredient Chinese Medicine formula with Cape Jasmine Fruits (Zhi Zi) as a principal ingredient.

Invented in 220 AD, it belongs to the category of formulas that clear Qi-level Heat. Its main actions are: 1) clears Heat and 2) alleviates restlessness and irritability.

In Chinese Medicine health conditions are thought to arise due to "disharmonies" in the body as a system. These disharmonies are called "patterns" and the very purpose of herbal formulas is to fight them in order to restore the body's harmony.

From a Western Medicine standpoint, such patterns can give rise to a range of conditions such as insomnia, night terrors or neuroses for instance.

Ingredients in Zhi Zi Chi Tang

Detailed information about each herb in Zhi Zi Chi Tang and their roles

Kings

Deputies

Zhi Zi

Cape jasmine fruits

Temperature Cold

Taste Bitter

Organ Affinity Gallbladder, Heart, Lungs, Sanjiao, San Jiao (Triple Burner)

Parts Used Dried ripe fruit

Role in Zhi Zi Chi Tang

Zhi Zi is a bitter and cold herb that excels at clearing Stagnant Heat from the Triple Burner, Heart, Stomach, and Liver by directing it downward and eliminating it via the urine.

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Dan Dou Chi

Fermented soybeans

Temperature Cool

Taste Bitter, Pungent

Organ Affinity Lungs, Stomach

Parts Used Fermented preparation obtain from the ripe bean

Role in Zhi Zi Chi Tang

Dan Dou Chi supports the key herb by dispersing what remains of the Heat via the body's Exterior. Compared to the key herb, its cooling action is rather weak. Instead, its ability to disseminate stagnant Heat is derived from its power to dredge, vent, and spread.

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Safety & Contraindications

Important safety information and precautions for Zhi Zi Chi Tang

This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before using any TCM herbal formula.

Contraindications

Use with caution in patients with long-lasting Spleen Deficiency and loose stools.

Herb-Drug Interactions

Like many TCM formulas, Zhi Zi Chi Tang may interact with certain medications. If you are taking any prescription medications, we recommend consulting with a healthcare provider knowledgeable in herb-drug interactions.