Herbal Insight: Liu Wei Di Huang Wan (Six Flavor Rehmannia Formula)
Liu Wei Di Huang Wan (å…味地黄丸), also known as Six Flavor Rehmannia Pill, is one of the most renowned and time-tested formulas in the Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) system. Originally created by the Song Dynasty physician Qian Yi over 900 years ago, this foundational formula is designed to nourish Kidney Yin, balance internal fluids, and support the body’s core vitality, especially as it relates to aging, hormonal balance, and fatigue.
Often recommended for individuals experiencing symptoms such as night sweats, hot flashes, lower back weakness, tinnitus, or dry eyes and throat, Liu Wei Di Huang Wan is a go-to formula for Yin deficiency, particularly involving the Kidney and Liver systems.
What’s Inside? The Six Key Herbs of Liu Wei Di Huang Wan
Each of the six ingredients in this classic formula plays a specific role, working synergistically to restore balance and replenish the body's foundational energy.
| Herb Name | TCM Function | Role in the Formula |
|---|---|---|
| Shu Di Huang (Rehmannia glutinosa root, prepared) | Nourishes Kidney and Liver Yin, generates essence and blood | Primary tonic to replenish Yin and strengthen foundational energy |
| Shan Zhu Yu (Cornus officinalis fruit) | Stabilizes and binds the Kidney, preserves essence | Astringes leakage of fluids and supports the Liver |
| Shan Yao (Dioscorea opposita rhizome) | Tonifies Spleen and Kidney, supports Qi and Yin | Strengthens digestion while gently nourishing the Kidneys |
| Ze Xie (Alisma plantago-aquatica rhizome) | Promotes urination, drains Kidney fire and dampness | Clears excess moisture and prevents stagnation from rich herbs |
| Fu Ling (Poria cocos fungus) | Strengthens Spleen, leaches dampness, calms the mind | Supports digestion and fluid metabolism, preventing damp buildup |
| Mu Dan Pi (Paeonia suffruticosa root bark) | Cools and moves the blood, clears deficiency heat | Balances the formula by dispersing heat that may arise from tonic herbs |
Why Liu Wei Di Huang Wan Matters Today
While this formula was developed centuries ago, its relevance today is striking. Many modern conditions—including hormone imbalance, adrenal burnout, age-related dryness, and chronic fatigue—align closely with the TCM pattern of Kidney Yin deficiency. Liu Wei Di Huang Wan provides gentle, long-term support for these imbalances without overstimulation.
It is often used as a base formula and modified with additional herbs for more specific concerns such as:
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Menopause and perimenopause (e.g., Zhi Bai Di Huang Wan)
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Pediatric developmental delays
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Tinnitus and hearing loss
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Mild type 2 diabetes symptoms
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Fertility support in Yin-deficient individuals
These ingredients work synergistically in Liu Wei Di Huang Wan to nourish Yin energy, tonify the kidneys and liver, promote fluid metabolism, and balance the body's internal environment. The formula is commonly prescribed for conditions characterized by Yin deficiency, such as chronic fatigue, dizziness, insomnia, and other related symptoms.
Pin Yin Name: Liu Wei Di Huang Tang, Rehmannia 6
Other Ingredients: none
Pin Yin Ingredients: Shu di huang, Shan yao, Shan zhu yu, Mu dan pi, Fu ling, Ze xie
Botanical Ingredients: Rehmannia glutinosa root-prep, Dioscorea opposita rhizome, Cornus officinalis fruit, Paeonia suffruticosa root-bark, Poria cocos fungus, Alisma orientalis rhizome
Package Size: 100 grams (3.5 ounces)
Form: Powder Formulas
Dosage: 3 grams, 3 x day or 4-5 grams 2 x day
Origin: China
Brand: Plum Flower
Cautions: Do not use if pregnant or nursing.
Summary of Six Flavor Teapills
- Tonifies Kidney Yin
- Tonifies Liver Yin
- Clears Heat
- Secures the Jing Essence
- Promote Healthy Kidney Function
- Overall General Tonic
Liu Wei Di Huang Wan is traditionally used to nourish Yin energy, particularly in the kidney and liver meridians, according to TCM principles. It's commonly prescribed for conditions associated with Yin deficiency, such as dizziness, tinnitus, night sweats, dry mouth and throat, and lower back pain. This formula is believed to replenish vital essence, tonify the kidneys, and promote overall balance and harmony within the body.
Teapills (sometimes spelled tea pills) are one of the best ways to take your alternative medicine easily. There is no need to brew or decoct the tea mixture. The teapills are convenient to use, and you don't have to brew tea for hours. The teapills are convenient and can be easily taken with you in a purse or pocket. The typical recommended dosage is 8 teapills, three times daily. Make sure you check with your naturopathic doctor, physician, or herbalist before starting a new teapill regimen.
Teapills are usually taken with room temperature water right before a meal. If you have a sensitive stomach, you may find that you will need to take the teapills with a meal. The small pills are easy to swallow. Do remember though, these are herbs and at times the herbs are bitter, so you may taste a bit of bitterness when you are swallowing the small, pea-sized pill.
About Plum Flower Teapills
Plum Flower is an established worldwide manufacturer of high-quality Chinese herbs, and innovative Chinese medicinal herbs and products. Plum Flower uses sulfur-free herbs and laboratory tests its products for contamination and heavy metals, such as mercury, lead, and pesticides.
Chinese Traditional herbs should be regarded as an added feature to modern western healthcare, and not as a replacement. Chinese traditional herbs (Teas) emphasize harmony, and balance.
