Chi-Ju-Di-Huang-Wan

What It Is

Chi-Ju-Di-Huang-Wan (also spelled Qi Ju Di Huang Wan or Qi Ju Di Huang Pian) is a traditional Chinese herbal formula derived from the classical prescription Liu Wei Di Huang Wan (Six-Ingredient Rehmannia Pill). It was developed during the Song Dynasty and is commonly used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) to nourish Yin, particularly of the liver and kidneys, and to improve vision.

The formula typically includes:

• Rehmannia root (Shu Di Huang)
• Cornus fruit (Shan Zhu Yu)
• Chinese yam (Shan Yao)
• Poria mushroom (Fu Ling)
• Moutan bark (Mu Dan Pi)
• Alisma rhizome (Ze Xie)
• Chrysanthemum flower (Ju Hua)
• Lycium fruit (goji berry, Gou Qi Zi)

The last two ingredients—Ju Hua and Gou Qi Zi—distinguish this formula from Liu Wei Di Huang Wan, enhancing its effect on the eyes and vision.

How It Works

In TCM theory, Chi-Ju-Di-Huang-Wan works by tonifying the Yin of the liver and kidneys, which are considered the root of vitality and the foundation for eye health.

• Liver Yin nourishment: The liver stores blood and governs the eyes. By enriching liver Yin, the formula helps maintain proper vision, reduce eye dryness, and relieve fatigue.
• Kidney Yin support: The kidneys are believed to nourish the liver. Strengthening kidney Yin helps replenish vital essence (jing), combating symptoms such as dizziness, tinnitus, and lower back weakness.
• Heat clearing and balance: Herbs like Moutan bark and Alisma rhizome help clear deficient heat and promote fluid metabolism, preventing stagnation from excessive tonics.
• Eye-targeting herbs: Chrysanthemum and goji berries directly benefit the eyes by dispersing wind-heat, improving blood circulation to ocular tissues, and providing antioxidant effects in modern pharmacological terms.

Modern research supports that components of Chi-Ju-Di-Huang-Wan may help regulate oxidative stress, retinal function, and microcirculation, aligning with its traditional use for eye health.

Why It’s Important

Chi-Ju-Di-Huang-Wan holds a significant place in Chinese medicine because it bridges general Yin tonification with targeted eye and vision protection. It is widely prescribed for:

• Age-related eye conditions, such as dry eyes, blurry vision, or early cataract formation.
• Symptoms of Yin deficiency, including dizziness, tinnitus, night sweats, or irritability.
• Visual fatigue due to prolonged screen use or overwork, common in modern lifestyles.

Its importance lies in promoting systemic balance rather than only treating eye symptoms. By nourishing the body’s Yin aspect, it supports overall vitality, hormonal balance, and longevity, which are foundational in TCM preventive health philosophy.

Considerations

While Chi-Ju-Di-Huang-Wan is generally safe and well-tolerated, several considerations apply:

Not suitable for everyone:

• It should be avoided by individuals with Spleen Qi deficiency with dampness (symptoms such as bloating, loose stools, or fatigue after eating), since the formula is rich and tonifying, which can worsen digestive sluggishness.

Contraindicated during acute illness:

• Not recommended for use during colds, flu, or infections characterized by fever or excess heat, as its Yin-nourishing nature may trap pathogens inside.

Dosage and duration:

• Traditionally taken as pills or decoction, dosage should be guided by a licensed TCM practitioner to match the person’s constitution and condition. Long-term unsupervised use is discouraged.

Interactions and modern precautions:

• Individuals on medications for blood sugar, blood pressure, or diuretics should consult healthcare providers, as certain ingredients may influence these systems.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding:

• Use under medical supervision only, as the effects on these states have not been well-established in modern clinical contexts.