Prepared Tortoise Plastron … Classic Formulas
Zhi Gui Ban · Plastrum Testudinis Praeparatum
Primary Actions
- Nourishes Yin and anchors rising Yang ... prepared Gui Ban is used for chronic deficiency patterns with dizziness, tidal heat, bone steaming, or restless sleep.
- Strengthens bone and fills marrow ... it is classically used for weak low back and knees, developmental weakness, and long-term depletion states.
- Supports blood and stabilizes deep deficiency patterns ... traditional use extends to chronic depletion affecting the Chong and Ren, especially when deficiency Heat and weakness travel together.
Classic Formulas
- Da Bu Yin Wan ... Gui Ban is central for Kidney-Yin deficiency with deficiency Heat and bone steaming.
- Da Ding Feng Zhu ... tortoise plastron helps enrich Yin and extinguish internal wind in severe depletion patterns.
- Zuo Gui Wan and related essence-tonifying strategies ... plastron or its gelatin derivatives are used when marrow and deep Yin support are needed.
Classical Text References
- Materia medica texts describe Gui Ban as nourishing Yin, suppressing Yang, strengthening bone, and benefiting chronic deficiency states.
- Its heavy descending nature explains why it is used for long depletion patterns rather than quick symptomatic relief.
- Prepared plastron is traditionally preferred for pharmacy handling and long-simmering formulas.