Tian Ma Gou Teng Yin — Gastrodia and Uncaria Drink

On this page

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

Overview

Tian Ma Gou Teng Yin — Gastrodia and Uncaria Drink — was developed in the 1950s specifically to calm Liver Yang, extinguish Wind and clear Heat, addressing both the acute manifestations of rising Liver Yang (headache, dizziness, hypertension) and the underlying Liver and Kidney Yin deficiency that allows Yang to rise unchecked. It has become one of the most widely researched Chinese herbal formulas for hypertension and neurological conditions, with a substantial evidence base confirming its blood pressure-lowering and neuroprotective effects.

TCM pattern

Prescribed for Liver Yang rising with Liver Wind agitating internally, arising on a background of Liver and Kidney Yin deficiency. Characterised by: headaches (particularly at the vertex, temples or occiput), dizziness and vertigo, tinnitus, insomnia, a flushed face, bitter taste, irritability, lower back and knee weakness, a red tongue with yellow coating, and a wiry, rapid pulse.

Key herbs

1. Tian Ma (Gastrodia elata rhizome) — extinguishes Liver Wind and calms Liver Yang; the most important herb in TCM for Wind-related neurological conditions; confirmed blood pressure-lowering effects in multiple studies
2. Gou Teng (Uncaria rhynchophylla hook) — clears Liver Heat and extinguishes Wind; confirmed antihypertensive in clinical research
3. Shi Jue Ming (Haliotis diversicolor shell) — heavily sinks and anchors Liver Yang; cools the Liver
4. Chuan Niu Xi (Cyathula officinalis root) — invigorates Blood and guides Blood and Yang downward, redirecting ascending Liver Yang
5. Du Zhong (Eucommia ulmoides bark) — tonifies Kidney Yang and strengthens the lower back; nourishes the Yin foundation to anchor Yang
6. Sang Ji Sheng (Loranthus parasiticus stem) — tonifies Liver and Kidney; strengthens sinews and bones
7. Ye Jiao Teng (Polygonum multiflorum stem) — nourishes Blood and calms the Shen; promotes sleep

Conditions treated

1. High blood pressure (hypertension) — the formula’s most researched indication; multiple RCTs confirm clinically significant blood pressure-lowering effects
2. Migraines and severe headaches from Liver Yang rising
3. Dizziness and vertigo from Liver Wind and Yang rising
4. Tinnitus from Liver Yang rising on Kidney Yin deficiency
5. Insomnia from Liver Yang disturbing the Shen
6. Post-stroke rehabilitation and prevention of stroke recurrence

Should be used alongside, not instead of, prescribed antihypertensive medication. Blood pressure should be monitored regularly. Always inform your GP of all herbal medicines taken.

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.