Shu Di Huang-cooked Rehmannia root-Radix Rehmanniae

Shu Di Huang, also known as Rehmanniae Radix Praeparata or Prepared Rehmannia Root, is a sweet and slightly warm herb used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) to tonify the blood, nourish Yin, and replenish Essence. It is a key herb in formulas for blood deficiency, Kidney Yin deficiency, and conditions involving premature aging, menstrual disorders, and chronic fatigue. Shu Di Huang is deeply nourishing and especially effective in long-term deficiency patterns.
Functions & Benefits
Tonifies the BloodShu Di Huang is one of the most important herbs for enriching the blood. It is commonly used in cases of blood deficiency with symptoms such as dizziness, pallor, palpitations, dry skin, and menstrual irregularities. It supports the Heart, Liver, and Spleen in the generation of healthy blood.
Nourishes YinThis herb also nourishes Yin, particularly of the Kidneys and Liver. It is used for symptoms such as night sweats, tidal fever, low back pain, and chronic thirst due to Yin Deficiency. It helps restore moisture and cooling to the body in long-term deficiency heat patterns.
Replenishes Essence & Tonifies the MarrowShu Di Huang strengthens the Kidneys and replenishes Jing (Essence), which is the basis of vitality and growth. It is used for developmental delays in children, weakness of the bones, tinnitus, premature graying, and reproductive issues such as infertility or impotence.
Supports Menstrual and Reproductive HealthBecause of its strong blood-nourishing and Essence-tonifying properties, Shu Di Huang is frequently used in formulas for irregular menstruation, delayed cycles, scanty flow, or postpartum weakness.
Indications
Dizziness, fatigue, and pale complexion from blood deficiencyTinnitus, back pain, and night sweats from Kidney Yin DeficiencyDelayed development or premature aging due to Essence DeficiencyScanty or irregular menstruation, infertility, or postmenstrual weaknessChronic thirst or low-grade fever from Yin and blood depletion
Tongue & Pulse Diagnosis in TCM
Tongue: Pale and tender in blood deficiency; red and dry with little coating in Yin DeficiencyPulse: Thin and weak in blood deficiency; thin and rapid in Yin Deficiency
Common TCM Patterns Treated by Shu Di Huang
Shu Di Huang treats Liver Blood Deficiency, Kidney Yin Deficiency, Jing (Essence) Deficiency, and Heart Blood Deficiency. These patterns often involve fatigue, dizziness, night sweats, menstrual disorders, or premature aging.
Precautions & Contraindications
Not suitable for patients with Spleen Qi Deficiency and dampness, as it is rich and cloyingUse with caution in cases of abdominal fullness, bloating, or loose stoolsMay cause heaviness or indigestion if not balanced with Qi-moving herbsAvoid in acute infections or excess heat conditions
Conclusion
Shu Di Huang is a deeply nourishing tonic that enriches blood, nourishes Yin, and replenishes Essence. It is ideal for chronic deficiency patterns involving fatigue, reproductive weakness, menstrual irregularities, and premature aging. Its rich, heavy nature makes it best suited for cold-type or long-term deficiency conditions that require steady rebuilding of fundamental substances.