SHEN QI DA BU WAN (BP044) Codonopsis & Astragalus Complex

Indication

This is a modern formulation that combines two premier Qi tonifying herbs, based on scientific research together with traditional principles of use. The two herbs, Astragalus root (huang qi) and Codonopsis root (dang shen), have been extensively studied in contemporary China, the findings serving to confirm and clarify the nature of their actions as described in the traditional literature.

Astragalus (huang qi) was first recorded in ‘Shen Nong’s Materia Medica’ (Shen nong ben cao jing), circa 200 CE, under the heading of ‘Superior Class Herbs’. This class of medicinal substances are non-toxic, life nourishing and conducive to longevity. Codonopsis (dang shen), however, first appeared in ‘Encountering the Sources of the Materia Medica’ (ben jing feng yuan) by Zhang Lu (a.k.a. Zhang Lu-yu, Zhang Shi-wan), 1670.

Both herbs benefit the middle Jiao by tonifying the Spleen-Stomach Qi and raising the Yang Qi. However, the actions of Codonopsis root (dang shen) are somewhat milder than those of Astragalus root (huang qi), especially in raising the Yang Qi. The combined actions of these two herbal ingredients provide a medium strength Qi tonic that may readily be used in combination with other more complex formulas, without the risk of giving the patient too many different herbs.

Alternatively, it may be used as a stand-alone tonic for the Qi, which may safely be taken long term without the potential adverse reactions that are associated with the consumption of red ginseng root (or extracts of red ginseng).

The synergistic actions of the herbs are as follows:

Astragalus root (huang qi): tonifies the Qi, tonifies the Spleen Qi and raises the Yang, tonifies the defensive Qi and stabilises the Exterior, promotes the discharge of pus and promotes tissue regeneration, promotes diuresis and alleviates oedema.

Codonopsis root (dang shen): tonifies the middle Jiao (Spleen-Stomach Qi), tonifies the Lung Qi, regenerates the Body Fluids.

Indications:

General debility due to chronic illness

Chronic fatigue syndrome

Age related disorders

Postpartum weakness

Signs & Symptoms:

Fatigue, muscular weakness

Poor appetite, emaciation

Pale complexion

Exertional dyspnoea (shortness of breath on mild exertion)

Hyperhidrosis (sweating on mild exertion, or spontaneous sweating)

Frequent upper respiratory infections

Nocturia

Pale tongue with a thin white coat

Weak pulse

Combinations –

Chronic fatigue syndrome:

BA JI YIN YANG WAN

BU ZHONG YI QI WAN

SHI QUAN DA BU WAN

YU PING FENG SAN

ZHUANG YANG YI JING WAN

QI BAO MEI RAN DAN (Jia Wei)

TAO HONG SI WU WAN

ENERGY TONIC Formula

Leukopenia:

BA JI YIN YANG WAN

BU ZHONG YI QI WAN

QI BAO MEI RAN DAN (Jia Wei)

Poor digestion, abdominal bloating and loose stools:

JIAN PI WAN

Poor digestion, epigastric discomfort and fullness, belching, nausea:

BAO HE WAN

SHEN LING BAI ZHU SAN

TCM Syndromes: Qi deficiency (general),

TCM Actions: Tonifies the Qi, strengthens the Lung & Spleen, strengthens and stabilises the defensive Qi,