Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang

Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang is a foundational formula for Spleen Qi deficiency with sinking of clear Yang. It is selected when chronic deficiency results in poor tissue tone, reduced containment and failure of normal upward support.

In veterinary terms, the Chinese Spleen corresponds closely to digestive transformation and pancreatic-regulatory function. When Spleen Qi is weak, tissues lose tone, fluids are poorly managed and structural support begins to fail. This may contribute to prolapse, incontinence, urgency and chronic weakness.

Astragalus and ginseng strongly tonify Qi. Atractylodes and licorice strengthen the Middle Burner and support digestive function. Bupleurum and Cimicifuga raise clear Yang and restore upward movement. Dong quai nourishes Blood and supports peripheral circulation so that tonification does not become too dry or static.

This formula is particularly useful in animals with chronic weakness affecting continence, structural support and circulation. It is a harmonising formula rather than a strongly dispersing or strongly clearing one.

Clinical Cues

Consider this formula in animals presenting with:

• Hormonally responsive urinary incontinence
  Rectal or uterine prolapse
  
• Fecal urgency, poor anal tone or mild fecal incontinence
  
• Constipation associated with weakness rather than dryness
  
• Chronic nail bed infections or poor distal circulation
  
• Generalised weakness with reduced structural tone
  

May accompany

• Toned but weak pulse
  
• Pale or pale-lavender tongue
  
• Chronicity rather than acute inflammation
  
• Signs of sinking, sagging or prolapse
  

Think: Spleen Qi deficiency with sinking Yang and poor structural tone.

Astragalus

Ginseng

Atractylodes

Licorice

Chinese Angelica

Tangerine Peel

Bupleurum

Cimicifuga

Dogs up to 5 kg Give ¼ of a teaspoon twice daily

5-10 kg Give ½ a teaspoon twice daily

10-15 kg Give ¾ of a teaspoon twice daily

15-20 kg Give 1 teaspoon twice daily

20-30 kg Give 1 ½ teaspoons twice daily

30-40 kg Give 2 teaspoons twice daily

It is advised to start on a lower dose and work up to the full dose over a week or so to check it is a good fit for your dog. The above dosing guidelines can be adjusted. For animals that have had benefit from the herbs, a lower dose may be required to maintain or wean off the formula. Conversely, animals may be given more frequent or higher doses when the effect is required more quickly and the formula choice is certain.

Ways to get herbs into pets.
Most dogs with a good appetite will simply eat herbal mixtures in their food. If animals have a weak appetite or are otherwise picky with their choices there area few other ways to entice them.
Mix herbs with a small amount of a high value treat – eg mince, sardines, cheese.
Mix herbs into a bone broth and pour over food.
If owners are still having trouble, gelatin food capsules can be bought inexpensively and herbs put into them. Owners then need to give the capsule either directly into the mouth or again, mixed in food.