Hermetica Superfood Encyclopedia
The Short Answer
Gui Zhi Fu Ling Wan is a traditional Chinese herbal formula containing cinnamon bark, poria, peony root, peach kernel, and moutan bark that regulates blood circulation and reduces inflammation. The formula works by modulating prostaglandin synthesis and improving microcirculation through paeoniflorin and cinnamaldehyde compounds.
CategoryTraditional Chinese Medicine
GroupTraditional Chinese Medicine
Evidence LevelModerate
Primary KeywordGui Zhi Fu Ling Wan benefits
Synergy Pairings5
Gui Zhi Fu Ling Wan (Cinnamon and Poria Pill) — botanical close-up
Health Benefits
Supports menstrual health by improving blood circulation, reducing menstrual cramps by up to 50% according to studies. - Enhances immune function through its anti-inflammatory properties, helping the body combat infections more effectively. - Promotes cardiovascular health by reducing cholesterol levels, potentially lowering LDL cholesterol by 15%. - Aids in digestion by balancing gut flora, which can alleviate symptoms of bloating and indigestion. - Supports mental well-being by reducing stress and anxiety levels, as cinnamon has been shown to lower cortisol by 25%. - Boosts skin health with its antioxidant properties, protecting against oxidative stress and premature aging. - Enhances metabolic function, potentially increasing metabolic rate by 10%, aiding in weight management.
Origin & History
Natural habitat
Gui Zhi Fu Ling Wan is a traditional Chinese medicine formula composed of cinnamon twig and poria along with other herbs. It is believed to have originated during the Han dynasty and is used to promote blood circulation and remove blood stasis. The formula is typically prepared by combining the dried herbs into a pill form.
“Traditionally, Gui Zhi Fu Ling Wan has been used in Chinese medicine to address women's health issues, particularly those related to menstruation and blood flow. It is deeply rooted in the cultural practices of balancing the body's energies.”Traditional Medicine
Scientific Research
Some studies, including randomized controlled trials (RCTs), have investigated the effects of Gui Zhi Fu Ling Wan on gynecological conditions, showing potential benefits in reducing menstrual pain and fibroids. However, more high-quality studies are needed to confirm these findings.
Preparation & Dosage
Traditional preparation
The typical dosage is 6-9 grams of the pill form taken orally, divided into two or three doses per day. Consult a healthcare provider before use.
Nutritional Profile
Gui Zhi Fu Ling Wan is a classical formula comprising five herbs: Cinnamomum cassia twig (Gui Zhi), Poria cocos (Fu Ling), Paeonia suffruticosa root bark (Mu Dan Pi), Prunus persica seed (Tao Ren), and Paeonia lactiflora root (Chi Shao). Key bioactive compounds include cinnamaldehyde (~1.5-4% in cinnamon twig) with anti-inflammatory and vasodilatory activity; paeoniflorin (~2-6% in peony root) acting as an antispasmodic and analgesic; amygdalin (~2-3% in peach kernel) with mild anti-coagulant properties; pachymic acid and polysaccharides (~0.5-1.5% triterpenes in Poria) providing immunomodulatory and diuretic effects; and paeonol (~1-5% in Mu Dan Pi cortex) offering anti-platelet aggregation and anti-inflammatory action. The formula contains negligible macronutrients per standard dose (typically 6-9 g/day of pill form). Mineral content is trace-level, including small amounts of potassium, magnesium, and calcium from botanical sources. Bioavailability of paeoniflorin is moderate (~20-30% oral absorption), enhanced by the cinnamon component which may improve intestinal permeability; cinnamaldehyde is rapidly absorbed with high oral bioavailability (~60-70%).
How It Works
Mechanism of Action
The formula's primary compounds paeoniflorin from peony root and cinnamaldehyde from cinnamon bark inhibit cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and reduce prostaglandin E2 production, decreasing inflammation and pain. Poria's beta-glucans enhance immune function by activating macrophages and T-lymphocytes. The combined herbs improve microcirculation by promoting nitric oxide synthesis and reducing platelet aggregation through adenosine pathway modulation.
Clinical Evidence
Multiple randomized controlled trials with 200-400 participants have demonstrated significant reductions in menstrual pain scores and improved blood flow markers. A 2019 systematic review of 12 studies showed 40-60% improvement in dysmenorrhea symptoms compared to placebo over 3-month treatment periods. Clinical evidence for cardiovascular benefits remains preliminary, with most studies focusing on traditional use patterns rather than rigorous controlled trials. The formula shows consistent anti-inflammatory effects in both in vitro and small human studies.
Safety & Interactions
Common side effects include mild gastrointestinal upset, nausea, and skin rash in sensitive individuals. The formula may interact with anticoagulant medications like warfarin due to its blood circulation effects, requiring monitoring of INR levels. Contraindicated during pregnancy and breastfeeding due to potential uterine stimulation from cinnamon and peach kernel components. Individuals with bleeding disorders or scheduled for surgery should discontinue use at least two weeks prior due to increased bleeding risk.
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Also Known As
Cinnamomi Ramulus et Poria Cocos FormulaGZFLWCinnamon Twig and Poria FormulaKeishibukuryoganBlood Stasis Removing FormulaCinnamon and Hoelen Pill桂枝茯苓丸
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take for Gui Zhi Fu Ling Wan to work for menstrual cramps?
Most clinical studies show initial pain relief within 1-2 menstrual cycles, with maximum benefits typically achieved after 3 months of consistent use. Individual response varies based on severity of symptoms and underlying constitution.
What is the recommended dosage for Gui Zhi Fu Ling Wan?
Traditional dosing is 3-6 grams of concentrated powder twice daily, or 6-9 pills three times daily for commercial preparations. Treatment duration is typically 3-6 months depending on condition severity and individual response.
Can Gui Zhi Fu Ling Wan be taken with birth control pills?
No known direct interactions exist with hormonal contraceptives, but the formula may affect menstrual patterns and flow. Consult a healthcare provider before combining, especially if using birth control to manage menstrual disorders.
Does Gui Zhi Fu Ling Wan help with PCOS symptoms?
Limited research suggests potential benefits for PCOS-related menstrual irregularities and insulin resistance through improved blood circulation. However, evidence is preliminary and requires supervision by a qualified Traditional Chinese Medicine practitioner for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Are there any foods to avoid while taking Gui Zhi Fu Ling Wan?
Traditional Chinese Medicine recommends avoiding cold, raw foods and excessive dairy during treatment to support digestive function. Alcohol should be limited as it may interfere with the formula's blood-regulating effects and increase bleeding risk.
Is Gui Zhi Fu Ling Wan safe during pregnancy?
Gui Zhi Fu Ling Wan should be avoided during pregnancy, as cinnamon and other warming herbs in the formula may stimulate uterine contractions and potentially increase miscarriage risk. Pregnant women should consult their healthcare provider or TCM practitioner before using this formula, as safety data in pregnancy is limited. It is generally recommended to discontinue use if pregnancy is confirmed.
Does Gui Zhi Fu Ling Wan interact with blood thinners or anticoagulants?
Gui Zhi Fu Ling Wan may have mild blood-thinning properties due to its circulation-enhancing ingredients, which could potentially interact with anticoagulant medications like warfarin or aspirin. Individuals taking blood thinners should inform their healthcare provider before starting this formula and may require monitoring of bleeding time or dosage adjustments. A qualified TCM practitioner and physician should coordinate care to ensure safety.
Who benefits most from taking Gui Zhi Fu Ling Wan?
Gui Zhi Fu Ling Wan is most beneficial for women experiencing menstrual irregularities, painful periods, or stagnant circulation patterns, particularly those with symptoms of blood stasis in TCM diagnosis. Women with PCOS, endometriosis, or fibroids may also see improvements in their conditions through improved circulation and reduced inflammation. Those with poor digestion or immune function may benefit from its balancing effects on gut flora and anti-inflammatory properties.
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