Use of the formula according to Traditional Chinese Medicine:

• nourishes liver blood, softens the liver
• disperses liver Qi
• strengthens the spleen
• drains dampness
• strengthens the spleen and kidneys
• protects pregnancy

Description:

The mixture is based on a combination of peony root and angelica and has been known since the third century, when it was compiled by the famous physician Zhang Zhong-Jing. Its administration, both in the prevention of pregnancy complications and in their treatment, is therefore confirmed by more than 1.5 millennia of experience. It significantly supplements blood and supports its production. It is also very effective for aching in the lower abdomen during pregnancy or for a feeling of pressure in the small pelvis, as well as for alleviating premature uterine contractions or lower back pain, which is so common in pregnancy.

In the mixture, Poria cocos and atractylodes further improve digestion by strengthening the spleen, which is then better able to create vital substances – Qi and blood – from food. Alisma further drains dampness through urination and, together with Ligusticum, improves blood supply, thereby relieving pain and tension in the abdomen and lower abdomen area. The mixture is also excellent for pregnancy-related digestive problems. It also has a wide range of uses outside of pregnancy, either in preparation for it (it harmonises the menstrual cycle and menstruation itself – especially painful menstruation, supports ovulation and improves corpus luteum dysfunction – increases progesterone levels in the second part of the cycle), and prevents habitual miscarriage, especially if it is associated with autoimmune disorders.

Very interesting is another modern application of Dang Gui Shao Yao Tang in the treatment of coeliac disease, especially when it is not accompanied by more significant symptoms of disharmony between the liver and spleen or damp heat in the large intestine. It is therefore primarily about managing milder problems such as pain, cramps and pressure in the abdomen and loose stools from excessive dampness. Adherence to dietary measures is, of course, a necessity even when taking the mixture.

Indications:

• symptoms usually appear during pregnancy:
• aching and cramping pain in the abdomen and lower abdomen
• pain is not severe and is relieved by pressure
• aching in the lower back – lumbago
• weakness and numbness of the lower back and legs during pregnancy or after childbirth
• mild swelling (especially of the lower limbs)
• urinary problems, oliguria
• anaemia
• pale face
• feeling of a heavy head
• fatigue, drowsiness
• dizziness
• tinnitus
• palpitations
• cold hands and feet
• dysmenorrhoea
• irregular menstruation
• mushy stools

Modern use:

• prevention of pregnancy complications (premature uterine contractions, bleeding, difficult urination, swelling of the lower limbs)
• pregnancy anaemia and its prevention
• pregnancy cramps
• pain in the lower abdomen and abdomen
• lumbar spine pain in pregnancy
• pregnancy hypertension
• ovulatory and menstrual irregularities
• dysmenorrhoea (painful menstruation)
• infertility
• habitual miscarriage
• chloasma (“age” spots)
• acne
• coeliac disease

Tongue:

• pale or pink
• possible petechiae on the edge
• thin or greasy white coating

Pulse:

• hen
• ruo (deep and weak) or xu
• ru (empty, soggy) or xi
• chi (fine and slow) or possibly xian
• jin (wiry, tight) in case of pain

Contraindications:

• Although the mixture is intended for the prevention and resolution of problems in pregnancy and is safe, the administration of all herbal preparations during pregnancy belongs in the hands of an experienced therapist.

Notes:

Although the mixture was designed and is used primarily for the prevention and resolution of problems in pregnancy,

today its use is broader and it can be administered for all problems related to blood deficiency and water pathway disorders with signs of pathological dampness in the organism.

Composition of the formula: