Liu Wei Di Huang Wan
Classical TCM Formula Profile
Part of the HJMEDICAL TCM Discovery Center
六味地黄丸 · Liù Wèi Dì Huáng Wán
The foundational Yin-tonifying formula for Kidney Yin deficiency. It nourishes the Kidney while gently draining residual dampness and empty heat, addressing dizziness, tinnitus, night sweats, lumbar soreness and a red tongue with scant coating.
Read the complete guide →Quick Facts
- Formula Category
- Yin-Tonifying Formulas
- Primary Pattern
- Kidney Yin Deficiency
- Primary Function
- Nourish Kidney Yin
- Primary Therapeutic Principle
- Nourish Kidney Yin and enrich the essence
- Classical Source
- Xiao Er Yao Zheng Zhi Jue (Qian Yi, Song dynasty) / later popularised
- Available as Granules
- Yes
Formula Overview
The foundational Yin-tonifying formula for Kidney Yin deficiency. It nourishes the Kidney while gently draining residual dampness and empty heat, addressing dizziness, tinnitus, night sweats, lumbar soreness and a red tongue with scant coating.
Therapeutic Principle
Traditionally selected for pure Kidney Yin deficiency without prominent empty Fire or eye symptoms — the foundational formula from which Qi Ju Di Huang Wan and Zhi Bai Di Huang Wan are derived by adding directional herbs.
Composition
(Sovereign / Minister / Assistant / Envoy)
Related Conditions
Related Health Topics
How does this formula compare?
| Compare | Liu Wei Di Huang Wan | Qi Ju Di Huang Wan | Zhi Bai Di Huang Wan | Zuo Gui Wan |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Primary Function | Nourish Kidney Yin | Nourish Liver-Kidney Yin, brighten the eyes | Nourish Yin, clear deficiency Heat | Enrich Yin, tonify Kidney, replenish essence and marrow |
| Formula Category | Yin-Tonifying Formulas | Yin-Tonifying Formulas | Yin-Tonifying Formulas | Yin-Tonifying Formulas |
| Typical TCM Pattern | Kidney Yin Deficiency | Kidney Yin Deficiency | Kidney Yin Deficiency | Kidney Yin Deficiency |
| Main Conditions | Dizziness & Vertigo ·Tinnitus ·Night Sweats ·Fatigue & Low Energy | Dizziness & Vertigo ·Eye Dryness ·Tinnitus ·Night Sweats | Yin Deficiency Constitution ·Night Sweats | Night Sweats |
| Main Herbs | Prepared Rehmannia Root ·Cornus Fruit ·Chinese Yam ·Alisma Rhizome ·Moutan Bark / Tree Peony Bark | Prepared Rehmannia Root ·Cornus Fruit ·Chinese Yam ·Alisma Rhizome ·Moutan Bark / Tree Peony Bark | Prepared Rehmannia Root ·Cornus Fruit ·Chinese Yam ·Alisma Rhizome ·Moutan Bark / Tree Peony Bark | Prepared Rehmannia Root ·Cornus Fruit ·Chinese Yam ·Goji Berry / Lycium Fruit ·Cuscuta Seed |
| Classical Source | Xiao Er Yao Zheng Zhi Jue (Qian Yi, Song dynasty) / later popularised | Derived from Liu Wei Di Huang Wan (Yi Fang Ji Jie / later traditional sources) | Yi Zong Jin Jian / Investigation of Medical Formulas (Ming dynasty) | Ming-Qing classical formulary |
Clinical Perspective
Liu Wei Di Huang Wan is the pure Yin-tonifying base. Qi Ju Di Huang Wan adds Gou Qi Zi and Ju Hua for eye symptoms. Zhi Bai Di Huang Wan adds Zhi Mu and Huang Bai to clear empty Fire. Zuo Gui Wan is a stronger pure Yin tonic without the draining components.
For educational reference only, based on traditional pattern differentiation — not a substitute for professional advice.
Related Articles
Liu Wei Di Huang Wan: Classic TCM Formula for Kidney & Liver Yin Deficiency
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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.