Our ancestors said, "Essence and blood share the same origin, qi generates and nourishes blood," which makes perfect sense even today. Have you noticed that some people find kidney-tonifying medicines effective at first, but the effects disappear as soon as they stop taking them? It's like pouring water into a leaking bucket—if you only keep adding water without patching the holes, it will never hold. In fact, kidney essence, qi, and blood are like three strands twisted into a rope—if any one is missing, it loses strength. Today, I'll share an ancient formula with just three common herbs to replenish essence, qi, and blood all at once.

The first herb is Psoralea corylifolia, a seasoned veteran in kidney nourishment. Traditional Chinese Medicine holds that "the kidneys govern bones and generate marrow." Insufficient kidney yang is like a weakly burning stove, and Psoralea corylifolia acts like adding coal to the stove, stoking the fire of the "Gate of Life." It's especially suitable for those with cold hands and feet in winter, weak lower back and legs, or lack of energy when walking. Conditions like osteoporosis in the elderly are seen in TCM as resulting from kidney essence deficiency leading to hollow marrow. Psoralea corylifolia helps replenish the marrow thoroughly. However, note that this herb is warm in nature, so those prone to internal heat should balance it with other herbs.

The second herb is Poria (Fu Ling). Don't be fooled by its white, tofu-like appearance—it's remarkably potent at replenishing qi. Traditional Chinese medicine states that "the spleen is the source of qi and blood production." The spleen and stomach are like the household rice jar, and Poria can mend the holes in the jar while also expanding its capacity. Those who feel drowsy after meals, lack energy when speaking, or have a sallow complexion are likely suffering from spleen deficiency and insufficient qi. When paired with Chinese yam (Shan Yao) and Atractylodes (Bai Zhu), Poria acts like a water pump for the spleen and stomach, naturally boosting qi and blood.

The third herb is Myrrh (Mo Yao), renowned in the realm of blood circulation as a "scavenger." When qi and blood flow sluggishly, it’s akin to a traffic jam in the city—Myrrh clears the congested pathways. This is especially beneficial for women experiencing scanty, dark-colored menstrual flow or those prone to unexplained bruises, as these are signs of blood stasis. Combined with Angelica (Dang Gui) and Chuanxiong (Chuan Xiong), Myrrh helps qi and blood circulate like flowing water. However, it should be used cautiously by pregnant women and those with heavy menstrual bleeding.

These three herbs work together like a "three-cylinder engine" for the body: Psoralea (Bu Gu Zhi) governs kidney essence, Poria stabilizes spleen qi, and Myrrh regulates qi and blood flow. This combination is particularly suitable for those who feel cold easily, tire quickly, have a pale complexion, or are prone to dark spots. However, it’s important to note that traditional Chinese medicine emphasizes syndrome differentiation and treatment. It’s best to consult a TCM practitioner for pulse diagnosis before use. For daily maintenance, brewing Five-Red Soup (red dates, red beans, red-skinned peanuts, goji berries, and brown sugar) as tea, along with early sleep, rising early, and moderate exercise, can gradually replenish essence, qi, and blood. Remember, health cultivation is like farming—consistent care is key. Don’t expect a quick fix after just a few doses!