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Restore the Spleen

歸脾湯 · guī pí tāng

TCM's classical formula for the trifecta of anxious overthinking, exhaustion, and poor sleep.

What it's for

This is the formula for the person whose mind won't stop, whose body is tired down to the bones, and whose sleep is light and unrefreshing. TCM links those symptoms to the Spleen and Heart not communicating well, and this combination rebuilds qi and blood while quieting the racing mind. Practitioners reach for it for anxiety with palpitations and sleep issues, especially after long periods of overwork or worry.

This formula is for you if…

  1. Anxious overthinking that won't stop

    mind racing, replaying conversations

  2. Drained, withdrawn, can't focus

    pulling back from things, forgetting little things, low appetite

  3. Body is tired but you can't fall asleep

    restless in bed, mind still going

Best fit if at least 2 of these sound like you. If only one does, a more focused formula might fit better.

You might also notice

  • Heart palpitations
  • Forgetfulness
  • Pale or sallow complexion
  • Easy bruising or heavy early periods
  • Weak pulse

Not your match if…

  • You feel hot and restless, not tired and worn
  • Your tongue is bright red with little coating
  • You're in the middle of a cold or flu with fever

What's in it

How to take it

Restore the Spleen is sold ready-made as Gui Pi Teapills (歸脾丸).

Standard dose: 8 pills, 3 times a day.

We're working on a Field Guide–recommended source for this formula. In the meantime, look for Plum Flower brand at a TCM pharmacy or specialty retailer.

Talk to a qualified TCM practitioner before taking this regularly, especially if you're pregnant, breastfeeding, or take medication.

Safety

  • Designed for the qi-and-blood deficiency pattern with anxious overthinking and poor sleep. It's not the right pick for anxiety with strong heat signs, like flushing, thirst, and red tongue.
  • Generally cautious during pregnancy because of dong quai. Talk to a practitioner before using.
  • Talk to a qualified TCM practitioner before using this regularly, especially if you're pregnant, breastfeeding, or take medication.

Interactions

  • Ginseng may interact with anticoagulants, antidepressants, and diabetes medications. Dong quai adds bleeding risk with blood thinners. Talk to a clinician if you take prescription medication.