When mental overwork exhausts the Heart and the Spleen
Persistent fatigue, light or restless sleep, difficulty concentrating or remembering, reduced appetite… In TCM, when several of these signs appear together, they may be associated with a deficiency of Spleen Qi and Heart Blood, often linked to prolonged fatigue or to excessive thinking.
It is in this context that Gui Pi Tang is traditionally used. Formulated under the Song dynasty by the physician Yan Yonghe (严用和) in the Ji Sheng Fang (《济生方》), then enriched over the centuries, it has become a reference formula for tonifying the Spleen, supporting the Qi, nourishing the Blood and calming the Shen.
Supporting the Spleen to better nourish the Heart
In TCM, the Spleen plays an essential role in the transformation of food and the assimilation of its nutrients, from which the body produces Qi and Blood. When this function weakens, Qi and Blood may become insufficient and the Heart less well nourished. Gui Pi Tang acts precisely on this chain: it first supports the Spleen and the Qi, then helps nourish the Blood and the Heart, so as to gradually calm the Shen.
Tonifies the Spleen and supports the Qi: By supporting the Spleen’s transforming function, the formula helps the body make better use of food and maintain its energy.
Nourishes the Blood and supports the Heart: A better supported Spleen contributes to a better production of Qi and Blood. The formula also brings plants traditionally used to nourish the Blood and the Heart directly.
Calms the Shen and favours sleep: In TCM, when the Heart is sufficiently nourished by the Blood, the Shen can more easily return to calm. The formula thus accompanies a more serene sleep.
Supports memory in times of fatigue: The Heart and the Blood also play a role in mental functions according to TCM. By supporting them, Gui Pi Tang accompanies concentration and memory when fatigue sets in.
