Zhi Zi Bai Pi Tang (Gardenia and Phellodendron Decoction)

Zhi Zi Bai Pi Tang (梔子柏皮湯) clears heat and resolves damp-heat jaundice; for damp-heat jaundice where heat predominates but there is no marked abdominal fullness or constipation.

Zhī Zǐ Bǎi Pí Tāng  ·  梔子柏皮湯  ·  Gardenia and Phellodendron Decoction

English Name

Gardenia and Phellodendron Decoction

Classical Source

Shang Han Lun, c. 220 CE

Ingredients

Actions & Functions

  • Clears heat and resolves damp-heat jaundice

Indications

Heat-predominant damp-heat jaundice: bright yellow skin and eyes, fever, irritability, a dry mouth, and dark urine, without marked abdominal fullness or constipation.

Tongue & Pulse

Tongue: red with a yellow coat. Pulse: rapid.

Modifications

With constipation and fullness, use Yin Chen Hao Tang; with damp predominant, Yin Chen Wu Ling San.

Cautions & Contraindications

For heat-predominant jaundice; not for cold-damp (yin) jaundice.

About Attilio

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

Check Also

PubMed research

Network Meta-Analysis Finds Chinese Herbal Decoctions Improve Outcomes and Reduce Side Effects in Breast Cancer Treatment

Research summary (Traditional Chinese Medicine): Efficacy and safety of traditional Chinese medicine decoctions in breast cancer treatment: a network meta-analysis. - Frontiers in oncology, 2026.