Si Shen Wan
Classical TCM Formula Profile
Part of the HJMEDICAL TCM Discovery Center
四神丸 · Sì Shén Wán
A classical formula for daybreak (cock-crow) diarrhoea associated with Spleen and Kidney Yang deficiency, with early-morning loose stools, cold limbs, lumbar weakness and a deep slow pulse.
Read the complete guide →Quick Facts
- Formula Category
- Astringent Formulas
- Primary Pattern
- Yang Deficiency
- Primary Function
- Warm Spleen-Kidney Yang, astringe intestines, stop diarrhea
- Primary Therapeutic Principle
- Warm and tonify Spleen and Kidney Yang, astringe the Intestines and stop diarrhea
- Classical Source
- Zheng Zhi Zhun Sheng or traditional (Ming dynasty sources)
- Available as Granules
- Yes
Formula Overview
A classical formula for daybreak (cock-crow) diarrhoea associated with Spleen and Kidney Yang deficiency, with early-morning loose stools, cold limbs, lumbar weakness and a deep slow pulse.
Therapeutic Principle
Traditionally selected for daybreak diarrhoea from Spleen-Kidney Yang deficiency, combining warming with intestinal astringency — unlike Li Zhong Tang and Fu Zi Li Zhong Tang, which warm the Middle without securing the bowels, and distinct from Zhen Wu Tang's focus on water flooding.
Composition
(Sovereign / Minister / Assistant / Envoy)
Related Conditions
Related Health Topics
How does this formula compare?
| Compare | Si Shen Wan | Li Zhong Tang | Fu Zi Li Zhong Tang | Zhen Wu Tang |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Primary Function | Warm Spleen-Kidney Yang, astringe intestines, stop diarrhea | Warm Middle, tonify Spleen Yang | Warm Middle Yang, restore collapsed Yang, strengthen Spleen | Warm Yang, promote urination, transform water |
| Formula Category | Astringent Formulas | Yang-Tonifying Formulas | Yang-Tonifying Formulas | Yang-Tonifying Formulas |
| Typical TCM Pattern | Yang Deficiency | Yang Deficiency | Yang Deficiency | Yang Deficiency |
| Main Conditions | Diarrhea ·Abdominal Pain ·Poor Appetite ·Cold Limbs | Abdominal Pain ·Diarrhea ·Stomach Discomfort ·Poor Appetite | Abdominal Pain ·Diarrhea ·Stomach Discomfort ·Cold Limbs | Edema ·Abdominal Pain ·Cold Limbs ·Diarrhea |
| Main Herbs | Psoralea Fruit ·Nutmeg ·Evodia Fruit ·Schisandra Fruit | Ginseng Root ·Dried Ginger ·White Atractylodes Rhizome ·Honey-fried Licorice | Prepared Aconite Accessory Root ·Dried Ginger ·Ginseng Root ·White Atractylodes Rhizome ·Honey-fried Licorice | Prepared Aconite Accessory Root ·White Atractylodes Rhizome ·Poria / Hoelen ·White Peony Root ·Fresh Ginger |
| Classical Source | Zheng Zhi Zhun Sheng or traditional (Ming dynasty sources) | Shang Han Lun (Zhang Zhongjing, Eastern Han) | Tai Ping Hui Min He Ji Ju Fang / San Yin Ji Yi Bing Zheng Fang Lun (Song dynasty) | Shang Han Lun (Zhang Zhongjing, Eastern Han) |
Clinical Perspective
Si Shen Wan is specific for Yang-deficiency daybreak diarrhea. Li Zhong Tang and Fu Zi Li Zhong Tang warm the Middle without strong astringent action. Zhen Wu Tang addresses water flooding from Yang deficiency. Jin Suo Gu Jing Wan secures Essence rather than the bowels.
For educational reference only, based on traditional pattern differentiation — not a substitute for professional advice.
Related Articles
Si Shen Wan: Classic TCM Formula for Kidney Yang Deficiency & Early Morning Diarrhea
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Nong's Si Shen Wan (Four Miracle Pill) 5:1 Concentrated Granules
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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.