Gan Mai Da Zao Tang — Licorice, Wheat and Jujube Decoction
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Overview
Gan Mai Da Zao Tang — Licorice, Wheat and Jujube Decoction — is composed of only three ingredients, yet it is one of the most clinically effective formulas for emotional and psychological distress. It originates from Zhang Zhongjing’s Jin Gui Yao Lue and was specifically described for “Zang Zao” — “visceral agitation” — a condition of emotional instability, crying spells and restlessness that modern practitioners recognise in states of intense emotional exhaustion, grief and severe anxiety. It is gentle enough to use in children.
TCM pattern
Prescribed for Heart and Spleen deficiency with loss of nourishment of the Heart-Mind (Shen), characterised by: frequent crying without clear reason, emotional lability, restlessness, insomnia, inability to control speech or behaviour in emotional states, occasional yawning, a pale tongue, and a thin pulse.
Key herbs
- Gan Cao (Glycyrrhiza uralensis root) — tonifies Qi and nourishes the Heart; the principal herb and the largest component of the formula
- Xiao Mai (Triticum aestivum wheat grain) — nourishes the Heart Yin and calms the Shen; a food-medicine with specific affinity for the Heart
- Da Zao (Ziziphus jujuba fruit) — nourishes Blood and Spleen Qi, calms the Shen and harmonises the formula
Conditions treated
- Depression — particularly the tearful, emotionally exhausted type with frequent crying and lability
- Postnatal depression and emotional instability after childbirth
- Grief and bereavement reactions with uncontrolled crying
- Anxiety and panic with emotional volatility from Heart Yin and Blood deficiency
- Menopausal emotional instability and mood swings
- Insomnia with vivid dreams and restless sleep from Heart Yin deficiency
Cautions
Always consult a qualified Chinese herbalist registered with the Register of Chinese Herbal Medicine (RCHM). Online herbal consultations are available. See the prices page for costs.
