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Gui Zhi Tang (桂枝湯), ‘Cinnamon Twig Decoction’, is one of the most important formulas in Chinese medicine. It releases the exterior in wind-cold patterns where the person is sweating, and harmonises the nutritive (ying) and defensive (wei) qi.
English Name
Cinnamon Twig Decoction
Classical Source
Shang Han Lun (Discussion of Cold Damage), c. 220 CE
Ingredients
- Gui Zhi (cinnamon twig) 9g – chief
- Bai Shao (white peony) 9g – deputy
- Sheng Jiang (fresh ginger) 9g – assistant
- Da Zao (jujube) 4 pieces – assistant
- Zhi Gan Cao (honey-fried licorice) 6g – envoy
Actions & Functions
- Releases the exterior and dispels wind-cold
- Harmonises the nutritive (ying) and defensive (wei) qi
Indications
Exterior wind-cold from deficiency: fever and chills with sweating, aversion to wind, headache, a stiff neck, and a stuffy nose; also used for spontaneous sweating from ying-wei disharmony.
Tongue & Pulse
Tongue: thin, white coat. Pulse: floating and moderate (or floating and weak).
Modifications
With a pronounced stiff neck, add Ge Gen (Gui Zhi Jia Ge Gen Tang). With wheezing, add Hou Po and Xing Ren.
Cautions & Contraindications
Contraindicated in exterior wind-heat and in interior heat patterns. Avoid alcohol, cold and greasy food during treatment.
