Qing’e Pills

[Composition] Psoralea Fruit (Cullen corylifolium (L.) Medik.) 180g (stir-fry with sesame seeds until color changes, remove sesame seeds, take 150g powder), Eucommia Bark (Eucommia ulmoides Oliv., shredded) 150g, Walnut (Juglans regia L.) 1250g (remove shells, boil in water, remove membranes)

[Usage] The above ingredients are ground into a fine powder and made into pills with refined honey, each pill being the size of a Sterculia platanifolia seed. Take 30 to 50 pills each time, swallow with warm wine on an empty stomach, or alternatively with salted water.

[Functions] Blackens the beard and hair, prolongs life.

[Indications] Graying of beard and hair.

[Commentary] This formula originally came from Song Dynasty’s [Taiping Huimin Heji Ju Fang (The Pharmacopoeia of the Bureau of Taiping Huimin Pharmacy)]. The original book described it as “strengthening muscles and bones, invigorating blood circulation, blackening the beard and hair, and improving complexion”. In the formula, pogostemon (Psoralea corylifolia L., Bakuchi) functions to warm and tonify the Spleen and Kidney. Modern pharmacology has confirmed that psoralea is a photosensitive active substance. Its alcohol extract, when applied topically and combined with black light irradiation, can supports alopecia areata. Pogostemon is stir-fried with sesame until it changes color, aiming to absorb the active ingredients of sesame. Sesame is a sacred medicine for blackening and promoting hair growth, which can resist aging, nourish semen, enrich blood, and supports dry skin and hair as well as promote hair regrowth. Eucommia bark (Eucommia ulmoides Oliv.) tonifies the Liver and Kidney and nourishes essence and qi. Walnut (Juglans regia L.) tonifies the Kidney, consolidates essence, moistens the blood vessels, and blackens the beard and hair. Regular consumption can make the bones and flesh delicate and glossy. Walnut contains zinc, manganese, chromium, and vitamin E, which can maintain cardiovascular health, keep endocrine function normal, and delay aging. Its protein (17-27%) and fat (68-76%) have special structures that are easily absorbed by the human body, can enrich phospholipids, enhance cell vitality, and have a significant effect on helps maintain and supports arteriosclerosis. Walnut is known as a “longevity food”. When used in combination with pogostemon, [Ben Cao Tu Jing (Illustrated Classic of Materia Medica)] praises it by saying, “Long-term consumption can prolong life.”

Q1: What are Qing’e Pills used for in traditional Chinese medicine?

A1: Qing’e Pills are used in traditional Chinese medicine primarily to treat lower back pain and kidney deficiency. They are formulated to nourish the kidneys, strengthen the lower back, and alleviate symptoms such as soreness, weakness, and fatigue stemming from kidney yang deficiency. This classical remedy is particularly valued for its ability to restore vitality and support renal health.

Q2: What are the main Qing’e Pills ingredients?

A2: The main Qing’e Pills ingredients are Psoralea Fruit (Cullen corylifolium), Eucommia Bark (Eucommia ulmoides), and Walnut (Juglans regia). Psoralea and Eucommia are traditionally used to tonify the kidneys and strengthen the lower back, while Walnut nourishes the kidneys and supplements essence. These components work synergistically to address kidney deficiency and related lower back issues.

Q3: How do Qing’e Pills benefit lower back pain and kidney deficiency?

A3: Qing’e Pills benefit lower back pain and kidney deficiency by tonifying kidney yang, promoting blood circulation, and strengthening the sinews and bones. Psoralea and Eucommia help alleviate lumbar discomfort, while Walnut provides essential nutrients to support renal function and overall vitality. Regular use, as directed, helps restore balance and relieve chronic lower back weakness.

Q4: Can Qing’e Pills be used for chronic lower back pain?

A4: Yes, Qing’e Pills can be used for chronic lower back pain, especially when associated with kidney deficiency. The combination of Psoralea, Eucommia, and Walnut targets the root cause by invigorating the kidneys and reinforcing the lower back. However, it is advisable to consult a qualified practitioner to ensure the diagnosis aligns with the formula’s indications.

Q5: How should Qing’e Pills be taken according to traditional usage?

A5: According to traditional usage, Qing’e Pills are taken as honeyed pills the size of a Sterculia platanifolia seed. The recommended dose is 30 to 50 pills per dose, swallowed with warm water. The pills are made from a fine powder of the ingredients including Psoralea, Eucommia, and Walnut, and should be used consistently for best results in treating lower back pain and kidney deficiency.