金匮肾气丸

4. Granule conversion and dose

• Calculation of the original formula's total raw herb weight (based on the dosages of Zhang Zhongjing's Jin Gui Yao Lue [Synopsis of Golden Chamber], Han dynasty):
  • Gan Di Huang (dried rehmannia root) 24 g + Shan Zhu Yu (cornus fruit) 12 g + Shan Yao (Chinese yam) 12 g + Ze Xie (alisma rhizome) 9 g + Mu Dan Pi (moutan bark) 9 g + Fu Ling (poria) 9 g + Fu Zi (prepared aconite root) 3 g + Gui Zhi (cassia twig) 3 g = 81 g.
• Conversion to 5:1 granules:
  • 81 g raw herb ÷ 5 = 16.2 g granules.
• Recommended dose and method of administration:
  • One dose daily, taken in two portions dissolved in warm water with a small amount of white liquor added.
  • Recommended to be taken on an empty stomach or before meals to aid absorption.
  • Each dose is 8 g.

5. Cautions and clinical notes

1. [Contraindication]: Not to be used in cases of Kidney yin deficiency with deficiency fire flaring upward (manifesting as dry mouth and throat, tidal fever with night sweats, red tongue with scanty coating). This formula is warming and tonifying in nature and may readily stir fire and damage yin.
2. Dietary restrictions: Avoid raw, cold, and greasy foods while taking this formula.
3. Modern applications: This formula is widely used for chronic nephritis, diabetes, adrenocortical hypofunction, hypothyroidism, menopausal syndrome, benign prostatic hyperplasia, and senile urinary incontinence, where these are due to Kidney yang insufficiency.
4. Duration of use: Kidney yang deficiency is a chronic deficiency condition requiring long-term regulation; duration of use should be determined under the guidance of a physician.