QI JU DI HUANG WAN

Yin-Nourishing & Liver-Clearing • Vision-Brightening & Kidney-Tonifying Formula

Symptoms

Ocular Fatigue: Dry eyes, "sandy" sensation, or eyes that tire easily after reading or screen work.

Vision Changes: Blurred vision, diminished visual acuity, or "floaters" (Muscae volitantes).

Photophobia: Excessive sensitivity to light or a "glare" effect.

Liver/Kidney Signs: Dizziness, high-pitched tinnitus, and lower back soreness.

Deficiency Heat: Low-grade "heat" in the eyes, night sweats, or a dry throat.

Tongue: Red body with little or no coating (or a very thin, dry coat).

Pulse: Thin (Xi) and rapid (Shuo).

Ingredients

Gou Qi Zi (Lycium barbarum)
Raw Herbs 15g Granules 10.7g

Ju Hua (Chrysanthemum mor.)
Raw Herbs 15g Granules 10.7g

Shu Di Huang (Rehmannia glutinosa)
Raw Herbs 30g Granules 21.5g

Shan Yao (Dioscorea opposita)
Raw Herbs 15g Granules 10.7g

Shan Zhu Yu (Cornus officinalis)
Raw Herbs 20g Granules 14.3g

Fu Ling (Poria cocos)
Raw Herbs 15g Granules 10.7g

Mu Dan Pi (Paeonia suffrut.)
Raw Herbs 15g Granules 10.7g

Ze Xie (Alisma orientale)
Raw Herbs 15g Granules 10.7g

Posology

Granules

3 to 9g daily, divided into 2 doses, taken with warm water.

Raw Herbs

Decoct in 800–1000ml of water. Drink 1–2 cups daily.

Description

Qi Ju Di Huang Wan follows the logic that "the Liver opens into the eyes." It provides the "oil" (Yin) so the "lamp" (Eyes) can burn brightly without flickering.

Shu Di, Shan Yao, and Shan Zhu Yu (The Three Tonics) provide the deep structural nourishment for the Kidney and Spleen, forming the foundation of Essence.

Gou Qi Zi is the Chief specific to the eyes; it enters the Liver and Kidney to directly moisten the optic nerve and retina.

Ju Hua is the Deputy; it is slightly cool and "clears the Liver," which helps to dissipate the "Empty Heat" that causes redness and irritation in the eyes.

Mu Dan Pi, Fu Ling, and Ze Xie (The Three Drainers) ensure that dampness and heat do not accumulate, keeping the "fluid pathways" to the eyes clear.

Contraindications

Contraindicated for Spleen/Stomach Cold-Damp (loose stools, chronic diarrhea, cold limbs).

Not for use during acute Wind-Heat infections (e.g., viral "Pink Eye" with heavy discharge—use Sang Ju Yin instead).

Avoid in cases of indigestion or a thick, greasy tongue coating.