Blue Poppy Four Gentlemen Decoction
Si Jun Zi Tang
Primary Traditional Functions
Tonifies the Qi, strengthens the Spleen, and supports digestion and assimilation
Action
Greatly tonifies the source or original qi, strengthens the spleen, nourishes the stomach to aid digestion and assimilation, and dries dampness
Pattern
spleen qi vacuity
Tongue
An enlarged tongue with teeth-marks on its edges and/or cracks in its center
Pulse
A forceless, possibly fine pulse
Description
Ren Shen is the sovereign medicinal in this formula. It is sweet, warm, and greatly supplements the source or original qi. It also fortifies the spleen and nourishes the stomach. Bai Zhu is the minister. It is bitter, warm, and fortifies the spleen and dries dampness. The assistant is Fu Ling which is sweet and bland, seeps dampness and fortifies the spleen. Used together, Fu Ling and Bai Zhu's ability to fortify the spleen and eliminate dampness are strengthened, thus promoting movement and transformation. The messenger or guide in this formula is mix-fried Gan Cao. It is sweet, warm, and regulates the center.
Traditional Indications
Fatigue, lack of strength, dizziness standing up, easy bruising, shortness of breath, possible lack of appetite, possible loose stools, possible constipation
Typical symptoms include:
- Fatigue, weakness in the limbs
- Loose stools or diarrhea
- Low, soft voice, reduced appetite
- Pale complexion
- Spleen Qi deficiency
Modern Clinical Applications
Si Jun Zi Tang is the foundational formula for tonifying Qi, especially Spleen Qi. Traditionally, it addresses symptoms of poor appetite, fatigue, and loose stools associated with Spleen Qi deficiency. In modern practice, it is widely applied for digestive disorders, chronic fatigue, and post-illness recovery where Qi support is required. Supports gastrointestinal weakness, indigestion, chronic gastritis, anemia, nausea and vomiting, diarrhea, etc.
Commonly applied in contemporary use for:
- Chronic gastritis, peptic ulcers
- Chronic fatigue, general weakness
- Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) with loose stools
- Post-illness recovery with poor digestion
Typical Usage
3 capsules per day or as directed by your wellness coach.
Potency 10:1, 120 vegicaps per bottle.
Ingredients:
Ren Shen (Radix Ginseng) 136 mg, Bai Zhu (Rhizoma Atractylodis Macrocephalae) 136 mg, Fu Ling (Poria) 136 mg, mix-fried Gan Cao (Radix Glycyrrhizae) 92 mg
Other Ingredients:
Vegetarian capsule (hypromellose - alternative to animal gelatin).