Calm the Shen Formulas

安神定志丸 · Ān Shén Dìng Zhì Wán

An Shen Ding Zhi Wan

A classical formula for Heart Qi deficiency with timidity, insomnia, fright and palpitations.

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Last reviewed September 2026

Formula CategoryCalm the Shen Formulas

Primary PatternQi Deficiency

Primary FunctionTonify Qi, calm spirit, settle fright

Primary Therapeutic PrincipleTonify Heart Qi and calm the spirit

Main HerbsGinseng Root · Poria / Hoelen · Poria with Pine Root · Grassleaf Sweetflag Rhizome · Polygala Root · Dragon Bone / Fossilized Bone

Classical SourceClassical TCM formulary

Why This Formula?

Traditionally selected for Heart Qi deficiency with timidity and fright palpitations, rather than blood-deficiency insomnia, phlegm-heat, or Heart-Spleen deficiency.

Overview

What Is An Shen Ding Zhi Wan?

1. Ancient Classics Inheritance

An Shen Ding Zhi Wan (安神定志丸), or Calm the Spirit and Settle the Will Pill, is a classical Qing-dynasty formula from Cheng Guopeng’s Yi Xue Xin Wu (Medical Revelations). It belongs to the category of formulas that tonify Heart Qi, calm the spirit, and settle fright.

This formula addresses Heart Qi deficiency with Gallbladder timidity, a pattern in which the spirit has no residence and is easily startled. Typical signs include palpitations, anxiety, insomnia or dream-disturbed sleep, timidness, a tendency to be frightened by noises, a pale tongue, and a thin weak pulse.

Combining Ren Shen to tonify Heart and Gallbladder Qi, Fu Ling and Fu Shen to strengthen the Spleen, leach Dampness, and calm the spirit, Yuan Zhi and Shi Chang Pu to open the orifices, transform Phlegm, and restore communication between Heart and Kidney, and Long Chi (or Long Gu) to heavily settle the spirit and stop fright, An Shen Ding Zhi Wan replenishes the Qi that should house the Shen and is especially useful when fear and palpitations arise from deficiency rather than excess Fire.

2. Insomnia

Targeted symptoms: An Shen Ding Zhi Wan (Mind-Calming and Will-Stabilizing Pill) is highly effective for insomnia caused by Heart and Gallbladder Qi Deficiency. Patients typically experience frequent vivid dreams, easily waking up, palpitations, timidity, and general fatigue.
Expected benefits: It helps improve overall sleep quality and reduces the occurrence of vivid dreams and sudden awakenings. With consistent use, the internal energy stabilizes, leading to more restful, continuous sleep and an improved mental state.

3. Heart Palpitations

Targeted symptoms: It is traditionally used for palpitations where the patient feels an uneasy, fluttering heartbeat, shortness of breath, and a tendency to startle easily due to fright or stress.
Expected benefits: By boosting Qi and settling the mind, this formula helps regulate heart and gallbladder function. Clinical observations suggest it can effectively reduce both the frequency and severity of these uneasy heartbeats.

4. Neurosis and Anxiety

Targeted symptoms: As a supportive therapy for neurosis and general neurological stress, it is helpful for patients experiencing chronic anxiety, irrational fears, insomnia, and palpitations related to this specific energy deficiency.
Expected benefits: It acts as a supportive tool to help regulate nervous system functions, ease feelings of anxiety, and improve sleep, thereby significantly raising the patient's daily quality of life.

How It Works

Herb Composition (Sovereign / Minister / Assistant / Envoy)

1. King Herb: Fu Shen

Fu Shen (Poria with Hostwood) serves as the core "King" herb in the formula An Shen Ding Zhi Wan (Mind-Calming and Will-Stabilizing Pill).

Core Role: It specializes in soothing the heart and calming the mind.
Why it helps: Naturally sweet and neutral, it helps regulate the nervous system, eases tension, and promotes a deep sense of peace. It is highly effective for managing restlessness, palpitations, and insomnia by improving overall sleep quality and supporting healthy digestion.

2. Minister Herbs: Ren Shen and Yuan Zhi

These herbs support the King by deeply nourishing the body's energy and bridging communication between vital organs.

Ren Shen (Ginseng Root): A powerful herb for boosting vital energy (Qi). It strengthens the immune system and replenishes the energy needed to nourish the mind, combating mental exhaustion and emotional fragility caused by Qi and blood deficiency.
Yuan Zhi (Polygala Root): This warm herb helps clear mental fog and opens the mind's senses. Most importantly, it acts as a bridge between the heart and kidneys, ensuring their energies flow harmoniously to prevent insomnia, vivid dreams, and heart palpitations.

3. Assistant Herbs: Shi Chang Pu and Long Chi

This pair works together to awaken the mind while keeping the spirit firmly grounded.

Shi Chang Pu (Sweetflag Rhizome): A warm, aromatic herb that clears "phlegm" (which in TCM can mean mental cloudiness) and awakens the brain. It promotes healthy energy circulation and gently supports the digestive system.
Long Chi (Fossilized Teeth): Known for its heavy, mineral nature, this cool-natured ingredient acts like a physical anchor for the nervous system. It heavily settles fright, calms severe palpitations, and relieves extreme restlessness and anxiety.

4. Courier Herb: Zhu Sha

Zhu Sha (Cinnabar) acts as the messenger in this traditional formula.

Guiding Action: It specifically directs the healing properties of all the other herbs straight into the heart meridian to maximize their calming effects.
Traditional Safety Note: In classic TCM, it is used for its powerful ability to heavily settle the mind and relieve severe fright. Because it has inherent toxicity, it undergoes a very strict traditional water-based preparation process (water levigation) to reduce toxicity and ensure it is safe for clinical application.

Symptoms Traditionally Associated

Clinical Presentation in TCM

1. Pathogenesis Analysis (The Underlying Cause)

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), An Shen Ding Zhi Wan (Mind-Calming and Will-Stabilizing Pill) targets a condition known as Heart and Gallbladder Qi Deficiency.

The Heart Connection: When the heart lacks sufficient energy (Qi), the mind loses its resting place. This "malnourishment" of the spirit leads to palpitations and chronic insomnia.
The Gallbladder Connection: In TCM theory, the gallbladder governs courage and decision-making. When its energy is weak, a person becomes easily frightened, highly timid, and constantly on edge. These issues are often triggered or worsened by chronic emotional stress, anxiety, and mental overwork.

2. Benefits

The primary goal of this formula is to boost Qi, calm the spirit, and settle fright.

Nourishing Energy: Herbs like Ren Shen and Fu Shen rebuild the depleted energy in the heart and gallbladder, giving the nervous system the fuel it needs to relax.
Restoring Balance: While some herbs open the mind and clear mental fog, the heavy, settling ingredients act as an anchor, stopping panic and restoring a calm, steady state of mind.

3. Clinical Indications (What It is Used For)

Practitioners recommend this formula for individuals whose nervous systems are stuck in a state of high alert due to prolonged exhaustion and stress.

Key Symptoms: It is highly effective for chronic insomnia, frequent vivid dreams, heart palpitations, timidity, restlessness, and a tendency to startle easily.
Modern Applications: It is often used as a supportive therapy for modern conditions like chronic anxiety, severe mental stress, neurasthenia (nervous exhaustion), and general neurosis, helping patients regain their mental stability and find restful sleep.

Formula Analysis

The Mechanism in Classical Theory

1. Treating the Heart and Gallbladder Together

Interconnected roles: In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the heart governs the mind and spirit, while the gallbladder governs courage and decision-making. These two systems are closely linked. Weakness in heart energy (Qi) can make the gallbladder restless, and a weak gallbladder can unsettle the mind.
Targeted action: Herbs like Fu Shen (Poria with Hostwood) and Ren Shen (Ginseng Root) boost heart energy to calm the spirit. Meanwhile, herbs like Yuan Zhi (Polygala Root) and Long Chi (Fossilized Teeth) regulate gallbladder energy to settle the will. Treating them together restores their natural balance and achieves a deep, mind-calming effect.

2. Balancing Qi and Blood

Nourishing the source: Ren Shen (Ginseng Root) powerfully tonifies vital energy (Qi). In TCM theory, Qi and blood share the same source; when Qi is abundant, blood circulates smoothly, which deeply nourishes the mind.
Digestive support: Herbs like Fu Shen (Poria with Hostwood) do more than just calm the mind; they also support the spleen (the body's energy-producing center). This promotes the healthy generation of Qi and blood, ensuring the nervous system stays nourished and stable.

3. Combining Heavy Settling with Gentle Clearing

Heavy and grounding: Mineral-based ingredients like Long Chi (Fossilized Teeth) and Zhu Sha (Cinnabar) act as physical anchors. They quickly stabilize a distressed mind, relieving fright, palpitations, and severe insomnia.
Light and opening: Aromatic herbs like Yuan Zhi (Polygala Root) and Shi Chang Pu (Sweetflag Rhizome) gently clear mental fog and promote healthy energy flow to awaken the brain. This dynamic combination of grounding the spirit while clearing the mind enhances the formula's overall calming power.

How This Formula Compares

Clinical Comparison Table

Compare	An Shen Ding Zhi Wan	Suan Zao Ren Tang	Wen Dan Tang	Gui Pi Tang
Primary Function	Tonify Qi, calm spirit, settle fright	Nourish Blood, calm the spirit, clear heat	Regulate Qi, resolve phlegm, clear Gallbladder, harmonize Stomach	Tonify Qi and Blood, strengthen Spleen, nourish the Heart
Formula Category	Calm the Shen Formulas	Calm the Shen Formulas	Phlegm-Resolving Formulas	Qi-Tonifying Formulas
Typical TCM Pattern	Qi Deficiency	Blood Deficiency	Phlegm-Dampness	Qi Deficiency
Main Conditions	Insomnia, Anxiety Restlessness, Palpitations	Insomnia, Anxiety Restlessness, Dry Mouth & Throat, Night Sweats	Insomnia, Anxiety Restlessness, Nausea, Dizziness & Vertigo	Insomnia, Fatigue & Low Energy, Poor Appetite, Anxiety Restlessness, Irregular Menstruation
Main Herbs	Ginseng Root · Poria / Hoelen · Poria with Pine Root · Grassleaf Sweetflag Rhizome · Polygala Root · Dragon Bone / Fossilized Bone	Sour Jujube Seed · Poria / Hoelen · Anemarrhena Rhizome · Chuanxiong Rhizome · Licorice Root	Pinellia Rhizome · Bamboo Shavings · Immature Bitter Orange · Tangerine Peel · Poria / Hoelen · Licorice Root	Ginseng Root · Astragalus Root · White Atractylodes Rhizome · Poria / Hoelen · Sour Jujube Seed · Longan Aril · Aucklandia / Costus Root · Chinese Angelica Root · Polygala Root · Honey-fried Licorice
Classical Source	Classical TCM formulary	Jin Gui Yao Lue (Zhang Zhongjing, Eastern Han)	Classical TCM formulary	Ji Sheng Fang (Yan Yonghe, Song dynasty)

How to tell them apart

An Shen Ding Zhi Wan, Suan Zao Ren Tang, Wen Dan Tang and Gui Pi Tang calm the spirit. Suan Zao Ren Tang nourishes blood for Yin-blood deficiency insomnia; Wen Dan Tang transforms phlegm-heat for Gallbladder-Stomach disharmony; Gui Pi Tang tonifies Heart and Spleen. An Shen Ding Zhi Wan tonifies Heart Qi and settles fright for timidity, insomnia and palpitations from Heart Qi deficiency.

For educational reference only, based on traditional pattern differentiation — not a substitute for professional advice.

Clinical Modifications

Clinical Modifications for An Shen Ding Zhi Wan

1. For Heart Blood Deficiency

Targeted symptoms: When a patient shows clear signs of heart blood deficiency (such as pale complexion or dizziness alongside anxiety).
Customization: Practitioners often add Dang Gui (Angelica Root) and Shu Di Huang (Prepared Rehmannia Root) to the base formula of An Shen Ding Zhi Wan (Mind-Calming and Will-Stabilizing Pill).
How it works: Dang Gui nourishes and invigorates the blood, while Shu Di Huang deeply replenishes Yin and blood essence. Together, they enhance the formula's ability to nourish the heart and calm the mind, making it ideal for those lacking both energy (Qi) and blood.

2. For Phlegm-Heat Disturbance

Targeted symptoms: If the patient experiences internal heat and "phlegm" symptoms, such as a feeling of chest tightness, a bitter taste in the mouth, and marked irritability.
Customization: Cooling herbs like Huang Lian (Coptis Rhizome) and Zhu Ru (Bamboo Shavings) are added.
How it works: Huang Lian powerfully clears heat and dries dampness, while Zhu Ru clears heat from the stomach and lungs to dissolve phlegm. This combination allows the formula to calm the mind while actively clearing out irritating internal heat.

3. For Liver Qi Stagnation

Targeted symptoms: For individuals whose emotional distress is linked to stagnant liver energy, causing mood swings, feelings of depression, and a sensation of fullness or tightness in the chest and ribs.
Customization: Herbs like Chai Hu (Bupleurum Root) and Yu Jin (Turmeric Root Tuber) are included.
How it works: Chai Hu helps to soothe the liver and promote the smooth flow of Qi, while Yu Jin invigorates the blood and relieves emotional blockages. Adding these ensures the formula addresses the emotional root of the imbalance.

Modern Research

What the Science Suggests

1. Pharmacological Studies

Nervous system regulation: Modern research indicates that the ingredients in An Shen Ding Zhi Wan effectively regulate the nervous system.
Key mechanisms: Polysaccharides found in Fu Shen (Poria with Hostwood) are shown to support immune and neurological function. Ginsenosides in Ren Shen (Ginseng Root) help regulate the central nervous system and improve the body's natural stress response. Furthermore, aromatic herbs like Yuan Zhi (Polygala Root) and Shi Chang Pu (Sweetflag Rhizome) appear to influence the release and transmission of neurotransmitters, supporting their traditional mind-calming effects.

2. Clinical Efficacy Observations

Proven track record: Numerous clinical studies have observed the effectiveness of this formula in managing psychological and sleep-related issues tied to Heart and Gallbladder Qi Deficiency.
Measured improvements: Researchers noting patient outcomes report high effectiveness rates for symptoms like chronic insomnia and heart palpitations. By tracking sleep quality, psychological well-being, and symptom severity scores, studies show that patients generally experience noticeable improvements in their daily quality of life.

3. Dosage Form Improvements

Modernizing tradition: As pharmaceutical technology advances, researchers are actively working to improve how An Shen Ding Zhi Wan is delivered to patients.
New formats: Beyond traditional honey pills and modern concentrated granules, scientists are exploring new formats like capsules and dropping pills. These modern methods aim to increase the active ingredients' stability and bioavailability (how well the body absorbs them), providing patients with more convenient and effective options.

Safety

Safety Considerations

1. Cinnabar Dosage and Dietary Restrictions

Cinnabar is toxic and must be used strictly within the prescribed dosage, generally 0.1–0.5 g per dose in pills or powders. Avoid excessive use to prevent mercury poisoning. During treatment, eat a light diet and avoid spicy, greasy, stimulating foods and alcohol, which may reduce efficacy or increase adverse reactions.

2. Special Populations

Pregnant women should use Anshen Dingzhi Pills cautiously, as some ingredients may affect the fetus. Children should take them only under medical supervision with age- and condition-appropriate dosing. Older adults and people with weak constitutions should closely monitor their reactions and promptly report any discomfort to a doctor.

Available Products

Where to Get It

Hoi Tin An Shen Ding Zhi Ke Li Extract Granules

HJMEDICAL Hoi Tin An Shen Ding Zhi Wan (Calm the Spirit and Settle the Will Formula) 5:1 Concentrated Granules $37.45

HJMEDICAL Hoi Tin Suan Zao Ren Tang (Sour Jujube Decoction) 5:1 Concentrated Granules $47.19

HJMEDICAL Nong's Gui Pi Tang (Restore the Spleen Decoction) 5:1 Concentrated Granules $59.81

Nong's Suan Zao Ren Tang Extract Granules

HJMEDICAL Nong's Suan Zao Ren Tang (Sour Jujube Seed Decoction) 5:1 Concentrated Granules $127.22

HJMEDICAL Hoi Tin Gui Pi Tang (Restore the Spleen Decoction) 5:1 Concentrated Granules $31.89

HJMEDICAL Hoi Tin Wen Dan Tang (Warm the Gallbladder Decoction) 5:1 Concentrated Granules $24.93

HJMEDICAL Nong's Wen Dan Tang (Bamboo & Hoelen Combination) 5:1 Concentrated Granules $59.81

FAQ

Questions About An Shen Ding Zhi Wan

Q1: What are the actions of An Shen Ding Zhi Wan?

An Shen Ding Zhi Wan has the actions of tonifying Qi, calming the Spirit, and settling fright. It treats Heart-Gallbladder Qi deficiency in which the person is timid, easily startled, and cannot settle the Spirit.

Q2: Which modern conditions is An Shen Ding Zhi Wan suited to?

Modern TCM clinical practice commonly applies it to individuals whose pattern differentiation falls within Heart-Gallbladder Qi deficiency, including palpitations and insomnia from fright, anxiety with timidity and indecision, and poor sleep after shock of this deficient pattern — as an adjunct, not as a replacement for psychiatric or cardiac evaluation.

Q3: Is An Shen Ding Zhi Wan suitable for improving palpitations, timid sleep, and being easily startled?

For presentations of palpitations, insomnia with vivid dreams, timidity, indecision, a pale tongue, and a thin or weak pulse — in those whose pattern differentiation confirms Heart-Gallbladder Qi deficiency rather than blazing Fire — TCM commonly applies this pill as an adjunct. Chest pain, fainting, or severe depression needs medical care first.

Q4: Who should not take An Shen Ding Zhi Wan?

Those with Heart-Fire or Liver-Fire insomnia, Phlegm-Heat agitation, or an acute exterior pathogen are generally not suitable. The formula tonifies and settles; it does not drain Fire. Use should be assessed by a qualified TCM physician.

Q5: Why treat both the Heart and the Gallbladder?

The Gallbladder governs decision and courage; the Heart houses the Spirit. When their Qi is weak, small stimuli cause fright and the Spirit cannot stay. Ren Shen tonifies Heart Qi. Fu Ling and Fu Shen calm the Spirit and support the Middle. Yuan Zhi and Shi Chang Pu open the orifices and quiet fright. Long Chi (dragon tooth) heavily settles the Spirit. Tonifying Qi without settling leaves the person still startled; settling without tonifying leaves the Spirit with no root.

Q6: How does An Shen Ding Zhi Wan differ from Suan Zao Ren Tang or Tian Wang Bu Xin Dan?

Suan Zao Ren Tang nourishes Liver Blood and clears faint Heart Heat for deficiency-type insomnia. Tian Wang Bu Xin Dan more richly nourishes Heart-Kidney Yin and Blood for empty-Fire restlessness. An Shen Ding Zhi Wan is chosen when timidity, fright palpitations, and weak Gallbladder Qi are the leading signs rather than dry Yin-Blood deficiency or vigorous empty Fire.

Q7: What are the main ingredients of An Shen Ding Zhi Wan?

The commonly used composition includes Ren Shen to tonify Heart Qi; Fu Ling and Fu Shen to calm the Spirit and support the Spleen; Yuan Zhi and Shi Chang Pu to open the orifices and settle fright; and Long Chi (or a similar heavy settler) to anchor the Spirit. Some versions also include Zhu Sha historically; modern ethical practice does not use cinnabar.

Q8: Is An Shen Ding Zhi Wan suitable for long-term use?

It may be used for a course of treatment in chronic Heart-Gallbladder Qi deficiency under professional supervision. If Fire signs, greasy-Phlegm agitation, or no improvement appear, the formula should be changed. Persistent insomnia or panic still needs appropriate medical and psychological care.

Q9: Can this formula help both the timid indecision and the night-time palpitations?

Yes. Weak Gallbladder Qi shows as indecision and being easily frightened; weak Heart Qi shows as palpitations and unsettled sleep. Tonifying Qi and settling the Spirit can support both complaints of one Heart-Gallbladder deficiency pattern. Agitated Fire-type insomnia is a different formula.

Q10: What lifestyle advice supports the use of An Shen Ding Zhi Wan?

Keeping a regular sleep time, reducing late caffeine and frightening media before bed, using gentle daytime activity, and seeking help for chest pain, fainting, or thoughts of self-harm all support correct use. This pill treats a TCM Spirit pattern; it is not a substitute for emergency or mental-health care.

FAQ

General Questions

How do I choose the right formula?

TCM formulas are traditionally selected according to individual pattern differentiation rather than by symptom alone. If you're not sure which formula fits your presentation, take our AI Assessment below for a personalized starting point, then confirm with a qualified TCM practitioner.

What are concentrated herbal granules?

Concentrated herbal granules are made by decocting raw herbs, then extracting and concentrating the resulting liquid into a fine granule or powder form. This preserves the same active compounds as a traditional decoction while making the herbs far easier to store, measure, and prepare.

How should I take these products?

Dissolve the recommended amount of granules in hot water, stir until fully dissolved, and drink while warm — following the dosage and frequency advised by your TCM practitioner or as stated on the product packaging.

Are concentrated herbal granules equivalent to traditional decoctions?

Concentrated granules are produced from the same herbs and processed to retain their active compounds, so they are traditionally regarded as a convenient alternative to decoctions rather than a different remedy. Some practitioners note subtle differences in strength or absorption between the two forms, so your TCM practitioner may adjust dosage accordingly.

Are your products authentic?

Yes. HJMEDICAL sources its concentrated granules exclusively from established, reputable manufacturers such as Nong's and Hoi Tin, both long-standing names in the TCM granules industry, with GMP compliance stated directly on their packaging.

Are HJMEDICAL products manufactured under GMP standards?

HJMEDICAL sources its concentrated granules from established, reputable manufacturers such as Nong's and Hoi Tin, both long-standing names in the TCM granules industry. GMP compliance for these products is stated directly on their packaging.

Do you ship internationally?

Yes — we ship worldwide! Every order goes out via Hong Kong Post, and your exact shipping cost and estimated delivery time for your address are calculated and shown right at checkout, so there are never any surprises. We also offer free shipping once your order reaches our free-shipping threshold, so it's easy to stock up on your favorite formulas and save.

Can I take more than one formula at the same time?

Some formulas are traditionally combined, while others overlap or counteract each other. We recommend checking with a qualified TCM practitioner before combining formulas, especially if you are already taking other medication.

Are these products suitable during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Some TCM formulas are not suitable during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Please consult a qualified TCM practitioner or your doctor before use if you are pregnant, trying to conceive, or nursing.

Do these products replace medical treatment?

No. These products are traditional herbal supplements intended to support wellbeing according to TCM principles — they are not a replacement for professional medical diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a qualified TCM practitioner or licensed healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or combining any treatment, especially if you have a chronic condition.

Medical Disclaimer

For general TCM education only — not medical advice. Consult a qualified TCM practitioner or licensed healthcare provider before use, especially if pregnant, nursing, on medication, or managing a chronic condition.

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