Life isn't easy these days—days are like battles at work, and nights are filled with worries both at home and outside. Over time, the body inevitably starts showing signs of trouble. In my clinic, I often see people in their thirties constantly complaining of sore backs, weak legs, and fatigue, while others experience memory decline or indecisiveness. These issues are closely linked to kidney deficiency.

In traditional Chinese medicine, the kidneys are considered the "foundation of innate constitution," much like the family savings. The kidneys govern bones and generate marrow. When kidney essence is abundant, bones remain strong and the mind stays sharp. If kidney essence becomes deficient, bones become like trees lacking nourishment, often leading to soreness and weakness in the waist and legs. Insufficient kidney qi can also affect the lungs—some people experience shortness of breath and palpitations with minimal exertion, which is a sign of the kidneys failing to grasp qi. For some elderly individuals, experiencing diarrhea before dawn or urinary incontinence is, from a TCM perspective, a signal of unconsolidated kidney qi.

Ming Dynasty renowned physician Zhang Jinyue had a tonic formula called Da Bu Yuan Jian (Great Tonifying Original Decoction), recorded in "Jinyue's Complete Compendium," which can be called the "all-purpose remedy" in the field of tonification. This formula emphasizes "nourishing both congenital and acquired constitutions together": Ginseng replenishes vital energy, much like recharging the body; Prepared Rehmannia and Chinese Angelica nourish the blood, ensuring that ample blood supports vigorous qi; Goji Berries and Cornus Officinalis specifically tonify the liver and kidneys, as strong liver and kidneys make the sinews and bones sturdy; Eucommia Bark warms and tonifies kidney yang, akin to installing a small sun in the body; Licorice Root and Chinese Yam regulate and nourish the spleen and stomach, enabling the body to effectively absorb nutrients when the digestive system is healthy.

The brilliance of this prescription lies in its precise combination of ingredients: ginseng paired with Rehmannia glutinosa preparata forms Zhang Jingyue's original formula "Liang Yi Gao," specifically designed for those suffering from severe depletion of vitality; goji berries paired with cornus officinalis nourish both the liver and kidneys; eucommia bark paired with licorice warms yang without injuring yin. This formula not only replenishes qi and blood, but also strengthens the tendons and bones, caring for both the innate and acquired constitutions. In today's world, where people face high stress and excessive consumption, this formula is particularly suitable for long-term regulation. However, it is best to consult a TCM practitioner for a pulse diagnosis and adjust the dosage based on your constitution, ensuring a stable and effective replenishment.

If you experience the symptoms mentioned above, the first step is to examine your tongue coating. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, we emphasize syndrome differentiation and treatment, just like using the right key for the right lock. Different symptoms require different prescriptions, so tailored treatment can cure the illness effectively and thoroughly.