This formula was developed by Li Gao (a.k.a. Li Dong-yuan) and first appears in ‘Treatise on the Differentiation of Endogenous and Exogenous Injuries’ (nei wai shang bian huo lun), 1247. His other major work, published two years later ‘Treatise on the Spleen and Stomach’ (pi wei lun), elaborates on the uses of this formula with reference to Spleen and Stomach deficiency syndromes.

The formula was originally intended for the treatment of febrile illness due to Qi deficiency and organ prolapse as well as the basic syndrome of Spleen and Stomach Qi deficiency. However, it’s clinical applications have since been broadened to include a wide variety of disorders that centre on Spleen deficiency.

Considering the crucial role of the Spleen in TCM, this formula has great clinical importance. A recent study in Japan showed a successful clinical outcome in around 75-80% of cases when it was used in the treatment of children, regardless of the presentation.

It is also used as the basis for treating Yin Fire syndromes, characterised by Heat or Fire due to Spleen Qi (or Spleen Yang) deficiency. In these disorders there are marked signs of Heat (e.g. fever, sweating, thirst, slightly rapid pulse) together with the normal features of Spleen deficiency (fatigue, weakness, poor appetite, weak pulse).

This formula has recently been found efficacious in the treatment of auto-immune disorders and allergies.

• Traditionally used in Chinese medicine to replenish Qi
• Traditionally used in Chinese medicine to lift the sunken middle-qi
• Traditionally used in Chinese medicine to tonify spleen
• Traditionally used in Chinese medicine to warm and nourish stomach