What are the functions, effects, and composition of Guizhi Tang?

Gui Zhi Tang (Cinnamon Twig Decoction) typically has functions and effects such as harmonizing the spleen and stomach, relieving spasms and pain, relaxing muscles and promoting circulation, and regulating Ying and Wei defenses. Its formulation may include herbs such as Cinnamon Twig (Gui Zhi), Fried Licorice Root (Zhi Gan Cao), Jujube (Da Zao), Fresh Ginger (Sheng Jiang), and White Peony Root (Shao Yao). The detailed explanation is as follows:

I. Functions and Effects

1. Harmonizing the Spleen and Stomach

Fried Licorice Root and Jujube in Gui Zhi Tang have the function of strengthening the spleen, harmonizing the stomach, and regulating the middle jiao. They can promote digestion and absorption, enhance appetite, and effectively regulate symptoms such as spleen and stomach weakness, poor appetite, and indigestion.

2. Relieving Spasms and Pain

White Peony Root in Gui Zhi Tang has a sour and sweet nature and can relieve spasms and alleviate pain. It is suitable for symptoms such as muscle tension and spastic pain. In addition, Fried Licorice Root also has certain effects in relieving spasms and pain, helping to alleviate gastrointestinal discomfort.

3. Relaxing Muscles and Promoting Circulation

Cinnamon Twig and White Peony Root in Gui Zhi Tang can relax muscles and promote circulation, alleviating muscle tension and pain. It is especially suitable for symptoms such as muscle aches and joint pain caused by invasion of cold and wind pathogenic factors.

4. Warming Yang and Nourishing Deficiency

Cinnamon Twig and Fried Licorice Root in Gui Zhi Tang can warm and tonify heart Yang, enhancing cardiac function. White Peony Root nourishes blood, soothes the liver, and relieves pain caused by spasms. The entire formula is effective in regulating symptoms such as physical weakness, pale complexion, cold extremities, and weak pulse.

5. Regulating Ying and Wei Defenses

Gui Zhi Tang can harmonize the body's Ying and Wei Qi. Among them, Cinnamon Twig and Fresh Ginger warm and promote blood circulation, enhancing Wei Qi, while White Peony Root nourishes blood, consolidates Yin, and regulates Ying Qi. These two work synergistically to maintain balance within the body's internal and external environments.

II. Composition

1. Cinnamon Twig (Gui Zhi): It has effects of inducing sweating, relaxing muscles, warming and unblocking meridians, and assisting Yang to transform Qi. It is the main herb in Gui Zhi Tang that promotes muscle relaxation, induces sweating, and harmonizes Ying and Wei.

2. Fried Licorice Root (Zhi Gan Cao): Harmonizes the properties of other herbs. Combined with Cinnamon Twig, it transforms pungent and sweet flavors into Yang to strengthen Wei Qi; combined with White Peony Root, it transforms sour and sweet flavors into Yin to nourish Ying Qi. Fried Licorice Root in Gui Zhi Tang plays a role in harmonizing all the herbs and enhancing therapeutic effects.

3. Jujube (Da Zao): Sweet and neutral in nature, it works with White Peony Root to nourish Ying Qi and also strengthens the spleen and boosts Qi. Jujube fortifies the spleen and stomach, generates Qi and body fluids, nourishes Ying Qi, supports Wei Qi, and enhances Gui Zhi Tang's ability to harmonize Ying and Wei.

4. Fresh Ginger (Sheng Jiang): Pungent and warm in nature, it assists Cinnamon Twig in expelling exterior pathogens and harmonizes the stomach to stop vomiting. The dispersing effect of Fresh Ginger enhances the diaphoretic effect of Gui Zhi Tang and simultaneously harmonizes the stomach and alleviates symptoms of dry vomiting.

5. White Peony Root (Shao Yao): Paired with Cinnamon Twig, it harmonizes Ying and Wei while also relieving spasms and pain. White Peony Root nourishes blood, soothes the liver, and plays an important role in alleviating muscle tension and pain.

Additionally, it is recommended to maintain a healthy lifestyle, ensure adequate sleep, improve dietary habits, regulate physical condition, and maintain overall health.