Gui Pi Tang

Functions

Qui Pi Tang replenishes qi to invigorate the spleen and nourish the heart to calm the mind. It is mainly used to treat symptoms such as shortness of breath with heart palpitations, insomnia with frequent dreams, dizziness and weakness, small appetite, metrorrhagia and metrostaxis, bloody stools due to deficiencies in both the spleen and heart, and insufficiency in blood circulation.

Dosage Info

Decoction: one dose per day, in boiling water administered twice a day. Pills: water pills 6g once a day, small honey pill 9g once a day, big honey pill 1 piece once, twice a day, taken with water. 5:1 concentrated extract: 9grams/day

Ingredients

Precautions

Raw and cold foods were prohibited during treatment. The formula is contraindicated for those with heat pathogen remaining internally or yin deficiency with tachycardia.

Pharmacology

Anti-oxidation: Gui Pi Tang significantly suppressed lipid peroxide formation in treated mice brain and liver and lipofuscin formation in mice brain. The SOD activity in mice was increased at concentrations of 15g/kg and 30g/kg. As the dosage increased, the tendency of promoting LAT activity of mice erythrocytes increased. The activity of cholinesterase in the treated mice blood and brain was significantly inhibited. (1)

Improve memory: The effect on mice memory behavior was observed by methods of jumping over plates, escaping from dark, and water maze boxes. This demonstrated that the capability of the mice memory was improved by endogastric infusion of 15.0g (raw herbs)/kg of the formula. This formula can reduce the antagonizing effects of scopolamine on the mice memory capability. (2)

Modified Gui Pi Tang can improve memory defects in aged mice. Muscarine induced cholinergic receptor activity and CAT activity in the mice forebrain and cerebral cortex markedly increased. (3)

Affect on immunology and reaction to stress: This decoction and the ethanol extract of it, may promote the phagocyte cellular functions and reactions to stress. (4) It has been demonstrated that in mice, the time period of swimming was prolonged. These results showed tolerance to anoxia, low and high temperatures. (5)

Counteracting a gastric ulcer: The inhibitory effects of Gui Pi Tang on acute stress ulcers and ulcer formation by reserpine were significant, but it was not effective on pylorus ligature ulcer formations. There was not any effect on amount of gastric juice secretion or excretion of pepsin. This mechanism of anti-ulcer effectiveness is perhaps related to inhibition of the central nervous system. (6)

Gui Pi Tang used singly or in combination, can inhibit gastric evacuation in mice with Da Huang induced spleen deficiency, as shown in the increase of the methyl orange residual rate. (7)

Counteracting anemia: The hemoglobin content in hemorrhagic anemic mice may be increased by this formula. (8) Hemoglobin and erythrocyte count in the mice model with a deficiency in blood may be increased by granular form of Gui Pi Tang used in either large or moderate dosage. Sleep time in mice was prolonged when Gui Pi Tang was administered. Mice spontaneous motility time and forelimb lifting time was reduced. The Concentration of specific antibody (hemolysin) increased and swimming time and survival period in anoxia was prolonged. (9)

Other effects: When administered orally to mice, Gui Pi Tang did not result in any toxic effects on the pregnant mice or any lethal and teratogenic effects on the fetus. (10)

Clinical Applications

Treating anemia
19 cases of iron deficiency anemia were treated by Gui Pi Tang, which included Ren Shen (Ginseng), Zhi Bai Zhu (processed White Atractylodes), Radix Astragali seu Hadysari, Fu Ling (Poria), Zhi Yuan Zhi (processed Polygala), Chao Suan Zao Ren (cooked Zizyphus), Long Yan Rou (Longan Aril), Dang Gui (Chinese Angelica Root), Mu Xiang (Saussurea), Gan Cao (Licorice), Da Zao (Jujube), and Sheng Jiang (Ginger). The results showed that 4 cases had significantly improved, 11 cases had somewhat improved, and 4 cases had no improvement. The total effectiveness rate was 79%. (11)

3 cases of aplastic anemia were treated with a modification of Gui Pi Tang. The formula consisted of Dang Gui (Chinese Angelica Root), Bai Zhu (White Atractylodes), Long Yan Rou (Longan Aril), Han Lian Cao (Eclipta), Gou Qi Zi (Lycium Fruit), Lu Jiao Jiao (Antler Glue), Hong Shen (Ginseng), Fu Ling (Poria), Yuan Zhi (Polygala), Chao Suan Zao Ren (cooked Zizyphus), Ba Ji Tian (Morinda), Zhi Huang Qi (processed Astragalus Root), Xian He Cao (Agrimony), Mu Xiang (Saussurea), Gan Cao (Licorice), Sheng Jiang (Ginger), and Da Zao (Jujube). It was taken as 1 dose of the decoction a day, in three separate administrations. 14 doses resulted in full recovery. (12)

32 cases of iron deficiency anemia were treated with modified Gui Pi Tang. It consisted of the following single herbs: Dang Shen (Codonopsis), Bai Zhu (White Atractylodes), Fu Ling (Poria), Dang Gui (Chinese Angelica Root), Yuan Zhi (Polygala), E Jiao (Gelatin), Lu Jiao Jiao (Antler Glue), and Gan Cao (Licorice). The formula was taken one dose per day. The herbs were decocted twice to a total volume of 150ml. The mixture was then divided into two portions for separate administrations. After 3 months of treatment, 13 cases had significantly improved, 17 cases had somewhat improved, and 2 cases had no improvement. The total effectiveness rate was 93.75%. (13)

Modified Gui Pi Tang was used to treat 86 cases of senile anemia. The formula consisted of Huang Qi (Astragalus), Dang Shen (Codonopsis), Fu Ling (Poria), Dang Gui (Chinese Angelica Root), Suan Zao Ren (Zizyphus), Tu Si Zi (Cuscuta), Yin Yang Huo (Epimedium), Bai Zhu (White Atractylodes), Yuan Zhi (Polygala), Long Yan Rou (Longan Aril), Mu Xiang (Saussurea), Lu Jiao Jiao (Antler Glue), Gan Cao (Licorice), Rou Gui (Cinnamon Bark), Sheng Jiang (Ginger), and Da Zao (Jujube). The formula was taken one dose a day. 30 days constituted one course of treatment. The results showed that 45 cases fully recovered, 33 cases were improved, and 8 cases were not affected. The total effectiveness rate was 90.7%. (14)

Gui Pi Tang was used to treat 31 cases of anemia caused by a hookworm infection. The herbs used included Bai Zhu (White Atractylodes), Fu Ling (Poria), Suan Zao Ren (Zizyphus), Dang Gui (Chinese Angelica Root), Dang Shen (Codonopsis), Long Yan Rou (Longan Aril), Huang Qi (Astragalus), Yuan Zhi (Polygala), Mu Xiang (Saussurea), Gan Cao (Licorice), Sheng Jiang (Ginger), and Da Zao (Jujube). An anti-parasitic treatment was used in combination. The formula was taken one dose per day. 7 days constituted one course of treatment. After 1 to 3 courses, the total effectiveness rate was 83.9%. All patients were able to return to their normal daily life. (15)

Treating visual fatigue
Modified Gui Pi Tang was used to treat 40 cases of visual fatigue. For severe spleen deficiency, dosages for Dang Shen (Codonopsis), Bai Zhu (White Atractylodes), and Huang Qi (Astragalus Root) were increased, and the single herbs Chen Pi (Citrus) and Shen Qu (Leaven) were added. For heart deficiency, dosages for Dang Shen (Codonopsis), Suan Zao Ren (Zizyphus), and Dang Gui (Chinese Angelica Root) were increased. For swollen and painful eyes, Chuan Xiong (Cnidium) and Shi Jue Ming (Haliotis) were added. For dry eyes, either Dang Gui’s (Chinese Angelica Root) dosage was increased, or Bai Shao (White Peony Root) and Sheng Di Huang (Rehmannia) were added. The results showed that 21 cases had fully recovered, 5 cases had significant improvement, and 4 cases had no improvement. The total effectiveness rate was 90%. (16)

Treating arrhythmia
Modified Gui Pi Tang was used to treat 26 cases of arrhythmia. The formula contained Dang Gui (Chinese Angelica Root), Dang Shen (Codonopsis), Bai Zhu (White Atractylodes), Huang Qi (Astragalus), Fu Ling (Poria), Yuan Zhi (Polygala), Suan Zao Ren (Zizyphus), Bo Zi Ren (Biota seed), Dan Shen (Salvia), and Zhi Gan Cao (processed Licorice). The formula was modified according to the individual’s symptoms. One dose of the decoction was administered per day. After 1 to 2 treatment courses, 14 cases had significant improvement, 4 cases had improved, and 5 cases had no improvement. (17)

Treating delayed menstrual period after endometrial placement of ring
50 cases were treated with modified Gui Pi Tang. This formula included Huang Qi (Astragalus Root), Dang Shen (Codonopsis), Bai Zhu (White Atractylodes), Chao Suan Zao Ren (cooked Zizyphus), Xu Duan (Dipsacus), Dang Gui (Chinese Angelica Root), Xian He Cao (Agrimony), and Qian Cao (Madder). The formula was administered one week before the start of the menstrual period and continued for one week. One course of treatment consisted of 3 menstrual cycles. After 1 to 2 courses of treatment, 38 cases were resolved, 10 cases had improved, and 2 cases had no improvement. The total effectiveness rate was 96%. (18)

Treatment on cardiac neurosis
69 cases of cardiac neurosis were treated with a modification of Gui Pi Tang. After treatment, 42 cases were resolved, 24 cases had improved, and no effects were seen in 3 cases. The total effectiveness rate was 95.65%. (19)

Treatment for pain in duodenal ulcer
32 cases of duodenal ulcers were treated with a modification of Gui Pi Tang. The ingredients of this formula included Dang Shen (Codonopsis), Fu Ling (Poria), Suan Zao Ren (Zizyphus), Huang Qi (Astragalus Root), Dang Gui (Chinese Angelica Root), Bai Zhu (White Atractylodes), Long Yan Rou (Longan Aril), Mu Xiang (Saussurea), Yuan Zhi (Polygala), and Gan Cao (Licorice). The formula was modified according to the individual’s symptoms. It was administered one does of a decoction per day. 25 cases in control group were treated by oral administration 0.15g of Ranitidine, twice a day. One course of treatment consisted of 15 days. The results for the treatment and control groups were, respectively: 24 and 5 cases were resolved, 8 and 15 cases had a significant improvement, and 0 and 5 cases had no improvement. The total effectiveness rates were 100% and 80%. (20)

Treating functional uterine hemorrhage
30 cases of uterine hemorrhages were treated with modified Gui Pi Tang. The formula contained Bai Zhu (White Atractylodes), Suan Zao Ren (Zizyphus), Dang Shen (Codonopsis), Huang Qi (Astragalus Root), Xian He Cao (Agrimony), Fu Ling (Poria), Dang Gui (Chinese Angelica Root), Yuan Zhi (Polygala), Zhi Gan Cao (processed Licorice), Long Yan Rou (Longan Aril), and Di Yu (prepared Sanguisorba). The formula was modified according to the individual’s symptoms. It was taken one dose of a decoction per day, divided into 3 administrations. The results showed that 21 cases were resolved, 7 cases improved, and 2 cases did not recover. (21)

References

Wu Chun Fu, et al. Gui Pi Tangâ€™s anti-oxidation effects. China Journal of Chinese Medicine (Beijing). 1991;16(12):752-753.
Yu Qing Hai, et al. Experimental pharmacological research on Gui Pi Tang. Journal of Shengyang College of Pharmacy. 1992;9(1):41-45,57.
Yang Wei, et al. Studying Chinese herbsâ€™ function in promoting memory by looking at cholinergic activity. Journal of Shaanxi College of TCM. 1995;18(3):33-34.
Shao Jin Ying, et al. Pharmacological effects of Shi Quan Da Bu Tang, Ji Ju Di Huang Wan, and Gui Pi Tang. Journal of Pharmacology and Clinical Application of TCM. 1990;6(5):4-5.
Qin Kui, et al. Experimental research on Gui Pi Tangâ€™s effects on mice anti-stress functions. Journal of Chinese Patented Medicine. 1996;18(12):28-30.
Zhang Chong Yi, et al. Experimental research on Gui Pi Tangâ€™s effects in counteracting gastric ulcer. Tianjin Journal of TCM. 1995;12(4):28-29.
Cui Jin Chao, et al. Comparative research on pharmacological effects of Gui Pi Tang that is decocted as a mixture, and Gui Pi Tang whose ingredients were decocted individually. Journal of Pharmacology and Clinical Application of TCM. 1998;14(3):6-8.
Cui Jin Chao, et al. Comparative research on pharmacological effects of Gui Pi Tang that is decocted as a mixture, and Gui Pi Tang whose ingredients were decocted individually. Journal of Pharmacology and Clinical Application of TCM. 1998;14(3):6-8.
Dai Shi Wen, et al. Therapeutic research on Gui Pi Capsules. Journal of New Chinese Medicine and Clinical Pharmacology. 1999;10(3):175-176.
Zhang Zhi Jun. Effects of Chinese formula on rat fetal organ development. Foreign Medicine (TCM vol.). 1998;20(6):6-8.
Li Ming Dong. Using Gui Pi Tang to treat Iron deficiency induced anemia. Journal of Chinese Patented Medicine Research. 1987;(5):20.
Liu Ming Wu. Treating three cases of aplastic anemia with modified Gui Pi Tang. Heilongiang Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Pharmacology. 1990;(2):40.
Fang Chao Hui. Treating 32 cases of iron deficiency induced anemia with modified Gui Pi Tang. Shanxi Journal of TCM. 1997;13(2):14-15.
Ma Ai Ping, et al. Treating 86 cases of senile anemia with modified Gui Pi Tang. National Journal of Medicine Forum. 2000;15(4):28.
Hong Yu Diao, et al. Treating 31 cases of anemia caused by hookworm infection with Gui Pi Tang. Fujian Journal of Chinese Medicine. 2000;31(2):53-54.
Chen Wen Fu, et al. Treating 40 cases of visual fatique with modified Gui Pi Tang. Journal of Shizhen Medicinal Material Research. 1998;9(1):43-44.
Hu Guo Long, et al. Treating 26 cases of cardiac arrhythmia with modified Gui Pi Tang. Sichuan Journal of TCM. 1999;17(4):31.
Wang Li Han. Treating 50 cases of lengthened menstrual period after endometrial placement of ring with modified Gui Pi Tang. Yunnan Journal of TCM and Chinese Drug. 1999;20(3):28.
Fan Hong Tao. Treating 69 cases of cardioneurosis with modified Gui Pi Tang. Journal of Yunnan College of TCM. 1999;22(2): 33-34.
Huang Sheng Wei. Clinical observation on Gui Pi Tang treating duodenal ulcer. Journal of Gansu College of TCM. 1999;16(3):21-22.
Lin Yao Chu. Treating 30 cases of functional uterine hemorrhage with modified Gui Pi Tang. Fujian Journal of Chinese Medicine. 1999;30(6):30-31.