Balance between Giving and Receiving In many classic formulas, including the famousGui Zhi Tang, we see a specific pair of herbs recurring again and again:Gui Zhi(Cinnamon branch) andBai Shao(White Peony). […]
Read moreJin Gui Shen Qi Wan vs. You Gui Wan
Stoking the Internal StoveWhen we talk about “Yang” in TCM, we mean the warmth and activity in the body. The Kidneys are considered the source of this warmth. Supporting Kidney […]
Read moreGe Gen Tang: Freedom for Neck and Shoulders
Comfort with StiffnessEveryone knows the feeling: a stiff neck and tense shoulders, perhaps after a day spent in a draft or air conditioning. In traditional Chinese medicine, this is seen […]
Read moreYu Ping Feng San: The Jade Windbreak
Natural Support for Immune SystemIn times of changing seasons, a well-functioning immune system is essential. In traditional Chinese medicine, we speak of “Wei Qi,” or the protective energy that surrounds […]
Read moreDu Huo Ji Sheng Tang vs. Juan Bi Tang
Support for the Musculoskeletal SystemChinese herbalism offers various strategies for maintaining joint flexibility and comfortable movement. The choice of the right formula depends on the nature of the discomfort. Two […]
Read moreHuang Lian Jie Du Tang: Triple Cooling
Restoring Balance to Internal HeatIn TCM philosophy, the body can become unbalanced by an excess of “heat” (yang). This can manifest as restlessness, redness, or a warm sensation.Huang Lian Jie […]
Read moreThe Golden Combination in Si Wu Tang
Shu Di Huang en Dang Gui: Rust en BewegingSi Wu Tang, or the “Decoction of Four Substances,” is the basic formula for supporting female balance and blood quality. The power […]
Read moreXiao Chai Hu Tang vs. Si Ni San: Two Paths to Harmony
The Difference in BalanceWithin Chinese herbalism, there are specific formulas aimed at “harmonizing” the body. This is applied when energy doesn’t flow properly and blockages arise. Two well-known formulas for […]
Read moreWen Dan Tang: Courage and the Stomach
The Relationship Between Gallbladder and NauseaWen Dan Tang(“Heat the Gallbladder Decoction”) is a fascinating formula that bridges the gap between physical complaints (nausea) and psychological complaints (anxiety/indecisiveness). The Pattern: Gallbladder-Stomach […]
Read moreBu Zhong Yi Qi Tang vs. Shen Ling Bai Zhu San
Lift Up or Moisture Dry?Both formulas are known to strengthen the spleen qi. However, a TCM practitioner would never confuse them, as their “direction” is opposite. Bu Zhong Yi Qi […]
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