Wu Pi Yin
Classical TCM Formula Profile
Part of the HJMEDICAL TCM Discovery Center
五皮饮 · Wǔ Pí Yǐn
A classical five-peel formula for skin oedema (Pi Shui) with abdominal distension and scanty urine, using peels to drain damp from the exterior and Middle without heavy tonification.
Read the complete guide →Quick Facts
- Formula Category
- Dampness-Draining Formulas
- Primary Pattern
- Dampness
- Primary Function
- Drain dampness, reduce oedema, move Qi
- Primary Therapeutic Principle
- Promote urination, reduce oedema and regulate Qi in the skin and Middle
- Classical Source
- Hua Shi Zhong Zang Jing / Zhong Zang Jing tradition
- Available as Granules
- Yes
Formula Overview
A classical five-peel formula for skin oedema (Pi Shui) with abdominal distension and scanty urine, using peels to drain damp from the exterior and Middle without heavy tonification.
Therapeutic Principle
Traditionally selected for superficial oedema with distension and scanty urine — a draining and Qi-moving approach rather than Yang-warming or strong Spleen-tonifying diuresis.
Composition
(Sovereign / Minister / Assistant / Envoy)
Related Conditions
Related Health Topics
How does this formula compare?
| Compare | Wu Pi Yin | Wu Ling San | Zhen Wu Tang |
|---|---|---|---|
| Primary Function | Drain dampness, reduce oedema, move Qi | Promote urination, drain Dampness, warm Yang | Warm Yang, promote urination, transform water |
| Formula Category | Dampness-Draining Formulas | Dampness-Draining Formulas | Yang-Tonifying Formulas |
| Typical TCM Pattern | Dampness | Dampness | Yang Deficiency |
| Main Conditions | Edema ·Bloating ·Frequent Urination ·Poor Appetite | Edema ·Frequent Urination ·Damp Constitution | Edema ·Abdominal Pain ·Cold Limbs ·Diarrhea |
| Main Herbs | Mulberry Root Bark ·Fresh Ginger Peel ·Poria Peel ·Tangerine Peel ·Areca Peel / Betel Husk | Alisma Rhizome ·Poria / Hoelen ·Polyporus ·White Atractylodes Rhizome ·Cinnamon Twig | Prepared Aconite Accessory Root ·White Atractylodes Rhizome ·Poria / Hoelen ·White Peony Root ·Fresh Ginger |
| Classical Source | Hua Shi Zhong Zang Jing / Zhong Zang Jing tradition | Shang Han Lun (Zhang Zhongjing, Eastern Han) | Shang Han Lun (Zhang Zhongjing, Eastern Han) |
Clinical Perspective
Wu Pi Yin drains damp oedema with Qi-moving peels. Wu Ling San promotes urination and warms Yang for internal damp accumulation. Zhen Wu Tang warms Kidney Yang to transform water for yang-deficient oedema.
For educational reference only, based on traditional pattern differentiation — not a substitute for professional advice.
Related Articles
Wu Pi Yin: Classic TCM Formula for Edema, Skin Edema & Spleen Deficiency with Water Retention
Related Products
Hoi Tin Wu Pi Yin (Five Peel Drink) 5:1 Concentrated Granules
Nong's Wu Pi Yin (Five Peel Beverage) 5:1 Concentrated Granules
Browse all classical formulas →
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.