Sheng Mai San (Generate the Pulse Powder)

Sheng Mai San is a classical Traditional Chinese Medicine formula composed of three primary herbs: Ren Shen (Panax ginseng root, approximately 9-15g per standard decoction), Mai Men Dong (Ophiopogon japonicus tuber, approximately 9-15g), and Wu Wei Zi (Schisandra chinensis fruit, approximately 3-6g). Bioactive compounds include: Ginsenosides (Rb1, Rg1, Re) from Ren Shen at approximately 2-8mg/g dry weight, functioning as primary adaptogenic saponins with high bioavailability when decocted (estimated 60-70% extraction efficiency). Steroidal saponins (ophiopogonins A, B, C, D) from Mai Men Dong at approximately 1-3mg/g dry weight, along with homoisoflavonoids (methylophiopogonanone A and B) and polysaccharides (~150-200mg/g). Wu Wei Zi contributes lignans including schisandrin, schisandrol A and B, and gomisins at approximately 3-5mg/g dry weight, plus organic acids (citric, malic, tartaric acids). Polysaccharide content across the formula ranges 15-25% by dry weight, contributing to immune modulation. Trace minerals present include zinc (~12-18mg/100g), selenium (~2-4mcg/100g), potassium (~300-500mg/100g), calcium (~80-120mg/100g), and magnesium (~40-60mg/100g). Vitamin content is limited but includes small amounts of Vitamin C (~5-10mg per serving from Wu Wei Zi) and B-complex vitamins including niacin (~1-2mg per serving). Protein content is negligible (~1-2g per standard decoction). Fiber content from raw herbs is approximately 8-12g per 100g dry weight, though significantly reduced in decoction form. Flavonoids including quercetin and kaempferol derivatives are present at approximately 0.5-2mg/g. Bioavailability is notably enhanced through the synergistic interaction of the three herbs; ginsenoside absorption is estimated at 15-30% orally, improved by co-administration with ophiopogonins. Schisandra lignans demonstrate approximately 40-50% oral bioavailability and undergo enterohepatic recirculation, extending their effective half-life to 8-12 hours.