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zhū shā ān shén wán • cinnabar pill to calm the spirit • 朱砂安神丸

prescription
calm the spirit • sedate and calm the spirit

zhū shā ān shén wán is used for patterns with

heart fire with blood and yin deficiency, heart fire injuring the blood and yin, kidneys not able to root the heart.

symptoms indicating the use of zhū shā ān shén wán

insomnia, continuous palpitations, sensation of heat and irritability in the chest, desire to vomit without result, dream-disturbed sleep, anxiety, tongue ulcers, fidgeting, maybe a rancorous disposition, irritability, fear and fright, night sweats, shortness of breath, nausea.

western interpretation of zhū shā ān shén wán

neurasthenia, depression, anxiety neurosis, panic attacks, mitral valve prolapse.

explanation of the mechanism

this is vigorous heart fire injuring the blood and yin. the scorching from heart fire depletes the blood and yin, which in turn deprives the heart of nourishment. the combination of heat and deficiency disturbs the serenity of the spirit, which manifests as insomnia and continuous palpitations.

another way of looking at this is that the uprising of heart fire prevents the heart from rooting in the kidneys, which is necessary to house the spirit. the spirit therefore has no place to reside during the yin time of the day (i.e., the nighttime), and insomnia results.

the internal movement of fire in the heart not only aggravates the palpitations, but also gives rise to a sensation of heat and irritability in the chest, a desire to vomit without result, and a red tongue. this process of heat disturbing the spirit and disrupting the flow of qi in the chest may also lead to the development of a rancorous disposition. the combination of heat and deficiency is clearly reflected in the thin, rapid pulse.

(bensky & barolet)

⚠️ important note: if you experience symptoms that resemble the ones presented in the tcm pocketguide please consult a medical doctor or tcm therapist. these prescriptions are not meant for self-medication and should only be prescribed by a licensed tcm practitioner. of course you can also book a consultation with me. i would be pleased to welcome you.

tcm pocketguide

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