Formulas that combine various tonic herbs to treat major systems of the body – qi, blood, yin and yang – are commonly self-prescribed in China, especially as people pass the age of 40. The formulas address the effects of aging, including fatigue, slowing down of metabolism, aching of joints or muscles, poor tendon flexibility, poor concentration or memory, and loss of hair or skin tone. In addition to applications for aging, one also uses up reserves of qi, blood, yin and yang following childbirth, surgery, chemotherapy, radiation or prolonged illness. The formulas are also used to enhance both male and female fertility, and to regulate the menses. The formulas take individual tonic herbs (qi, blood, yin and yang) and combine them, or combine small formulas.
