Sheng Mai San — Generate the Pulse Powder

Overview

Sheng Mai San — Generate the Pulse Powder — is a three-herb formula that simultaneously tonifies Qi, nourishes Yin and astringes leakage of vital fluids and energy. Its name refers to its classical indication of a pulse so depleted that it has nearly disappeared. First recorded in the Jin Dynasty, it is one of the most important formulas for acute and chronic depletion of both Qi and Yin — particularly Lung and Heart Qi and Yin — that arises from prolonged illness, excessive sweating, overexertion or post-viral depletion. It has been extensively studied in contemporary cardiac research.

TCM pattern

Prescribed for Lung and Heart Qi and Yin deficiency, characterised by: chronic cough with scanty sputum, shortness of breath and fatigue on exertion, spontaneous sweating, dry mouth and throat, palpitations, a pale or slightly red tongue with little coating, and a thin, weak or faint pulse.

Key herbs

Ren Shen (Panax ginseng root) — powerfully tonifies Yuan Qi, Lung and Heart Qi; the primary Qi-restoring herb
Mai Men Dong (Ophiopogon japonicus root) — nourishes Lung and Stomach Yin, moistens the Lung and generates fluids
Wu Wei Zi (Schisandra chinensis fruit) — astringes the Lung Qi to prevent further leakage; retains the Essence and prevents sweating; has adaptogenic properties

Conditions treated

Chronic fatigue syndrome and long COVID with Lung and Heart Qi and Yin depletion
Palpitations and cardiac weakness from Qi and Yin deficiency
Breathlessness and poor exercise tolerance from Lung Qi and Yin deficiency
Excessive spontaneous sweating from Qi and Yin deficiency leaving the pores ungoverned
Post-viral fatigue with dry cough, dry throat and exhaustion
Recovery from surgery or illness where Qi and Yin have been depleted