Shen Fu Tang — Ginseng & Aconite Decoction

On this page

1. Overview
2. TCM pattern
3. Key herbs
4. Formula actions
5. Conditions treated
6. Cautions

Overview

Shen Fu Tang — Ginseng and Aconite Decoction — is from the Song-dynasty Zheng Ti Lei Yao. It is one of the most heroic and dramatic formulas in TCM, used to rescue collapsed Yang and Qi in critical conditions. Just two herbs — Ren Shen (the most powerful Qi tonic) and Fu Zi (the most powerful Yang tonic) — combined in large doses to reverse imminent collapse.

The formula is used in TCM hospital emergency settings for cardiogenic shock, hypotensive shock, congestive heart failure with cold extremities, and other states of Yang-Qi collapse. It is not an outpatient or self-prescribed formula.

This formula is presented here for educational completeness; it is used in TCM hospital practice alongside conventional emergency care.

TCM pattern

Shen Fu Tang is prescribed for sudden Yang and Qi collapse:

• Sudden severe weakness or prostration
• Cold extremities, possibly bluish
• Cold profuse sweating
• Pallor
• Confused or reduced consciousness
• Shortness of breath
• Very feeble pulse, possibly almost absent
• Pale or cyanosed tongue

Key herbs

1. Ren Shen (large dose) — rescues Yuan Qi
2. Fu Zi (prepared aconite, large dose) — rescues Yang

Formula actions

1. Rescues collapsed Yang
2. Powerfully tonifies Yuan Qi
3. Restores warmth and consciousness

Conditions treated

1. Cardiogenic shock — in TCM hospital settings, alongside conventional intensive care
2. Hypotensive shock in any cause
3. Severe congestive heart failure with cold-pattern presentation
4. Postpartum collapse from blood loss
5. End-stage Yang collapse in chronic illness

Cautions

This is a heroic emergency formula. Used only in hospital settings by experienced practitioners alongside conventional emergency medicine. Acute shock and collapse are medical emergencies — call 999.

Contains Fu Zi (prepared aconite), a toxic herb that requires correct processing and dosing.

Strictly contraindicated in any Heat pattern, Yin deficiency, pregnancy, or in conditions other than acute Yang collapse.

This page is for educational reference only.

Always consult a qualified Chinese herbalist registered with the RCHM.

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