Herb Tonic herbs for Qi Deficiency

Tai Zi Shen

Crown prince ginseng | 太子参

Pseudostellaria heterophylla

TCM Properties

Temperature

Neutral

Taste

Bitter, Sweet

Organ Affinity

Spleen, Lungs

Parts Used

Dried root and Rhizome

TCM Actions & Uses

Traditional Chinese Medicine properties and applications of Tai Zi Shen

Traditional Actions

Tonify Qi
Strengthen the Spleen
Generate Body Fluids
Moisten the Lungs

Key TCM Concepts

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Tai Zi Shen belongs to the 'Tonic herbs for Qi Deficiency' category. Tonic herbs are used for patterns of Deficiency, when one lacks one of the 'Four Treasures' (Qi, Blood, Yin and Yang). Qi tonics are typically sweet and they tend to enter the Spleen and Lungs because these Organs are most involved with the production of Qi.

 

Furthermore Tai Zi Shen is Neutral in nature. This means that Tai Zi Shen typically doesn't affect the balance in your body. Balance between Yin and Yang is a key health concept in TCM. Eating too many "Hot" (Yang) ingredients can lead to an imbalance whereby one has a Yang Excess. The inverse is true as well: too many "Cold" (Yin) ingredients can lead to a Yin Excess. The Neutral nature of Tai Zi Shen means that you don't have to worry about that!

 

Tai Zi Shen also tastes Bitter and Sweet. The so-called 'Five Phases' theory in Chinese Medicine states that the taste of TCM ingredients is a key determinant of their action in the body. Bitter ingredients like Tai Zi Shen tends to have a cleansing action on the body by clearing Heat, drying Dampness and promoting elimination via urination or bowel movements. On the other hand Sweet ingredients tend to slow down acute reactions and detoxify the body. They also have a tonic effect because they replenish Qi and Blood.

 

The tastes of ingredients in TCM also determine what Organs and Meridians they target. As such Tai Zi Shen is thought to target the Spleen and the Lung. In TCM the Spleen assists with digestion, Blood coagulation and Fluids metabolism in the body. In addition to performing respiration, the Lungs are thought in TCM to be a key part of the production chain for Qi and the Body Fluids that nourish the body.

Common Applications

Loss of appetite Weakness after illness Excessive thirst Dry cough Fatigue Spontaneous sweating

Preparation & Dosage

Traditional and modern methods for preparing Tai Zi Shen

Traditional Preparation

Remove impurities, wash in hot water and dry.

Recommended Dosage

Note: The following information is provided for educational purposes only and is not meant to replace professional medical advice.

9 to 30 g

Safety & Contraindications

Important safety information and precautions for Tai Zi Shen

This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before using any herb or supplement.

Herb-Drug Interactions

Like many herbs, Tai Zi Shen may interact with certain medications. If you are taking any prescription medications, we recommend consulting with a healthcare provider knowledgeable in herb-drug interactions.

Related Educational Resources

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