Which modern conditions is Danggui Shaoyao San indicated for?

It is frequently used for polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), premenstrual oedema, premenstrual syndrome, and abdominal pain during pregnancy, where the pattern diagnosis is liver-spleen disharmony with blood deficiency and dampness excess.

Is Danggui Shaoyao San suitable for PCOS management?

For disordered menstrual cycles, abnormal ovulation, lower limb oedema, fatigue and lack of energy, and a pale tongue with white coating where the pattern corresponds to blood deficiency with dampness excess, TCM physicians will commonly prescribe Danggui Shaoyao San as an adjunct treatment. However, it cannot replace standard gynaecological care and diagnosis.

Blood-Tonifying Formulas

當歸芍藥散 · Dāng Guī Sháo Yào Sàn

Dang Gui Shao Yao San

A classical Shang Han / Jin Gui formula for abdominal pain in women from Liver-Spleen disharmony with blood deficiency and damp.

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Last reviewed August 2026

Formula CategoryBlood-Tonifying Formulas

Primary PatternBlood Deficiency

Primary FunctionNourish blood, tonify Spleen, drain damp, ease pain

Primary Therapeutic PrincipleNourish Liver blood, strengthen Spleen, and drain dampness

Main HerbsChinese Angelica Root · White Peony Root · Poria / Hoelen · White Atractylodes Rhizome · Alisma Rhizome · Chuanxiong Rhizome

Classical SourceShang Han Lun (Zhang Zhongjing, Eastern Han)

Why This Formula?

Traditionally selected for abdominal pain in women from Liver-Spleen disharmony with blood deficiency and damp, rather than pure blood deficiency, Liver constraint alone, or cold in the channels.

Overview

What Is Dang Gui Shao Yao San?

1. Classical Literature

Dang Gui Shao Yao San (当归芍药散), or Tangkuei and Peony Powder, is a classical formula from Zhang Zhongjing’s Jin Gui Yao Lue (Essentials from the Golden Cabinet). It belongs to the category of formulas that nourish Blood, soften the Liver, strengthen the Spleen, and drain Dampness.

This formula addresses abdominal pain arising from Liver Blood deficiency combined with Spleen deficiency and internal Damp accumulation, a pattern frequently seen during pregnancy or in gynecological conditions. Typical signs include continuous mild or cramping abdominal pain, lower limb edema, urinary difficulty, dizziness or palpitations, a pale tongue with white coating, and a soft or wiry pulse.

Combining a large dose of Bai Shao as the chief herb to nourish Blood, soften the Liver, and relieve spasmodic pain, supported by Dang Gui and Chuan Xiong to further nourish and invigorate Blood, Bai Zhu and Fu Ling to strengthen the Spleen and transform Dampness, and Ze Xie to promote urination and drain Dampness downward, Dang Gui Shao Yao San effectively harmonizes the Liver and Spleen, nourishes Blood, and resolves Damp-related abdominal discomfort.

2. Gynaecological Conditions

Menstrual Irregularity Dang Gui Shao Yao San is a go-to remedy for women whose menstrual irregularities are tied to a stressed-out Liver and a sluggish Spleen.

Common Symptoms: Patients usually deal with unpredictable cycles (either coming too early or too late), a light flow with pale and dull-colored blood, along with annoying side effects like rib pain, severe bloating, and feeling emotionally down.
How it Works: The formula nourishes the blood, relaxes the Liver, boosts the Spleen, and drains dampness. By getting your Qi (energy) and blood back in sync, it restores your natural cycle.
Real-Life Example: Think of women dealing with intense work pressure and emotional rollercoasters. This stress blocks their Liver Qi, which then wrecks their digestion (Spleen/Stomach), leading to messed-up periods. Once Dang Gui Shao Yao San gets that Liver Qi flowing and fixes the gut, their cycles naturally regulate!

Dysmenorrhoea (Painful Periods) Period cramps are incredibly common, and Dang Gui Shao Yao San works wonders for cramps caused by a Liver/Spleen clash and poor blood flow.

Common Symptoms: Beyond just cramps, these patients often feel tightness in their chest and ribs, swollen and tender breasts, and suffer from belly bloating and diarrhea.
How it Works: Dang Gui and Chuan Xiong jump in to move the blood, break up clots, and kill the pain. Shao Yao softens a tense Liver to further ease cramping. Meanwhile, Fu Ling, Bai Zhu, and Ze Xie strengthen the digestive system to flush out the dampness making you feel heavy and gross.

Abdominal Pain During Pregnancy When a pregnant woman experiences belly pain because her Liver is stressed and her Spleen is weak, this formula can be a lifesaver.

Common Symptoms: Expecting moms might feel tight pain in their sides or ribs, uncomfortable belly bloating, and general restlessness.
How it Works: Dang Gui Shao Yao San safely nourishes the blood, softens the Liver, and settles the Stomach. It takes away the mom's discomfort while ensuring the baby continues to develop healthily. It is especially helpful for women whose pain is triggered by mood swings or poor eating habits during pregnancy.

3. Andrological Conditions

Stress-Induced Rib and Side Pain Men who are bottled up emotionally or dealing with crazy work stress easily develop a "depressed Liver and deficient Spleen," which often shows up as tight, distending pain in the ribs and sides.

How it Works: Dang Gui Shao Yao San isn't just for women! Dang Gui and Shao Yao feed the blood and relax the Liver to ease the tension. Fu Ling, Bai Zhu, and Ze Xie fix up the gut, while Chuan Xiong gets the Qi and blood moving to quickly knock out the pain.

Scrotal Dampness This uncomfortable condition is almost always linked to a weak Spleen failing to manage fluids, leading to a buildup of gross dampness in the lower body.

How it Works: The heavy lifters here are Fu Ling, Bai Zhu, and Ze Xie, which act like a dehumidifier for your body, draining out that scrotal dampness. At the same time, Dang Gui and Shao Yao regulate your overall blood flow. It is highly effective for men who have scrotal dampness along with rib pain, bloating, and loose stools.

4. Internal Medicine Conditions

Dizziness When your Liver is stressed and your Spleen is weak, your body struggles to make enough Qi and blood. Because of this, the "clear yang" (good, nourishing energy) can't travel up to your head, leaving you dizzy.

Common Symptoms: Dizzy spells, blurry vision, rib tightness, bloating, and a complete lack of appetite.
How it Works: Dang Gui and Shao Yao send nourishing blood straight to your head and eyes. Fu Ling, Bai Zhu, and Ze Xie fix your digestion so you can actually produce more energy. Finally, Chuan Xiong ensures everything circulates properly.

Headaches Chronic headaches are another classic sign of Liver and Spleen drama.

Common Symptoms: Headaches triggered by emotional stress, accompanied by rib pain, a bloated belly, and diarrhea.
How it Works: Dang Gui and Shao Yao calm down the angry Liver Qi that is rushing up to your head and causing the throbbing pain. Fu Ling, Bai Zhu, and Ze Xie dry up the internal "phlegm-dampness" that makes your head feel cloudy and heavy, while Chuan Xiong opens up the pathways to stop the pain in its tracks.

How It Works

Herb Composition (Sovereign / Minister / Assistant / Envoy)

1. Sovereign Herb: Dang Gui (Angelica Root)

Dang Gui acts as the "Sovereign" or lead herb in Dang Gui Shao Yao San. It is sweet, acrid, and warm, and it primarily targets the Liver, Heart, and Spleen channels.

The Ultimate Blood Builder: Since blood is considered the foundation of women's health and the Liver stores this blood, Dang Gui steps in to deeply nourish and replenish Liver blood.
Symptom Relief: It is incredibly effective for signs of low blood, such as a pale or sallow complexion, dizziness, palpitations, and irregular menstrual cycles.
Keeps Things Moving: Beyond just building blood, it powerfully invigorates blood circulation. This prevents stagnation, eases terrible period cramps, moistens the intestines, and helps restore a healthy, regular menstrual cycle.

2. Minister Herb: Shao Yao (White Peony Root / Bai Shao)

Working closely with the lead herb, Shao Yao (specifically Bai Shao) takes on the "Minister" role. It is slightly cold, with a bitter and sour taste, and focuses on the Liver and Spleen channels.

Softens and Soothes: Its main job is to help nourish the blood while "softening" the Liver. When Liver energy (Qi) gets stuck or tense, it causes sharp pain in the ribs or stomach. Shao Yao smooths this out and provides excellent pain relief.
Nourishes Yin: It helps hold onto the body's cooling Yin energy and stops excessive sweating, which can ease dizziness and blurred vision caused by Liver Yin deficiency.
Gynaecological Focus: It is a go-to for fixing irregular periods and abdominal cramps triggered by a mix of emotional stress (Liver depression) and weak blood.

3. Assistant Herbs: Fu Ling (Poria), Bai Zhu (White Atractylodes Rhizome), and Ze Xie (Alisma Rhizome)

This trio acts as the "Assistants" in Dang Gui Shao Yao San, and their main mission is to strengthen your digestion (Spleen) and drain out heavy, sluggish dampness.

The Digestive Powerhouse: The Spleen and Stomach are responsible for creating new Qi and blood. If they are weak, fluid builds up and turns into "water-dampness."
Flushing the System: Fu Ling, Bai Zhu, and Ze Xie work as a team to boost your digestion, flush out excess water weight, and clear up issues like abdominal bloating and loose stools.
Unblocking the Cycle: In women's health, this internal dampness can physically block periods, causing them to be late or extremely light. By clearing out the dampness, these herbs allow Qi and blood to flow freely again!

4. Envoy Herb: Chuan Xiong (Sichuan Lovage Rhizome)

Finally, Chuan Xiong acts as the "Envoy" or guide for the entire formula. It is warm, spicy, and specifically targets the Liver and Gallbladder channels.

The Navigator: It literally guides the other herbs directly to the site of the issue, concentrating the formula's healing power.
The Ultimate Unblocker: Paired with Dang Gui, it supercharges blood flow and quickly breaks up stubborn blood stasis. It is also fantastic for clearing out "wind" pathogens that cause headaches and body aches.
Period Pain Relief: By forcing stagnant Qi and blood to move, it acts as a powerful remedy for severe cramps, missed periods, and chest or rib tightness, ensuring a smooth, pain-free cycle and a much better overall mood.

Symptoms Traditionally Associated

Clinical Presentation in TCM

1. Pathomechanism

The main root cause that Dang Gui Shao Yao San targets is a combination of a depressed Liver and a weak Spleen, which leads to a messy disharmony between your Qi (energy) and blood.

The Liver's Role: In TCM, the Liver loves to keep things flowing smoothly and hates feeling constrained. When emotional stress hits, Liver Qi gets stuck and depressed. This stagnation directly blocks your blood flow, making it incredibly easy to develop internal blood stasis.
The Spleen's Role: A stressed, stuck Liver will eventually "bully" or overact on your Spleen (your digestive engine). This weakens the Spleen, meaning it can no longer produce enough fresh Qi and blood. It also loses its ability to manage fluids properly, causing heavy water-dampness to build up inside.
This vicious cycle—a stressed Liver and a weak Spleen—creates a perfect storm for a variety of health issues!

2. Actions (Dang Gui Shao Yao San)

Based on that root cause, Dang Gui Shao Yao San steps in with a perfect two-part strategy: nourishing the blood to soothe the Liver, and strengthening the Spleen to drain out dampness.

By using herbs like Dang Gui and Shao Yao, the formula softens the Liver, regulates blood flow, and gets Liver Qi moving happily again.
Simultaneously, the digestive-boosting team of Fu Ling, Bai Zhu, and Ze Xie gets to work. They reinforce your Spleen's ability to process food and flush out that stagnant water-dampness. Once your Qi and blood are balanced and the dampness is gone, your body can finally heal.

3. Indications

This formula is a fantastic go-to for a wide range of issues caused by this Liver-Spleen clash, especially in women's health:

Women's Health (Gynaecology): It is famous for fixing irregular menstrual cycles (correcting timing, flow volume, and pale color). It is also a powerhouse for relieving painful periods (dysmenorrhoea) by breaking up stagnant blood and dampness. It is even used to calm abdominal pain during pregnancy, helping to stabilize digestion and support healthy fetal development.
Men's Health (Andrology): It is not just for women! It can effectively treat rib/chest distension, scrotal dampness, and reduced sexual function when they are caused by this specific Liver and Spleen imbalance.
General Health (Internal Medicine): If you suffer from dizziness, chronic headaches, bloating, or diarrhea tied to emotional stress and weak digestion, this formula can be easily modified to regulate your body and clear up those annoying symptoms.

Formula Analysis

The Mechanism in Classical Theory

1. Nourishing the Blood and Softening the Liver

Dang Gui and Shao Yao are the absolute superstars here for building up your blood and keeping your Liver happy, relaxed, and soft.

Dang Gui acts as a powerful blood builder, feeding the Liver exactly what it needs to function at its best.
Shao Yao steps in to nourish the blood, hold onto your body's Yin fluids, soften a tense Liver, and kill pain.
How they work together: In TCM, the Liver acts like a sponge that stores blood and a traffic cop that keeps your Qi (energy) flowing smoothly. If your Liver is full of healthy blood, your Qi flows perfectly. If it's running on empty, your Qi gets stuck and causes all sorts of discomfort.
By teaming up, the herbs in Dang Gui Shao Yao San regulate this balance. For example, if you have uncomfortable rib or side pain (hypochondriac pain) from stuck Liver Qi, this combo soothes the Liver, nourishes the blood, and helps that pain fade away.

2. Strengthening the Spleen and Draining Dampness

The trio of Fu Ling, Bai Zhu, and Ze Xie is your ultimate digestive repair and moisture-draining team.

Fu Ling helps you pee out extra dampness, strengthens your Spleen, and even helps calm your mind.
Bai Zhu boosts your Spleen Qi, dries up soggy dampness, and also helps with urination.
Ze Xie is excellent at flushing out both dampness and heat.
Why this matters: Your Spleen and Stomach are the root of your everyday health—they literally create your Qi and blood from the food you eat. When your Spleen is weak, it can't process fluids right, leading to a buildup of gross, stagnant water-dampness.
This herbal trio reboots your digestive engine. Once that heavy water-dampness is flushed out, your Qi and blood can circulate freely again! This is amazing for fixing bloating and diarrhea. In women's health, this trapped dampness can block periods, causing light or late cycles. This team clears the blockages and gets your cycle back on track.

3. Invigorating Blood and Moving Qi

Chuan Xiong is the "mover and shaker" of the formula, designed to invigorate your blood and get your Qi moving, while also relieving pain and dispelling wind.

The Synergy: When you pair it with Dang Gui, it supercharges the formula's ability to break up old, stubborn blood stasis, ensuring your circulation is totally unblocked.
Full-Body Nourishment: When your Qi and blood are flowing smoothly without any traffic jams, your organ systems work properly and every single part of your body gets the nutrients it needs.
Women's Health Benefits: Chuan Xiong is a lifesaver for conditions like painful cramps (dysmenorrhoea) or missing periods (amenorrhoea) that happen when old blood gets stuck. It helps the menstrual blood flow smoothly and naturally.
It also releases the pressure of stuck Qi, getting rid of that tight, distending pain in your ribs and sides, which really concentrates the formula's power and makes it incredibly effective.

How This Formula Compares

Clinical Comparison Table

Compare	Dang Gui Shao Yao San	Xiao Yao San	Si Wu Tang	Dang Gui Si Ni Tang
Primary Function	Nourish blood, tonify Spleen, drain damp, ease pain	Course Liver Qi, tonify Spleen, nourish Blood	Tonify Blood, nourish Liver	Warm channels, nourish Blood, disperse Cold
Formula Category	Blood-Tonifying Formulas	Harmonising Formulas	Blood-Tonifying Formulas	Blood-Tonifying Formulas
Typical TCM Pattern	Blood Deficiency	Qi Stagnation	Blood Deficiency	Blood Deficiency
Main Conditions	Abdominal Pain, Edema, Irregular Menstruation	Hypochondriac Distension, Emotional Depression, Poor Appetite, Irregular Menstruation, Fatigue & Low Energy	Irregular Menstruation, Dizziness & Vertigo, Fatigue & Low Energy, Eye Dryness	Cold Limbs, Joint Discomfort, Low Back Pain
Main Herbs	Chinese Angelica Root · White Peony Root · Poria / Hoelen · White Atractylodes Rhizome · Alisma Rhizome · Chuanxiong Rhizome	Bupleurum Root · Chinese Angelica Root · White Peony Root · White Atractylodes Rhizome · Poria / Hoelen · Mentha / Peppermint · Fresh Ginger · Honey-fried Licorice	Prepared Rehmannia Root · Chinese Angelica Root · White Peony Root · Chuanxiong Rhizome	Chinese Angelica Root · Cinnamon Twig · White Peony Root · Asarum / Wild Ginger · Tetrapanax Pith · Jujube / Chinese Date · Honey-fried Licorice
Classical Source	Shang Han Lun (Zhang Zhongjing, Eastern Han)	Tai Ping Hui Min He Ji Ju Fang (Song dynasty)	Xian Shou Li Shang Xu Duan Mi Fang / Tai Ping Hui Min He Ji Ju Fang	Shang Han Lun (Zhang Zhongjing, Eastern Han)

How to tell them apart

Dang Gui Shao Yao San, Xiao Yao San, Si Wu Tang and Dang Gui Si Ni Tang all involve blood and the Liver-Spleen axis. Si Wu Tang nourishes blood alone; Xiao Yao San spreads Liver Qi with mild tonification; Dang Gui Si Ni Tang warms channels for cold extremities. Dang Gui Shao Yao San pairs blood nourishment with Spleen-strengthening and damp-draining for abdominal cramping from blood deficiency with damp.

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

Clinical Modifications

Clinical Modifications for Dang Gui Shao Yao San

1. Pronounced Liver Qi Stagnation

If a patient is dealing with intense emotional swings, a tight chest, or severe rib pain, it means their Liver Qi is severely stuck. To give the formula an extra boost in smoothing things out, you can add:

Chai Hu (Bupleurum Root): This herb is famous for resolving depression, soothing the Liver, and lifting your energy (Yang Qi).
Xiang Fu (Cyperus Rhizome): A fantastic herb for regulating stuck Qi and killing pain.
The Result: Adding these to Dang Gui Shao Yao San gets the Liver Qi flowing freely again, making it highly effective for patients who are incredibly stressed and emotionally fluctuating.

2. Pronounced Blood Stasis Obstruction

When stubborn, old blood gets trapped—showing up as excruciating period cramps with dark clots, or even a completely missing period (amenorrhoea)—you need heavy-hitting herbs to break the traffic jam:

Tao Ren (Peach Kernel): Powerfully invigorates the blood, breaks up stasis, and even moistens the intestines to keep you regular.
Hong Hua (Safflower): Unblocks menstruation, moves the blood, and relieves severe pain.
The Result: When these team up with Dang Gui and Chuan Xiong, they create an unstoppable stasis-busting combo, ensuring your menstrual flow is completely unblocked and pain-free.

3. Severe Spleen Deficiency with Dampness Excess

If the patient's digestive system is really struggling—presenting with constant belly bloating and frequent, watery diarrhea—you need to dry up that excess dampness and rescue the Spleen:

Shan Yao (Chinese Yam): Acts like a gentle, nourishing hug for your Spleen and Stomach, while also supporting your Lungs and Kidneys.
Yi Yi Ren (Coix Seed): A super-herb for draining out soggy dampness through urination, stopping diarrhea, and strengthening the gut.
The Result: Adding these to the mix significantly clears out the heavy dampness and stops chronic diarrhea, helping the digestive system rebuild its strength.

4. Pronounced Blood Deficiency

When a patient is running completely empty on blood—showing signs like a pale face, dizziness, blurry vision, heart palpitations, and insomnia—you need to deeply nourish their system:

Shu Di (Processed Rehmannia Root): A heavy, rich herb that deeply tonifies your blood and Yin, filling up your body's deepest reserves (essence and marrow).
E Jiao (Ass-hide Gelatin): Famous for tonifying the blood, stopping bleeding, and moistening internal dryness.
The Result: When combined with Dang Gui, these herbs massively upgrade the formula's blood-building power, making it perfect for severely depleted patients who need to quickly replenish their physical condition.

Modern Research

What the Science Suggests

Dang Gui Shao Yao San (tangkuei and peony formula), also known as Angelica and Peony Powder or Dang Gui and Peony Powder, is a classical formula in Traditional Chinese Medicine that softens the liver, nourishes blood, and resolves dampness.

It is particularly valuable for blood deficiency and dampness patterns, commonly used to support pregnancy, relieve abdominal pain during pregnancy, prevent threatened miscarriage, and address irregular periods, vaginal discharge, and polycystic ovarian syndrome. The formula promotes urination and is effective for difficult urination with associated symptoms such as edema or heaviness. By harmonizing the liver and spleen while nourishing blood and resolving dampness, Dang Gui Shao Yao San provides excellent pregnancy support and overall gynecological balance.

1. Research on Gynaecological Conditions

Modern science has shown that Dang Gui Shao Yao San is highly effective for a wide range of women's health issues.

Menstrual Irregularity: Research reveals that this formula acts as a great reset button for the female endocrine system. It actively improves blood circulation to the uterine lining. In clinical tests, women using the formula saw their hormone levels balance out, their endometrial thickness improve, and their cycles get back on a healthy, regular track.
Painful Periods (Dysmenorrhoea): If you suffer from awful cramps, this formula helps by acting like a natural muscle relaxant. It stops the uterus from contracting too hard and improves local blood flow (preventing ischaemia and hypoxia). Lab studies confirm it actually lowers the production of prostaglandins—the main chemicals that cause those intense cramps—bringing serious pain relief.
Abdominal Pain During Pregnancy: For expecting mothers, the formula beautifully balances Qi and blood. It enhances blood flow between the uterus and the placenta, creating an ideal, nourishing environment for the baby. Multiple clinical trials have reported high success rates, showing it safely relieves pregnancy-related abdominal pain while protecting normal foetal development.

2. Research on Andrological Conditions

It is not just for women; Dang Gui Shao Yao San has shown impressive results in treating men's health issues, too.

Rib and Side Pain (Hypochondriac Pain): When chronic stress ties your Liver in knots (Liver depression and Spleen deficiency), it often causes a tight, distending pain in your sides. Modern research proves this formula regulates the liver's neuroendocrine functions to get stuck Liver Qi moving again. Blood tests from patients show improved liver function markers and a massive reduction in pain.
Scrotal Dampness: This uncomfortable condition is tied to poor fluid processing. The formula steps in to regulate fluid metabolism and improve local blood flow. By balancing the body's electrolytes and osmotic pressure, it effectively reduces excess sweat production in the scrotal area, clearing up the dampness.

3. Research on Other Conditions

Beyond reproductive health, the therapeutic reach of Dang Gui Shao Yao San continues to impress researchers across other medical fields.

Dizziness: For dizziness caused by a clash between the Liver and Spleen, this formula directly targets the brain. Brain imaging and blood tests show that it speeds up cerebral blood flow and decreases blood stickiness (viscosity). By delivering more oxygen and blood to brain tissue, it effectively clears up dizzy spells.
Headaches: Studies indicate the formula is great at regulating the nerves and blood vessels in the head. It prevents abnormal neurotransmitter misfires and helps blood vessels function normally. Many clinical trials highlight its high success rate in relieving severe headache symptoms and significantly improving patients' quality of life.
Future Potential: The medical community is not stopping here. Ongoing research is actively exploring how Dang Gui Shao Yao San can be used to treat various digestive system and neurological conditions, promising new, natural treatment options for the future.

Safety

Safety Considerations

1. Dietary Restrictions and Emotional Regulation

While taking Dang Gui Shao Yao San, avoid raw or cold, greasy, spicy, irritating foods, and alcohol, as they may impair digestion, promote damp-heat, or reduce the formula’s effectiveness. Maintain emotional stability and avoid anger, anxiety, and depression; activities such as walking, listening to music, and socialising may help support recovery.

2. Special Populations and Proper Use

Pregnant women should use this formula only under medical supervision after carefully weighing the potential benefits and risks. Individuals with a weak constitution or spleen-stomach deficiency-cold should consult a healthcare professional about adjusting the dosage or treatment duration to avoid further weakening the digestive system.

Available Products

Where to Get It

Nong's Dang Gui Shao Yao San Extract Granules

HJMEDICAL Nong's Dang Gui Shao Yao San (Angelica & Peony) 5:1 Concentrated Granules $56.60

HJMEDICAL Hoi Tin Xiao Yao San (Free and Easy Wanderer Powder) 5:1 Concentrated Granules $22.15

HJMEDICAL Nong's Xiao Yao San (Free & Easy Wanderer) 5:1 Concentrated Granules $50.18

HJMEDICAL Hoi Tin Si Wu Tang (Four Substances Decoction) 5:1 Concentrated Granules $19.37

HJMEDICAL Nong's Si Wu Tang (Four Substances Decoction) 5:1 Concentrated Granules $46.97

HJMEDICAL Hoi Tin Dang Gui Si Ni Tang (Angelica Warming Circulation Decoction) 5:1 Concentrated Granules $29.10

Nong's Dang Gui Si Ni Tang Extract Granules

HJMEDICAL Nong's Dang Gui Si Ni Tang (Angelica Frigid Extremities Decoction) 5:1 Concentrated Granules $67.30

FAQ

Questions About Dang Gui Shao Yao San

Q1: What are the actions of Dang Gui Shao Yao San?

Dang Gui Shao Yao San has the actions of nourishing blood and softening the Liver, strengthening the Spleen and draining dampness, and invigorating blood to stop pain. It is primarily used for patterns of Liver-Spleen disharmony with blood deficiency and internal dampness.

Q2: Which modern conditions is Dang Gui Shao Yao San commonly applied to?

In modern TCM clinical practice it is frequently used for patients whose pattern differentiation matches Liver-Spleen disharmony with blood deficiency and dampness, including dysmenorrhea, irregular menstruation, lower-limb edema, dizziness, and certain cases of infertility or chronic pelvic pain.

Q3: Is Dang Gui Shao Yao San suitable for improving abdominal pain and menstrual discomfort?

For presentations of continuous or dull lower-abdominal pain, menstrual cramping, mild edema, dizziness, or scanty pale menstrual flow — when pattern differentiation confirms blood deficiency with Liver-Spleen disharmony and dampness — TCM commonly applies Dang Gui Shao Yao San as an adjunct. It cannot replace standard medical evaluation.

Q4: Who should not take Dang Gui Shao Yao San?

Those with pure excess heat, damp-heat patterns, severe blood stasis without deficiency, or heavy menstrual bleeding without proper assessment are generally not suitable. Use should be evaluated by a qualified TCM physician based on individual constitution and pattern differentiation.

Q5: Can Dang Gui Shao Yao San be used during pregnancy?

Classically, Dang Gui Shao Yao San was indicated for abdominal pain during pregnancy due to Liver-Spleen disharmony. However, because it contains blood-invigorating herbs, it should only be used under the guidance of a qualified TCM practitioner experienced in pregnancy care.

Q6: What is the classic presentation for Dang Gui Shao Yao San?

The classic presentation includes continuous or intermittent lower-abdominal pain (often during pregnancy or menstruation), mild edema of the lower limbs, dizziness, and a pale tongue with white or slightly greasy coating, reflecting blood deficiency combined with dampness and Liver-Spleen disharmony.

Q7: How does Dang Gui Shao Yao San differ from pure blood-nourishing formulas?

Unlike simple blood tonics, Dang Gui Shao Yao San simultaneously nourishes blood, softens the Liver, strengthens the Spleen, and drains dampness. This makes it particularly suitable when blood deficiency is accompanied by fluid retention, mild edema, or digestive weakness.

Q8: Can Dang Gui Shao Yao San help with edema or fluid retention?

Yes. When mild lower-limb edema or fluid retention occurs together with blood deficiency and Spleen weakness (especially in the context of menstruation or pregnancy), the formula’s combination of Bai Zhu, Fu Ling, and Ze Xie helps drain dampness while the blood-nourishing herbs address the underlying deficiency.

Q9: Is Dang Gui Shao Yao San suitable for cases with heavy menstrual bleeding?

Caution is required. Because the formula invigorates blood, it is generally not the first choice for heavy menstrual bleeding. Professional assessment is necessary to determine whether the pattern is appropriate and whether modifications are needed.

Q10: Does Dang Gui Shao Yao San require pattern differentiation before use?

Yes. Dang Gui Shao Yao San is indicated only for the specific pattern of Liver-Spleen disharmony with blood deficiency and internal dampness. Self-medication without proper TCM pattern differentiation is not recommended. Consultation with a qualified TCM practitioner is essential.

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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