What traditional Chinese patent medicines are recommended for deficiency of both liver and kidney?

Modern lifestyles often involve staying up late, irregular sleep schedules, and diets heavy in spicy and stimulating foods—factors that easily impair liver and kidney function. So, what traditional Chinese patent medicines are suitable for deficiency of both liver and kidney? Below is a detailed explanation.

Which Traditional Chinese Patent Medicines Are Suitable for Liver-Kidney Deficiency?

1. Mingmu Dihuang Wan (Bright-Eyes Rehmannia Pill)

Its primary actions are nourishing yin, tonifying the liver and kidneys, and improving vision. It is indicated for individuals with liver-kidney yin deficiency, effectively alleviating symptoms such as dry eyes, blurred vision, photophobia, and excessive tearing—especially when triggered by light or wind. However, individuals with an inherently “excess-fire” constitution—e.g., those presenting with red, inflamed eyes—even if they experience photophobia or tearing, should avoid taking Mingmu Dihuang Wan.

2. Guishao Dihuang Wan (Angelica-Paeonia Rehmannia Pill)

Its main ingredients include Angelica sinensis (Danggui), Poria cocos (Fuling), Prepared Rehmannia glutinosa (Shudihuang), Paeonia lactiflora (Baishao), Cornus officinalis (Shanzhuyu), Alisma orientale (Zexie), Moutan cortex (Danpi), and Dioscorea opposita (Shanyao). It is indicated for individuals with dual liver-kidney deficiency, particularly those exhibiting yin deficiency and qi-blood insufficiency, manifesting as dizziness, blurred vision, tinnitus, lumbago, leg pain, or heel pain. Guishao Dihuang Wan offers effective symptomatic relief. However, it is contraindicated during common colds or febrile illnesses. Patients with hypertension, diabetes, or impaired hepatic or renal function must consult a physician before use.

3. Qiju Dihuang Wan (Lycium-Chrysanthemum Rehmannia Pill)

Its principal actions are nourishing the liver and kidneys. It is indicated for individuals with liver-kidney deficiency, effectively relieving symptoms including tinnitus, vertigo, photophobia, blurred vision, and wind-induced lacrimation. It is especially appropriate for middle-aged and older adults. Younger adults or children presenting with these symptoms should seek professional medical evaluation rather than self-medicating. No significant adverse reactions or side effects have been reported to date; however, individuals with spleen deficiency or cold-dampness in the stomach—manifesting as chronic diarrhea or loose stools—should avoid this formula, as it may exacerbate their condition.

4. Zibuxinggan Wan (Liver-Kidney Tonifying Pill)

Its primary actions are nourishing yin, tonifying the kidneys, protecting the liver, and enriching the blood. It is indicated for individuals with liver-kidney yin deficiency—e.g., those experiencing palpitations, dizziness, low back pain, fatigue, insomnia, or low-grade fever—and is highly suitable for regulating such conditions. Additionally, patients with chronic hepatitis or nephritis who present with the aforementioned symptoms may also benefit from Zibuxinggan Wan. Prior to ingestion, remove the wax coating and plastic shell from the pill. During treatment, avoid raw, cold foods.

5. Xiaoyao Wan (Free-and-Easy Wanderer Pill)

Its primary actions are soothing liver qi, strengthening the spleen, nourishing blood, regulating qi flow, and harmonizing menstruation. It is indicated for individuals with constrained liver qi and impaired free flow of qi—particularly women suffering from menstrual irregularities, dizziness, or chest discomfort due to liver qi stagnation and blood deficiency. Men with similar patterns of liver qi constraint may also benefit. Note: Women with heavy menstrual bleeding and individuals with active colds or febrile illnesses should avoid this formula. During treatment, avoid cold and cooling foods.

6. Chaihu Shugan Wan (Bupleurum Liver-Soothing Pill)

Its main ingredients include Bupleurum chinense (Chaihu), Saposhnikovia divaricata (Fangfeng), Rheum palmatum (Dahuang), Magnolia officinalis (Houpo), Lindera aggregata (Wuyao), Paeonia lactiflora (Baishao), Citrus aurantium (Zhike), Scutellaria baicalensis (Huangqin), Amomum kravanh (Dokou), Sparganium stoloniferum (Sanling), Curcuma zedoaria (Ezhu), Angelica sinensis (Danggui), Platycodon grandiflorus (Jiegeng), Aucklandia lappa (Muxiang), and Pinellia ternata (Jiangbanxia). It is indicated for individuals with liver qi constraint, especially those experiencing chest tightness, oppression, indigestion, or even nausea and vomiting. Chaihu Shugan Wan helps regulate liver qi and alleviate these symptoms. Patients with hypertension or compromised hepatic or renal function must consult a physician before initiating therapy.

The above outlines commonly used traditional Chinese patent medicines for liver-kidney deficiency. We hope this information proves helpful to you.