Suan Zao Ren Tang (Sour Jujube Decoction)

Suan Zao Ren Tang (酸棗仁湯) nourishes Liver blood, calms the spirit and clears deficiency heat; the principal formula for insomnia and irritability from Liver-blood deficiency with deficiency heat.

Suān Zǎo Rén Tāng  ·  酸棗仁湯  ·  Sour Jujube Decoction

English Name

Sour Jujube Decoction

Classical Source

Jin Gui Yao Lue, c. 220 CE

Ingredients

Actions & Functions

  • Nourishes the blood and calms the spirit
  • Clears heat and relieves irritability

Indications

Liver-blood deficiency with deficiency heat: insomnia, irritability, palpitations, night sweats, dizziness and a dry mouth and throat.

Tongue & Pulse

Tongue: red with a thin, dry coat. Pulse: wiry or thin and rapid.

Modifications

With marked yin deficiency, add Sheng Di and Mai Men Dong; with night sweats, add Wu Wei Zi.

Cautions & Contraindications

Use with caution in insomnia from phlegm-heat or food stagnation.

About Attilio

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

Check Also

PubMed research

Acupuncture Shows Sustained Benefits for Chronic Daily Headache Prevention in Adults, Meta-Analysis Finds

Research summary (Acupuncture): Utility of Acupuncture Therapy for Adult Chronic Daily Headache Prophylaxis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. - Medical science monitor : international medical journal of experimental and clinical research, 2026.