Dang Gui Bu Xue Tang (DBT)

What It Is

Dang Gui Bu Xue Tang (当归补血汤), often translated as “Tangkuei Decoction to Tonify the Blood,” is a classical Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) formula. It was first recorded in the Nei Wai Shang Bian Huo Lun (Treatise on Internal and External Injury) by Li Dong-Yuan during the Jin Dynasty (circa 1247 CE).

The formula contains only two herbs:

• Huang Qi (Astragalus membranaceus, Radix Astragali) — in a large proportion (typically 5 parts)
• Dang Gui (Angelica sinensis, Radix Angelicae Sinensis) — in a smaller proportion (1 part)

Despite its simplicity, DBT is considered one of the most elegant and balanced formulations in TCM for nourishing the blood and replenishing qi (vital energy).

How It Works

Dang Gui Bu Xue Tang is designed to restore balance between qi and blood, two central concepts in TCM physiology. The underlying principle is that “qi generates blood, and blood nourishes qi.” Here’s how each herb functions and how they synergize:

Huang Qi (Astragalus)

• Primary action: Tonifies qi, particularly that of the Spleen and Lung.
• Mechanism: Enhances the body’s ability to transform nutrients into blood, and helps “raise yang,” improving circulation and oxygenation.
• Modern pharmacology: Studies show it may enhance immune function, promote hematopoiesis (blood formation), and improve cardiovascular efficiency.

Dang Gui (Angelica sinensis)

• Primary action: Nourishes and invigorates the blood.
• Mechanism: Enriches and activates blood flow, preventing stagnation, and aids tissue repair.
• Modern pharmacology: Contains ferulic acid and ligustilide, compounds associated with vasodilation, anti-inflammatory, and hemopoietic effects.

Combined Action:

The synergy between Huang Qi and Dang Gui ensures that the blood is not only replenished but also properly circulated and energized. In modern biomedical terms, DBT may:

• Stimulate erythropoiesis (red blood cell production)
• Enhance microcirculation
• Support immune modulation and anti-fatigue effects
• Promote recovery from blood loss or anemia-like conditions

Why It’s Important

Dang Gui Bu Xue Tang holds a central place in TCM for several reasons:

Holistic Recovery:

• Traditionally prescribed for fatigue, dizziness, palpitations, weakness, and pale complexion—especially after illness, menstruation, childbirth, or blood loss. It helps the body rebuild strength and vitality.

Adaptogenic and Restorative Benefits:

• Modern research associates DBT with immune enhancement, anti-aging, and stress resilience due to its antioxidant and adaptogenic effects.

Women’s Health Applications:

• Commonly used in formulas supporting menstrual health, postpartum recovery, and blood deficiency syndromes. However, it’s not limited to women; men and athletes also benefit from its restorative actions.

Scientific Recognition:

DBT is among the most extensively studied traditional formulas. Experimental evidence supports its role in:

• Regulating estrogen biosynthesis
• Promoting hematopoietic stem cell activity
• Enhancing endothelial repair and skin regeneration

In essence, DBT is valued for bridging energy (qi) and nourishment (blood) — sustaining both physical stamina and systemic balance.