Yuan Zhi-Polygala root-Polygala tenuifolia

Yuan Zhi, Polygala tenuifolia Root, is a well-known herb in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), primarily used to calm the Shen (spirit), improve memory and cognitive function, transform phlegm, and open the Heart orifices. It has been traditionally used to treat insomnia, forgetfulness, anxiety, palpitations, and emotional disturbances.

Yuan Zhi is classified as an herb that nourishes the Heart and calms the Shen, often included in formulas for individuals with restlessness, poor memory, or excessive mental activity. It is also used to clear phlegm accumulation in the brain, which can contribute to brain fog and emotional instability.

Functions & Benefits of Yuan Zhi in TCM

1. Calms the Shen & Nourishes the Heart

• Used for insomnia, palpitations, restlessness, and excessive thinking.
• Supports memory, focus, and cognitive function.
• Helps reduce emotional instability, nervousness, and excessive worrying.
• Often combined with Suan Zao Ren ( Ziziphus seed) and Bai Zi Ren (Biota seed) for calming effects.

2. Opens the Heart Orifices & Improves Mental Clarity 

• Helps with brain fog, difficulty concentrating, and forgetfulness.
• Clears phlegm misting the Heart and brain, a condition that can cause confusion, dull thinking, and mental fatigue.
• Used in cases of dementia and age-related cognitive decline.

3. Transforms Phlegm & Clears Lung Congestion 

• Treats cough with excessive phlegm and difficulty breathing.
• Can be used for chronic bronchitis, asthma, and lung infections.

4. Reduces Swelling & Promotes Healing 

• Used externally as a paste for boils, abscesses, and skin infections.

TCM Indications (Who Can Benefit from It?)

• People experiencing memory loss, forgetfulness, or poor concentration.
• Individuals with insomnia, dream-disturbed sleep, or anxiety.
• Those who feel mentally fatigued or overwhelmed by excessive thinking.
• Elderly individuals looking to support cognitive health and prevent decline.
• People suffering from phlegm-related conditions such as chronic cough or brain fog.

TCM Patterns Associated with Yuan Zhi

1. Heart and Kidney Disharmony 

• Symptoms: Insomnia, excessive dreams, palpitations, forgetfulness, dizziness.
• Formula: Weinsch Heart Peace– Nourishes Yin, clears Heat, calms the Shen.

2. Phlegm Misting the Heart Orifices 

• Symptoms: Brain fog, mental confusion, emotional instability, depression.
• Formula: Weinsch Open Head – Clears phlegm, opens the Heart orifices, improves focus.

3. Liver Qi Stagnation with Heart Shen Disturbance 

• Symptoms: Anxiety, irritability, excessive worrying, sleep disturbances.
• Formula: Weinsch Liver Calm  – Moves Liver Qi, calms the mind.

Common Herbal Formulas with Yuan Zhi

1. Weinsch Calm Burnout  – For forgetfulness, dizziness, and memory decline.
2. Weinsch Positive Mood – For emotional disturbances, anxiety, and mood swings.

How to Use Yuan Zhi

1. Herbal Tea 

• 5-10g of Yuan Zhi root, sliced and steeped in hot water for 10-15 minutes.
• Can be combined with Ginseng (Ren Shen), Suan Zao Ren, or Bai Zi Ren for better cognitive benefits.

2. Herbal Decoction 

• Used in combination with other herbs in traditional formulas for memory and Shen disturbances.

3. Powder or Capsule Form 

• Available as granules, pills, or extracts for convenient use.

4. External Application

• Can be ground into a powder and mixed with honey or water to apply on skin abscesses or swelling.

Precautions & Contraindications

• Not suitable for individuals with excess heat conditions (e.g., red tongue, rapid pulse).
• Avoid in cases of Yin Deficiency with Heat – Can overstimulate if not balanced with cooling herbs.
• Use with caution in pregnancy – Consult a TCM practitioner before use.
• Excessive consumption may cause irritability or overstimulation.

Lifestyle & Dietary Recommendations for Cognitive Support

✔ Eat Brain-Boosting Foods:

• Walnuts – Strengthens Kidney Jing and improves memory.
• Goji Berries – Supports Liver Blood and cognitive function.
• Longan Fruit – Calms the mind and nourishes Blood.
• Ginseng – Boosts mental energy and focus.

✔ Practice Mindfulness & Relaxation:

• Engage in Tai Chi, Qi Gong, or meditation to calm the Shen.
• Avoid excessive mental stress and overstimulation.

✔ Maintain a Healthy Sleep Routine:

• Sleep is essential for memory consolidation and mental clarity.
• Use herbal teas with Suan Zao Ren or Yuan Zhi to improve sleep quality.

Conclusion

Yuan Zhi is a powerful TCM herb that supports memory, focus, emotional stability, and Shen calming. It is particularly useful for individuals experiencing insomnia, forgetfulness, anxiety, and brain fog due to Heart and Kidney disharmony or phlegm obstruction.