Wu Pi San 

Wu Pi San 

Alternative Name: Five-Peel Powder.[1]

Drug Composition:

• Zingiberis Pericarpium (Sheng Jiang Pi): 9g (Fresh Ginger Peel)

• Citri Reticulatae Pericarpium (Chen Ju Pi): 9g (Aged Tangerine Peel)

• Arecae Pericarpium (Da Fu Pi): 9g (Areca Peel/Betel Husk)

• Poriae Cutis (Fu Ling Pi): 9g (Poria Peel)

The formula consists of the four ingredients listed above in equal proportions.[2]

Method of Administration:

The traditional method is to grind the ingredients into a coarse powder. For each dose, take 9 grams of the powder, add it to 300ml of water, and decoct it until the liquid is reduced by about a fifth. The dregs are then strained, and the decoction is consumed warm at any time of day.

Functions:

This formula is indicated for a condition known in Traditional Chinese Medicine as “skin water” (皮水), which is characterized by edema due to spleen deficiency and an excess of dampness.[2] Its primary functions are to promote urination, reduce swelling, regulate Qi, and strengthen the spleen.[1][2]

It is used to treat symptoms such as:

• Generalized swelling of the body.[2][3]

• A heavy sensation in the limbs.[1][2]

• Fullness and distention in the chest and abdomen.[1][2]

• Shortness of breath and urgent breathing.[2]

• Difficulty with urination.[1][2]

• Edema during pregnancy.[2]

• A white and greasy tongue coating.[1][2]

Contraindications:

While taking this formula, it is advised to avoid raw, cold, greasy, and hard-to-digest foods.[4][5]

Source:

This formula is from the classic medical text Hua Shi Zhong Zang Jing (《华氏中藏经》), also known as The Master Hua’s Classic of the Middle Treasury.