Ginseng 18, 100 tablets

Ginseng 18 is based on several frequently used traditional formulas for treating weak spleen qi and resolving dampness associated with this deficiency, including Ginseng and Astragalus Combination (Buzhong Yiqi Tang) and Ginseng and Atractylodes Formula (Shen Ling Baizhu San). The dominant function is to tonify qi, so the formula contains the qi tonics ginseng, astragalus, atractylodes, dioscorea, and licorice. To regulate dampness, small amounts of several moisture resolving herbs are included: hoelen, dolichos, lotus seed, ginger, citrus, pinellia, cardamon, galanga, chaenomeles, and magnolia bark. Compared to simple spleen qi tonic prescriptions (such as Four Major Herbs Combination, Si Junzi Tang), Ginseng 18 adds aromatic and spicy herbs - citrus, cardamon, galanga, magnolia bark, and saussurea - that stimulate the digestive process, penetrate stagnant dampness, and alleviate flatulence. This formula addresses intestinal disorders in which inadequate breakdown of nutrients leads to systemic reactions (see also: Huo Xiang Zhen Qi Pian, Pine Mountain). If a person does not suffer from dampness, then one can select an alternative qi tonifying formula, such as Ginseng 6 (treats fluid deficiency), Astragalus 10+ (treats blood deficiency), Eleuthero 10+ (treats kidney deficiency), or Pine Mountain Ren Shen Feng Wang Pian (boosts qi). After treating a syndrome of qi deficiency with moisture accumulation and resolving the moisture, one can follow-up with a simple qi tonic prescription such as Bu Zhong Yi Qi Wan (Pine Mountain).