guizhi decoction

Guizhi decoction (Guizhi Tang) is a foundational Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) formula originally documented in the *Shanghan Lun* (Treatise on Febrile Diseases). It is composed of five primary herbal ingredients: *Ramulus Cinnamomi* (Cinnamon Twig), *Radix Paeoniae Alba* (White Peony Root), *Rhizoma Zingiberis Recens* (Fresh Ginger), *Fructus Ziziphi Jujubae* (Jujube), and *Radix Glycyrrhizae Praeparata* (Honey-fried Licorice Root). While traditionally used for releasing the exterior and harmonizing the Ying and Wei levels, modern research led by institutions such as Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine has focused on its application in rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The decoction exhibits potent anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties, primarily by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines like TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6, and modulating the RANKL/OPG signaling pathway to mitigate bone and cartilage destruction. It is also thought to regulate the balance between Th17 and Treg cells, thereby restoring immune homeostasis in autoimmune conditions.

Brand names

Guizhi Tang

Other names

Guizhi TangCinnamon Twig DecoctionRamulus Cinnamomi DecoctionKeishi-to