Tian Wang Bu Xin Dan
In traditional TCM context, Tian Wang Bu Xin Dan (天王补心丹) is a classic herbal formula. It is traditionally used to nourishes Heart Yin, enriches Blood, tonifies the Heart, calms the Shen, clears deficiency Fire. Treats insomnia with palpitations, mental restlessness, night sweats, dry mouth, an
At a Glance
Traditional TCM Context
Classic formula · 3 ingredients
Nourishes Heart Yin, enriches Blood, tonifies the Heart, calms the Shen, clears deficiency Fire. Treats insomnia with palpitations, mental restlessness, night sweats, dry mouth, and sore tongue.
Direct Modern Evidence
1 exact formula paper
Safety Notes
Formula-specific safety information is limited
MODERATE CAUTION. The traditional formulation contains Zhu Sha (Cinnabar, HgS — mercury sulfide) as a key ingredient for "calming the spirit." Due to mercury content, modern formulations often substitute or omit this ingredient. If the traditional formulation is used, it must be strictly supervised by a qualified TCM practitioner with attention to cumulative mercury exposure. Contraindicated in pregnancy, breastfeeding, children, and patients with renal impairment. Contains Xuan Shen (Scrophularia) and Sheng Di Huang (Rehmannia) — these cooling herbs may cause loose stools in Spleen-deficient individuals. Not recommended for long-term continuous use due to potential heavy metal accumulation.
Traditional TCM Perspective
Traditional Formula Role
A classic formula for insomnia due to Heart Yin Deficiency with internal Heat. Nourishes Yin, enriches the Blood, tonifies the Heart, and calms the Shen. One of the most comprehensive Heart-nourishing formulas in TCM.
Core TCM Functions
Nourishes Heart Yin, enriches Blood, tonifies the Heart, calms the Shen, clears deficiency Fire. Treats insomnia with palpitations, mental restlessness, night sweats, dry mouth, and sore tongue.
Core TCM Patterns
What Current Research Does—and Does Not—Show
A systematic review in the current TCMIO reference set examined Tian Wang Bu Xin Dan for insomnia, reporting on pooled outcomes from multiple studies. The review noted limitations in study methodology. The traditional formulation contains Zhu Sha (cinnabar) with mercury content, requiring professional supervision.
Research is classified by how closely it matches this formula. Only studies that explicitly name and evaluate the exact formula composition are presented as direct evidence. Variant formulas, family-related formulas, and single-ingredient studies are shown separately.
Exact Formula Research
(1)Studies where the formula name, composition, and study subject are confirmed to match Tian Wang Bu Xin Dan.
Safety & Boundaries
Formula-Specific Safety Notes
MODERATE CAUTION. The traditional formulation contains Zhu Sha (Cinnabar, HgS — mercury sulfide) as a key ingredient for "calming the spirit." Due to mercury content, modern formulations often substitute or omit this ingredient. If the traditional formulation is used, it must be strictly supervised by a qualified TCM practitioner with attention to cumulative mercury exposure. Contraindicated in pregnancy, breastfeeding, children, and patients with renal impairment. Contains Xuan Shen (Scrophularia) and Sheng Di Huang (Rehmannia) — these cooling herbs may cause loose stools in Spleen-deficient individuals. Not recommended for long-term continuous use due to potential heavy metal accumulation.
Contraindications
Contraindicated in pregnancy, breastfeeding, children, renal impairment, Spleen-stomach deficiency cold, and known heavy metal sensitivity. Must be used under professional supervision only.
General Safety Boundary
- TCMIO provides educational information only — not medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment recommendations.
- Formula-level safety profiles may differ from individual herb profiles. Consult a qualified TCM practitioner for individualized guidance.
- For herb-specific safety information, see the individual herb profiles: Bai Zi Ren, Fu Shen, Suan Zao Ren.
Formula Composition
The following herbs compose Tian Wang Bu Xin Dan according to traditional formula structure. Roles are labeled in Traditional Formula Context.
Click any herb to view its full detail page.
Bai Zi Ren
柏子仁
Platycladi Semen
Nourishes the Heart, calms the Shen, moistens the intestines, promotes bowel movement. Used in Tian Wang Bu Xin Dan.
Fu Shen
茯神
Poria cum Radix Pini
Calms the Shen (spirit), strengthens the Spleen, promotes urination. Specifically used when insomnia has an anxiety/restlessness component.
Suan Zao Ren
酸枣仁
Ziziphi Spinosae Semen
Nourishes Heart Blood, calms the Shen (spirit), arrests sweating. Primary herb for insomnia.
Traditional Formula Context: Ingredient roles (Chief/Deputy/Assistant/Envoy) reflect traditional TCM formulary theory. These classifications are educational and do not constitute modern pharmacological ranking.
Related Knowledge
Related Symptoms(3)
Related TCM Patterns(3)
Related Herbs(3)
Related Conditions(1)
Related Questions(1)
Sources(2)
- 1.
Chinese Pharmacopoeia Commission. Chinese Pharmacopoeia 2020 Edition — Tian Wang Bu Xin Dan. Chinese Pharmacopoeia 2020, Vol. I. 2020.
Bibliographic details
Reliability: official
Source type: official_compendium
- 2.
Various authors. Tian Wang Bu Xin Dan for Insomnia: A Systematic Review of Efficacy and Safety. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine. 2019.
Bibliographic details
Reliability: High
Source type: Systematic Review
Medical Disclaimer: The information on TCMIO is provided for educational purposes only. It is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using any herbal products, starting any new treatment, or making changes to your existing healthcare regimen. Do not stop or modify any prescribed treatment without consulting your healthcare provider.
If you are experiencing severe or urgent symptoms, seek immediate medical attention by calling emergency services or visiting the nearest emergency department.