Qin Jiao Pills

[Formula] Zanthoxylum schinifolium Siebold & Zucc. (remove seeds and closed ones, stir-fry until perspiration appears) 30g, Rehmannia glutinosa (Libosch.) Steud. (dried by baking) 30g, Inula japonica (Thunb.) A.Gray 30g, Angelica dahurica (Fisch. ex Hoffm.) Benth. et Hook.f. ex Franch. et Sav. 30g

[Usage] Grind the above ingredients into a powder, process with refined honey to make pills the size of Sterculia platanifolia seeds (used as a size reference). Take 30 pills each time with rice-water decoction.

[Functions] Nourishes the hair and beard.

[Indications] Beard turns yellow and withered.

[Commentary] In the formula, Zanthoxylum schinifolium (Qinjiao) dispels wind and promotes hair growth, helps maintain hair loss; Rehmannia glutinosa (raw and dried, Shenggan Dihuang) nourishes the Kidneys, enriches yin, cools the blood, and promotes hair growth and luster; Angelica dahurica (Baizhi) dispels wind, activates blood circulation, perfumes the hair, and removes dirt; Inula helenium (Xuanfuhua) unblocks the blood vessels and enhances hair color; The formula is made into pills with honey, which is also an excellent ingredient for nourishing qi and blood, promoting hair growth, and nourishing the beard and hair.

Q1: What are Qin Jiao Pills used for in traditional Chinese medicine?

A1: Qin Jiao Pills are a traditional Chinese medicine formula primarily used to dispel wind-cold, alleviate headache, and relieve joint pain. In TCM, they are often prescribed for conditions like the common cold with stiff neck, rheumatic pain, and migraines caused by external pathogens. The combination of herbs like Zanthoxylum schinifolium and Rehmannia glutinosa works synergistically to expel wind and harmonize the body.

Q2: What are the benefits of Qin Jiao Pills?

A2: The benefits of Qin Jiao Pills include reducing inflammation, easing muscle tension, and promoting blood circulation. They are particularly known for their effectiveness in soothing discomfort from wind-cold invasion, such as headaches, nasal congestion, and body aches. As a traditional Chinese medicine remedy, these pills help restore balance by addressing both exterior and interior disharmony.

Q3: How are Qin Jiao Pills prepared according to traditional Chinese medicine?

A3: Qin Jiao Pills are prepared by grinding a precise blend of ingredients—including Zanthoxylum schinifolium seitaned and stir-fried, dried Rehmannia glutinosa, Inula japonica, and Angelica dahurica—into a fine powder. This powder is then processed with refined honey to form pills the size of Firmiana simplex seeds. The traditional method ensures the herbs’ potency and facilitates proper dosage.

Q4: Can Qin Jiao Pills help with headaches and cold symptoms?

A4: Yes, Qin Jiao Pills are commonly used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat headaches and cold symptoms, especially those associated with wind-cold patterns. The formula’s ingredients, such as Angelica dahurica and Inula japonica, have properties that relieve sinus pressure and expel pathogenic wind. However, they are best taken under the guidance of a TCM practitioner for optimal results.

Q5: Why are Qin Jiao Pills considered a classic traditional Chinese medicine formula?

A5: Qin Jiao Pills are considered classic because they follow TCM principles of harmonizing exterior and interior conditions through careful herb pairing. The formula balances warming herbs like Zanthoxylum schinifolium with cooling ones like Rehmannia glutinosa to address both acute and chronic ailments. Their long-standing use and documented benefits—from easing rheumatic pain to alleviating colds—solidify their role in traditional Chinese medicine.