Du Qi Wan都气丸
Capital Qi Pill
Ingredients1 herbs
Indications
Kidney yin deficiency with the Kidney failing to grasp the qi. Breath is drawn in but not anchored, so exhalation is long and inhalation short.
Clinical Manifestations
- Breathlessness worse on exertion, easier at rest
- Chronic wheeze with a weak lower back
- Persistent dry cough late in a long illness
- Hiccup or belching from a Kidney unable to hold qi down
Health Categories
Modern Applications
Common adjustments
- Yang deficiency signs with cold limbs — consider the yang-supporting direction of Jin Gui Shen Qi Wan 金匮肾气丸 instead
- Marked heat from deficiency — add Zhi Mu 知母 and Huang Bai 黄柏
- Dry cough prominent — add Mai Men Dong — the formula then becomes Mai Wei Di Huang Wan
Contraindications
Not for acute asthma or breathlessness from phlegm, fluid retention or an exterior invasion — astringing herbs would hold the pathogen in. Sudden or severe breathlessness needs urgent medical assessment.
For licensed practitioners’ reference only — not a self-treatment guide.
Pregnancy
Generally compatible in pregnancy where the pattern is clear; the formula is enriching and astringing with no harsh herbs. Breathlessness in pregnancy should always be assessed medically first.
Related Formulas
References
Source Zheng Yin Mai Zhi 《症因脉治》 · Ming
- Classical source as recorded in 《症因脉治》 (public domain).
2. Scheid, Bensky, Ellis & Barolet. Chinese Herbal Medicine: Formulas & Strategies, 2nd ed. — composition & dosage cross-checked.
3. 《方剂学》（全国中医药行业高等教育规划教材）— 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.