Zhi Gan Cao Tang
Classical TCM Formula Profile
Part of the HJMEDICAL TCM Discovery Center
炙甘草湯 · Zhì Gān Cǎo Tāng
A classical formula for irregular or intermittent pulse from Qi-blood and Yin deficiency with heart palpitations.
Quick Facts
- Formula Category
- Qi-Tonifying Formulas
- Primary Pattern
- Qi Deficiency
- Primary Function
- Tonify Qi and blood, nourish Yin, restore pulse
- Primary Therapeutic Principle
- Tonify Qi-blood and nourish Yin to restore irregular pulse
- Classical Source
- Shang Han Lun (Zhang Zhongjing, Eastern Han)
- Available as Granules
- —
Formula Overview
A classical formula for irregular or intermittent pulse from Qi-blood and Yin deficiency with heart palpitations.
Therapeutic Principle
Traditionally selected when the presentation matches the core pattern of this formula.
Composition
(Sovereign / Minister / Assistant / Envoy)
Related Conditions
Related Health Topics
How does this formula compare?
| Compare | Zhi Gan Cao Tang | Sheng Mai San | Tian Wang Bu Xin Dan |
|---|---|---|---|
| Primary Function | Tonify Qi and blood, nourish Yin, restore pulse | Tonify Qi, generate fluids, astringe Yin | Nourish Yin and Blood, tonify the Heart, calm the spirit |
| Formula Category | Qi-Tonifying Formulas | Qi-Tonifying Formulas | Calm the Shen Formulas |
| Typical TCM Pattern | Qi Deficiency | Qi Deficiency | Yin Deficiency |
| Main Conditions | Palpitations ·Fatigue & Low Energy ·Insomnia | Fatigue & Low Energy ·Spontaneous Sweating ·Dry Mouth & Throat ·Palpitations | Insomnia ·Anxiety Restlessness ·Palpitations ·Dry Mouth & Throat |
| Main Herbs | Honey-fried Licorice ·Ginseng Root ·Cinnamon Twig ·Fresh Ginger ·Donkey-hide Gelatin | Ginseng Root ·Ophiopogon Tuber ·Schisandra Fruit | Raw Rehmannia Root ·Ginseng Root ·Scrophularia Root ·Salvia Root ·Poria / Hoelen |
| Classical Source | Shang Han Lun (Zhang Zhongjing, Eastern Han) | Nei Wai Shang Bian Huo Lun (Li Dongyuan) / Yi Xue Qi Yuan | She Sheng Mi Pou (Ming dynasty) / classical Heart-Yin tonic tradition |
Clinical Perspective
Zhi Gan Cao Tang is distinguished from Sheng Mai San, Tian Wang Bu Xin Dan by its specific pattern focus and herb strategy.
For educational reference only, based on traditional pattern differentiation — not a substitute for professional advice.
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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.