Gui Zhi Shao Yao Zhi Mu Tang 桂枝芍药知母汤
Cinnamon Twig, Peony, and Anemarrhena Decoction

Tradition:

TCM

Source / Author:

Discussion of Cold Induced Disorders (Shang Han Lun) C.220

Preparation:

Decoction; Aconite should be cooked for 45–60 minutes before adding other medicines.

Function:

Opens obstructions, clears Wind and Damp, promotes flow of Yang Qi

Use:

Swelling and pain of the joints, especially in the lower body, worse at night, stiffness and poor movement of affected joints, chills, headache, greasy tongue coat, weak or slippery pulse.
1. Arthritis
2. Rheumatoid Arthritis
3. Sciatica
4. Peri-arthritis of Shoulders
5. Connective tissue diseases

Dose:

The above can be taken in 2 doses over the course of the day
Commonly used in Pill or Powder form in a dose of 6 grams 2–3 times daily.

Cautions:

None noted

Modifications:

1. Severe Cold, increase the dose of Aconite and add Cinnamon bark (Rou Gui)
2. Severe Damp, increase the dose of Atractylodes Bai Zhu and add Poria Fu Ling and Alisma Ze Xie
3. Damp-Heat pain of the lower body, add Phellodendron Huang Bai, Gypsum (Shi Gao)
4. For pain that worsens at night, substitute Red Peony (Chi Shao) for White Peony (Bai Shao) and add Paeonia Mu Dan Pi.
5. Yin deficiency, add Rehmannia Sheng Di Huang and Achyranthes Niu Xi
6. Severe Qi deficiency, add Ginseng (Ren Shen)
7. With Bloiod stasis, add Frankincense (Ru Xiang), Myrrh (Mo Yao), Safflower (Hong Hua)
8. Poor appetite, add Citrus Chen Pi and Costus Mu Xiang
9. Rheumatoid Arthritis with marked weakness, add Astragalus Huang Qi
10. Paralysis, add Ginseng and Earthworm (Di Long)

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