Dang Gui Bu Xue Tang (DBT)
Specifically for Anemia (Iron-Deficiency)
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Why it works for Anemia (Iron-Deficiency):
Improves iron handling & uptake. A controlled lab/animal study on IDA found DBT increased cellular iron uptake and ferritin formation and suggested co-administration with iron can work synergistically—but with timing separation (see instructions below). Dove Medical Press
Stimulates erythropoietin (EPO). DBT triggered EPO expression via HIF-1 signaling in human cell models—relevant because EPO drives red-blood-cell production. ScienceDirect
Broad “blood-tonifying” pharmacology. Reviews and mechanistic papers describe DBT’s active constituents (saponins, flavonoids, ferulic acid, polysaccharides) and show effects consistent with hematopoiesis support and anti-inflammatory modulation—all helpful adjuncts in IDA recovery. SpringerLink
How to use for Anemia (Iron-Deficiency):
Classical composition & prep
- Ingredients (5:1 ratio): Huangqi (Astragali Radix) 30 g + Danggui (Angelicae sinensis Radix) 6 g per day—a classical starting point recorded since 1247 CE. Examine
- Decoction method: Boil the two herbs together in water with gentle heat; modern lab protocols often extract in ~8× water for ~2 hours (in 1–2 decoctions), then combine. (Commercial granules follow the same 5:1 ratio.) PSE Community
Dosing pattern
- Typical clinical practice uses the above daily dose (as decoction or equivalent granules) once daily, for 8–12 weeks alongside iron therapy, with practitioner adjustments to constitution and response. (Duration aligns with red-cell turnover and trial timelines in related DBT studies.) Frontiers
Timing with iron
- If you’re also taking ferrous sulfate or other oral iron, take DBT at least 2 hours before iron. This spacing preserved DBT’s benefits and avoided interference with free Fe(II) in vitro/animal work that specifically modeled IDA. Dove Medical Press
Monitoring
- Track Hb, ferritin, transferrin saturation every 4–8 weeks while correcting IDA (standard IDA care), and continue iron supplementation as prescribed; DBT is used as an adjunct, not a substitute. (Hepcidin/ferroportin biology explains why labs lag clinical symptoms.) MDPI
Scientific Evidence for Anemia (Iron-Deficiency):
Evidence directly on IDA
- Systematic review & meta-analysis (2024) of RCTs of DBT for IDA (Korean journals/programs): concluded DBT may improve hematologic indices and appeared generally safe, while calling for higher-quality RCTs. (Good synthesis, but heterogeneous and many trials China-based.) Dspace
- Mechanistic IDA model: DBT enhanced iron uptake/ferritin and recommended the 2-hour separation when combined with ferrous sulfate (see “instructions”). Dove Medical Press
Supportive (related) clinical data
- DBT has human trials in adjacent hematologic or fatigue contexts (e.g., menopausal symptom trials showing safety and quality-of-life benefits; renal-anemia meta-analysis), which—while not IDA-specific—demonstrate tolerability and hematologic trends. Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center
Key mechanistic papers
- EPO via HIF-1 induction by DBT. ScienceDirect
- Network-pharmacology / “chinmedomics” analyses linking DBT compounds to blood-building pathways. Frontiers
- Broader DBT pharmacology reviews (constituents, standardization, rationale for the 5:1 ratio). SpringerLink
Specific Warnings for Anemia (Iron-Deficiency):
Pregnancy & breastfeeding: Avoid DBT (and Dang Gui) in pregnancy/breastfeeding unless specifically directed by a specialist; some centers list it as contraindicated due to uterotonic and phytoestrogen concerns. Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center
Hormone-sensitive cancers: Use with caution / consult oncology—DBT has phytoestrogenic constituents. Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center
Anticoagulants / antiplatelets (e.g., warfarin): Potential bleeding risk reported with Dong quai (Angelica sinensis); herb–warfarin interactions are documented in reviews and case reports. If on warfarin or similar agents, avoid or strictly monitor INR with your prescriber. The Lancet
Immunosuppressants / transplant: Astragalus is immunostimulatory; avoid DBT if you need immunosuppression unless cleared by your specialist. Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center
Allergy & GI effects: Rare but possible (Angelica/Astragalus). Stop and seek care with rash, swelling, or persistent GI upset. Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center
General supplement cautions: Quality can vary (follow pharmacopeial standards when possible) and always disclose DBT use to your clinicians. Cisema
General Information (All Ailments)
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.
Helps with these conditions
Dang Gui Bu Xue Tang (DBT) is most effective for general wellness support with emerging research . The effectiveness varies by condition based on clinical evidence and user experiences.
Detailed Information by Condition
Anemia (Iron-Deficiency)
Improves iron handling & uptake. A controlled lab/animal study on IDA found DBT increased cellular iron uptake and ferritin formation and suggeste...
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