Dang Gui Shao Yao San当归芍药散
Tangkuei & Peony Formula
Ingredients6 herbs
Indications
Liver blood deficiency with Spleen failing to transform fluids: blood fails to nourish and soften the Liver, qi coursing loses its ease, and retained water-damp accumulates in the middle and lower burners. Commonly considered for pattern-conforming presentations in dysmenorrhea, premenstrual syndrome, functional abdominal pain, pregnancy-related edema (under appropriate obstetric care), and chronic gynecological disorders with concurrent blood deficiency and damp accumulation.
Clinical Manifestations
- Gripping or aching pain in the lower abdomen
- Irregular menstruation with abdominal pain
- Abdominal distension or discomfort before menstruation
- Fatigue, pale complexion, and dizziness
Health Categories
Modern Applications
Common adjustments
- Pronounced qi stagnation — add Xiang Fu 香附, Yu Jin 郁金
- Predominant edema — increase Ze Xie 泽泻 and Fu Ling 茯苓
- Marked blood-deficiency dizziness — increase Dang Gui 当归; add Shu Di Huang 熟地黄
- Relatively cold presentation — add Ai Ye 艾叶 or Pao Jiang 炮姜
Contraindications
Not for abdominal pain from excess-heat patterns or blood stasis with heat signs. Use in pregnancy belongs with a qualified practitioner coordinating obstetric care.
For licensed practitioners’ reference only — not a self-treatment guide.
Pregnancy
Practitioner supervision required
References
Source Jin Gui Yao Lue 《金匮要略》 · Eastern Han
「妇人怀妊，腹中㽲痛，当归芍药散主之。」「妇人腹中诸疾痛，当归芍药散主之。」
- Zhang Zhong-jing 张仲景. Jin Gui Yao Lue《金匮要略》(classical source).
2. Scheid, Bensky, Ellis & Barolet. Chinese Herbal Medicine: Formulas & Strategies, 2nd ed. — composition & dosage cross-checked.
3. 《方剂学》（规划教材）— pattern analysis cross-checked.
Professional reference notice. Entries are scholarly references for licensed TCM practitioners and students — not medical advice, and not a recommendation to self-prescribe. Chinese herbal formulas should be used under the guidance of a qualified practitioner. Content is an original editorial compilation by Cura x Cura, cross-checked against the cited references.