Shu Di Huang-Rehmannia cured root tuber-Rehmannia glutinosa

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 Blood
Shu 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 Yin
This 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 Marrow
Shu 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 Health
Because 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 deficiency
Tinnitus, back pain, and night sweats from Kidney Yin Deficiency
Delayed development or premature aging due to Essence Deficiency
Scanty or irregular menstruation, infertility, or postmenstrual weakness
Chronic 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 Deficiency
Pulse: 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 cloying
Use with caution in cases of abdominal fullness, bloating, or loose stools
May cause heaviness or indigestion if not balanced with Qi-moving herbs
Avoid 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.