This page introduces Shakuyakukanzoto in Japanese Traditional Herbal Medicine (Japanese Kampo Medicine).
Name of Traditional Herbal Medicine
| Japanese reading | Shakuyakukanzoto | 芍薬甘草湯 |
| Chinese reading | Shao Yao Gan Cao Tang | 芍药甘草汤 |
Components (Formulas)
The following herbs compose Shakuyakukanzoto.
| Roles of Herbs | Herb | English Name | Japanese Name | Chinese Name |
| 君: Monarch | 芍薬 | Peony Root | Shakuyaku シャクヤク | Shao Yao |
| 臣: Minister | 甘草 | Glycyrrhiza | Kanzo カンゾウ | Gan Cao |
| 佐: Assistant | – | – | – | – |
| 使: Courier/Guide | – | – | – | – |
The formula of Shakuyakukanzoto (Shao Yao Gan Cao Tang) originates from 傷寒論 (Shokanron in Japanese / Shan Han Lun in Chinese), also known as ‘Treatise on Cold Damage Disorders’ which was issued approximately 1800 years ago.
General Reputation in Japan
Shakuyakukanzoto is a well-known herbal medicines in Japan. Many people are aware that Shakuyakukanzoto is effective in treating cramps. It is often ranked in the top 10 of herbal medicine sales rankings for medical use. It is considered a commonly used medicine because of its immediate effect and the fact that there are no modern medicines that have the same effects or actions.
Explanation in Japanese Kampo Traditional Medicine
Shakuyakukanzoto consists of peony root and glycyrrhiza.
Peony contributes to the nourishment of blood in the liver, while Glycyrrhiza helps relax muscles and alleviate pain. Peony root to soften the liver, it supports the nourishment of muscule, ultimately aiding in the reduction of spasms and alleviation of pain.
Note: In traditional medicine, liver is related to muscle, tendons, nail, eye etc
Roles of Herbs in the Medicine
“君臣佐使(Monarch, Minister, Assistant, Courier)” refers the collaborative roles and interactions and functions among the herbals in a Kampo traditional medicine formula. Each Kampo medicine has a balanced and harmonious composition.
- “君” (Monarch) signifies the principal herb that plays a central role.
- “臣” (Minister) refers to assisting herbs that complement and support the principal herb.
- “佐” (Assistant) denotes additional herbs that further assist and enhance the formula’s efficacy.
- “使” (Courier/Guide) represents herbs that harmonize the entire formula, promoting synergy.
Indications and Effects from Approval standards for OTC Kampo products by the goverment.
〔効能・効果〕体力に関わらず使用でき、筋肉の急激なけいれんを伴う痛みのあるものの次の諸症：こむらがえり、筋肉のけいれん、腹痛、腰痛
(Translation)
[Indications/Efficacy] Can be used regardless of physical strength, and can be used to treat the following symptoms of: pain accompanied by sudden muscle spasms: cramps, muscle spasms, abdominal pain, and lower back pain.
Referece
Tsumura Kampo Medicine company information for Shakuyakukanzoto (芍薬甘草湯)
https://www.tsumura.co.jp/products/ippan/item/068_otc_en.pdf
https://www.tsumura.co.jp/english/products/ippan/023/index.html
About Tsumura
Tsumura is the one of the largest Kampo Medicine Company in Japan. Tsumura controls the quality and hygiene of its herbs according to high standards. Their products are safe herbal medicines manufactured in accordance with laws and management standards in Japan. Tsumura is highly recognized and trusted in Japan.
OTC Japanese Kampo Products (Link to Amazon)
The majority of Kampo Medicines used in Japan are extract products (granules, tablets). Kracie and Tsumura are one of large Kampo companies in Japan.
Video: Buy Kampo Medicine at Drugstore in Japan
Video: Buy Kampo Medicine at Convenience Store in Japan
The Kampo Product Manufacturing Process (TSUMURA page)
General Note
Too much Glycyrrhiza in general, not just in this formula, has negative effects on the body. Dosage and dosage should be followed.
Kampo Diagnosis & Medicine Note
- Blood Deficiency(血虚/Kekko/Xue Xu)
- Tonify Liver