191 NU KE BA ZHEN WAN

NU KE BA ZHEN WAN – Traditional Herbal Formula According to the Principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)

Traditional Use According to TCM:

• Tonifies Qi

• Supports the movement and nourishment of Blood

Formula Description (TCM Perspective):
This traditional herbal blend is used in TCM in situations associated with simultaneous Qi and Blood deficiency, often following periods of physical or mental exhaustion, convalescence, or postpartum recovery. It is typically selected when signs observed through TCM diagnostics suggest an imbalance involving both vital energy and Blood.

Traditional Understanding of Composition:

• Emperor herbs: Dang Shen (traditionally supports Qi) and Shu Di Huang (traditionally nourishes Blood)

• Minister herbs: Bai Zhu and Fu Ling – support the Spleen and help regulate internal moisture, assisting the Qi-tonifying effects

• Additional ministers: Bai Shao and Dang Gui – traditionally associated with Blood nourishment

• Assistants:

  • Chuan Xiong – traditionally used to activate Blood and move Qi

  • Zhi Gan Cao – harmonizes the formula and supports the middle burner (digestive center)

Contraindications (TCM Perspective):
Not traditionally used when internal Dampness or accumulation is predominant, especially related to Spleen imbalance.

Main Traditional Focus:

• Recovery after illness

• Postpartum restoration

• Traditionally referenced in the context of supporting natural postpartum processes

Note:
This herbal blend is designed to support overall constitutional balance rather than targeting specific symptoms or conditions. For example, although its traditional use may be referenced in relation to lactation, the formula does not exert any hormonal effects. Instead, in the TCM view, it supports the body's natural ability to function according to its current needs.

Suggested Use (Based on TCM Practice):
Take 8 pills, 3 times daily as needed—especially during convalescence or increased physical/mental demand. Duration may vary depending on the individual constitution and the balance of Qi and Blood.

Modern Viewpoint:
NU KE BA ZHEN WAN is a well-balanced combination of eight herbs, forming a union of two classical formulas. Four of the herbs traditionally focus on nourishing the Blood (“Yin-type nourishment”), while the other four support functional activity (“Yang-type energy”). Many of the included botanicals are now classified as adaptogens—plants that help the body adapt to physical or emotional challenges.

Combination with Other Formulas:
Since this formula is a combination of No. 151 and No. 161, it can also be paired with either one to emphasize specific support—Qi or Blood—according to the individual situation. In TCM practice, it may also be combined with other traditional formulas for addressing associated factors such as fatigue, restlessness, or low resilience.

Author and Historical Origin:
The formula is attributed to Dr. Bi Lizhai and first published in Zheng Ti Lei Yao (1529).

Packaging:
200 pills (approx. 33 g)