Ren Shen Fu Zhu Tang (Ginseng and Prepared Aconite Decoction)

Ren Shen Fu Zhu Tang is a classical Chinese herbal formula traditionally used to restore vital energy and support yang circulation in cases of severe energy depletion. The blend combines ginseng, prepared aconite (processed to reduce toxicity), and alisma macrocarpum-like ingredients to bolster immune function and improve circulation of vital energy and blood.

Usage and Dosage

Ingredients: Ginseng (Ren Shen), prepared aconite (Fu Zi, processed, skin and 'navel' removed), and blue indigo (Qing Dai), each 15 g.

How to take: Grind the herbs into a powder the size of sesame seeds. Each dose is 6 g, simmer in 150 mL water. Add 1 leaf of mulberry (楮叶) cut, boil down to 100 mL, strain and warm to drink. Take 2 times daily, once at night and once in the morning.

Functions and Indications

Functions: Augments qi and restores yang,救脱 (relieves collapse).

Indications: Conditions of severe yang collapse, kidney waning, excessive thirst, emaciation of the legs and knees, and turbid or pale urination.

Variant Formula 1

Source: From the Revised and Expanded Zhen Wei Ji Sheng Fang (Zhong Ding Yan Shi Ji Sheng Fang).

Alternate name: Zuan Jue An Chan Tang (from Ye’s Gynecology Secret Prescriptions).

Ingredients: 15 g ginseng, 30 g prepared aconite (processed, skin and navel removed).

Administration: Grind into powder, divide into three doses. Each dose uses 300 mL water with 10 slices fresh ginger; simmer to 240 mL, strain, and take on an empty stomach, warm.

Functions: Restores yang, augments qi, and rescues collapse.

Variant Formula 2

Source: From the Sheng Yi De Xiao Fang (An Effective Medical Prescriptions), Volume 6.

Ingredients: Ginseng, processed aconite (skin and navel removed), and nutmeg (slightly roasted and cracked).

Administration: Grind into a powder. Take 6 g per dose with 230 mL water, add 7 slices fresh ginger and 2 jujubes (dates); take on an empty stomach.

Indications: Diarrhea with fresh blood, loose stools with instability, and tendencies toward a collapse state.

Note: This article summarizes traditional formulations. Do not self-prescribe herbs, especially those containing aconite, which can be toxic if misused.