Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang
In traditional TCM context, Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang (补中益气汤) is a classic herbal formula. It is traditionally used to tonifies the Middle Jiao, benefits Qi, raises the Yang. Treats Spleen Qi Sinking with fatigue, poor appetite, chronic diarrhea, and a sensation of bearing down.
At a Glance
Traditional TCM Context
Classic formula · 6 ingredients
Tonifies the Middle Jiao, benefits Qi, raises the Yang. Treats Spleen Qi Sinking with fatigue, poor appetite, chronic diarrhea, and a sensation of bearing down.
Direct Modern Evidence
0 exact formula papers
No direct research on this exact formula is currently linked in this library.
Safety Notes
Formula-specific safety information is limited
Formula-specific safety information is limited. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Traditional TCM Perspective
Traditional Formula Role
A Li Dongyuan formula for Spleen Qi Sinking. Tonifies Middle Jiao Qi, raises Yang Qi, and lifts what has sunk. Used for chronic digestive weakness, organ prolapse, and fatigue.
Core TCM Functions
Tonifies the Middle Jiao, benefits Qi, raises the Yang. Treats Spleen Qi Sinking with fatigue, poor appetite, chronic diarrhea, and a sensation of bearing down.
What Current Research Does—and Does Not—Show
TCMIO has not identified direct human research on the complete formula in its current reference set. Evidence relating to individual herbs, formula variants, or traditional use should not be treated as evidence for the complete formula.
Safety & Boundaries
Formula-Specific Safety Notes
Formula-specific safety information is limited. Consult a qualified professional before use.
General Safety Boundary
- TCMIO provides educational information only — not medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment recommendations.
- Formula-level safety profiles may differ from individual herb profiles. Consult a qualified TCM practitioner for individualized guidance.
- For herb-specific safety information, see the individual herb profiles: Dang Shen, Bai Zhu, Gan Cao, Chen Pi and others.
Formula Composition
The following herbs compose Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang according to traditional formula structure. Roles are labeled in Traditional Formula Context.
Click any herb to view its full detail page.
Dang Shen
党参
Codonopsis pilosula
Tonifies Middle Jiao Qi, strengthens the Spleen, nourishes Blood, generates Fluids. Gentler substitute for Ren Shen.
Bai Zhu
白术
Atractylodes macrocephala
Tonifies Qi, strengthens the Spleen, dries Dampness, promotes water metabolism, stabilizes the Exterior.
Gan Cao
甘草
Glycyrrhiza uralensis
Tonifies Spleen Qi, clears heat, detoxifies, moderates other herbs
Chen Pi
陈皮
Citrus reticulata
Regulates Qi, strengthens the Spleen, dries Dampness, transforms Phlegm. Classic herb for digestive Stagnation.
Sheng Jiang
生姜
Zingiberis Rhizoma Recens
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, Sheng Jiang is classified as a warm, pungent herb that Releases the Exterior, disperses Cold, warms the Middle Jiao, stops vomiting, and resolves Phlegm. These functions are described within the framework of TCM pattern differentiation and reflect traditional clinical categorization, not modern pharmacological mechanisms.
Ban Xia
半夏
Pinellia ternata
Dries Dampness, transforms Phlegm, directs rebellious Qi downward, stops vomiting, dissipates nodules. Core herb in Ban Xia Xie Xin Tang.
Traditional Formula Context: Ingredient roles (Chief/Deputy/Assistant/Envoy) reflect traditional TCM formulary theory. These classifications are educational and do not constitute modern pharmacological ranking.
Related Knowledge
Related Symptoms(3)
Related TCM Patterns(3)
Related Herbs(6)
Related Conditions(2)
Sources(2)
- 1.
Chinese Pharmacopoeia Commission. Chinese Pharmacopoeia 2020 Edition — Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang. Chinese Pharmacopoeia 2020, Vol. I. 2020.
Bibliographic details
Reliability: official
Source type: official_compendium
- 2.
Li Dongyuan (Li Gao). Li DY. Pi Wei Lun (Treatise on the Spleen and Stomach). 1249 CE.. 1249.
Bibliographic details
Reliability: classic
Source type: classical_text
Medical Disclaimer: The information on TCMIO is provided for educational purposes only. It is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using any herbal products, starting any new treatment, or making changes to your existing healthcare regimen. Do not stop or modify any prescribed treatment without consulting your healthcare provider.
If you are experiencing severe or urgent symptoms, seek immediate medical attention by calling emergency services or visiting the nearest emergency department.