Gui Zhi Jia Shao Yao Tang  桂枝加芍药汤
Cinnamon Twig and Peony Decoction

Tradition:


TCM

Source / Author:


Discussion of Cold Induced Disorders (Shang Han Lun) C.220

Herb Name

Gui Zhi (Cinnamon twig)
Bai Shao
(White Peony)
Sheng Jiang (fresh Ginger)
Da Zao
(Jujube fruit)
Zhi Gan Cao
(Fried Licorice)

Latin


Cinnamomum cassia
Paeonia lacti
flora
Zingiber o
fficinale
Ziziphus jujuba
Glycyrrhiza uralensis honey-fried

Amount


9 grams
18 grams
9 grams

12 pieces
6 grams


Preparation:


Decoct for 20 minutes in 6 cups of water

Function:


Clears Wind and Cold, Warms the Stomach, Stops Spasms and Pain

Use:


Fever, Perspiration, aversion to Cold
1. Abdominal fullness, distention and pain
2. Abdominal Cramping
3. Diarrhea

4. Enteritis
5. Food Poisoning

Dose:


a cupful twice daily.

Cautions:


1. Not used for exterior Wind-Cold with Interior Heat (Fever, sore throat and rapid pulse)

Modifications:


1. Cough or shortness of breath add Apricot kernel Xing Ren
2. Profuse sweating, increase Peony Bai Shao, and reduce Cinnamon twig and fresh Ginger

Similar Formulas:
This is the same formula as Gui Zhi Tang but with the proportions of the medicines changed.

This was traditionally used for side effects from improper purging.
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