Gan Mai Da Zao Tang (Licorice, Wheat and Jujube Decoction)

Gan Mai Da Zao Tang (甘麥大棗湯) nourishes the Heart and calms the spirit and harmonises the middle burner; the classic gentle formula for ‘restless organ disorder’ (zang zao) with emotional lability.

Gān Mài Dà Zǎo Tāng  ·  甘麥大棗湯  ·  Licorice, Wheat and Jujube Decoction

English Name

Licorice, Wheat and Jujube Decoction

Classical Source

Jin Gui Yao Lue, c. 220 CE

Ingredients

Actions & Functions

  • Nourishes the Heart and calms the spirit
  • Harmonises the middle and relieves agitation

Indications

Restless organ disorder (zang zao): emotional instability, frequent crying or sadness without clear cause, restlessness, disturbed sleep, and frequent yawning – often around the menopause or in nervous exhaustion.

Tongue & Pulse

Tongue: red with little coat. Pulse: thin and rapid (or weak).

Modifications

Combined with other spirit-calming or yin-nourishing formulas as needed.

Cautions & Contraindications

Very gentle and food-like; well tolerated.

About Attilio

Doctor of Chinese medicine, acupuncture expert and author of My Fertility Guide and My Pregnancy Guide.

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