Formulas that Calm the Spirit (安神剂)

Shen-calming formulas address restlessness, anxiety, insomnia and emotional disturbance. Divided into anchoring (heavy minerals) and nourishing (Blood and Yin tonics with Shen-calming herbs).

Sub-categories

1. Heavy mineral anchoring — Zhu Sha An Shen Wan (modified, no mercury), Ci Zhu Wan
2. Nourish Heart Yin and calm Shen — Tian Wang Bu Xin Dan, Suan Zao Ren Tang
3. Nourish Heart-Spleen — Gui Pi Tang, Gan Mai Da Zao Tang

Representative formulas in this category

1. Tian Wang Bu Xin Dan — Heart-Kidney Yin deficiency
2. Suan Zao Ren Tang — Liver Blood deficiency insomnia
3. Gan Mai Da Zao Tang — Restless Organ disorder (emotional lability)
4. Bai Zi Ren Wan — Heart-Kidney disharmony with insomnia
5. An Shen Ding Zhi Wan — Heart-Gallbladder Qi deficiency

Browse the full formula directory for over 260 individual formula pages.

When this category is used

Formulas that Calm the Spirit are typically prescribed for: insomnia, anxiety, palpitations, emotional lability, PTSD, restless mind. The choice of specific formula within the category is determined by precise Eight Principles pattern differentiation in clinical consultation.

About prescribing

Chinese herbal formulas are dispensed by qualified practitioners following individual TCM diagnosis. The herbs I prescribe are pharmaceutical-grade granules from Sun Ten in Taiwan, tested to the highest international quality and safety standards. Online consultations are available throughout the UK and worldwide.

Return to the Chinese herbal medicine main page or browse individual herbs.