When emotions overflow

Nervousness, emotions close to the surface, tears that come easily, frequent sighing, restless sleep… In TCM, when these signs appear together, they may be associated with a Heart that is not sufficiently nourished and can no longer peacefully “house” the Spirit (Shen). Tradition most often sees in this a slow wearing down, linked to a prolonged period of tension or overwork.

Gan Mai Da Zao Tang, the “Licorice, Wheat and Jujube Decoction”, is one of the smallest and gentlest formulas of the classical canon. It appeared around the year 200, at the end of the Eastern Han, in the Jin Gui Yao Lue (《金匮要略》) by Zhang Zhongjing (张仲景), the most celebrated physician of the Chinese tradition. Originally conceived for women, its use broadened over the centuries, as far as Japanese Kampo medicine, which still uses it under the name Kambakutaisoto.

Nourish to soothe

Where other formulas calm by “anchoring” the Spirit, Gan Mai Da Zao Tang chooses gentleness: its three ingredients, all sweet in flavour, nourish what is lacking, and calm returns of its own accord. It applies a principle from the Su Wen: in the face of tension, sweetness is what releases it.

Soothes the Shen and helps restore calm: Wheat, the central ingredient of the formula in the tradition, nourishes the Heart, the dwelling place of the Spirit (Shen) in TCM.

Nourishes the Heart and supports Qi: Licorice supports Heart Qi and harmonises the centre, while jujube nourishes the Blood.

Supports emotionally sensitive times: By releasing tension and nourishing the Heart, the formula helps you go through periods of nervousness more serenely.

Promotes more peaceful sleep: A soothed Spirit finds rest more easily, and sleep becomes more serene.