When fatigue pales the complexion and unsettles rest
Lasting fatigue, a pale complexion, a modest appetite, easily winded at the slightest effort, sensitivity to cold, light sleep and a mind that worries over the smallest thing… In TCM, these signs can be associated with a combined Deficiency of Qi and Blood, rooted in the Spleen and the Lung. The Spleen, source of Qi and Blood, no longer transforms food well enough; Blood runs short, and the Heart, which houses the Shen (Spirit), is no longer properly nourished.
Yang Rong means “nourishing the Nourishing”: rong (荣) here refers to the nourishing Qi, which circulates with the Blood in the vessels. The formula first appeared as Yang Rong Tang in the San Yin Ji Yi Bing Zheng Fang Lun (《三因极一病证方论》) by Chen Yan (陈言), in 1174, under the Southern Song. It then entered the Tai Ping Hui Min He Ji Ju Fang (《太平惠民和剂局方》), where it received its full name, Ren Shen Yang Rong Tang. Yang Rong Wan is its pill form.
Ten herbs, minus one, plus three
Tradition reads this formula from Shi Quan Da Bu Tang: Sichuan lovage, which moves the Blood vigorously, is removed, because the aim here is to nourish quietly; tangerine peel, polygala and schisandra are added. According to tradition, Qi commands the Blood: when the Qi returns, the Blood follows.
Tonifies the Qi and Blood: Codonopsis and astragalus support the Qi of the Spleen and Lung, while prepared rehmannia, Chinese angelica and white peony nourish the Blood directly.
Nourishes the Blood and supports the Heart: Polygala and schisandra, the two additions specific to the formula, calm the Shen. A better-nourished Heart welcomes it more peacefully.
Gently warms the body: Cinnamon and dried ginger bring a gentle warmth that sets the nourishing herbs in motion.
Supports you through periods of fatigue: By replenishing Qi and Blood without heaviness, the formula accompanies the gradual return of strength. Tangerine peel sees to this by moving the Qi of the centre: this is the principle of tonifying without causing stagnation (补而不滞).
