In Gui Zhi Tang, which herb serves as the deputy and what is its function?

In Gui Zhi Tang, which herb serves as the deputy and what is its function?

• A. Gui Zhi
• B. Sheng Jiang
• C. Bai Shao, consolidates interior (yin and fluids)
• D. Da Zao

Answer: (C)

Bai Shao is the deputy in Gui Zhi Tang, and its function is to nourish the yin and preserve fluids, stabilizing the interior as the formula releases exterior wind-cold. While Gui Zhi opens the channels and promotes sweating to release the pathogen, Bai Shao protects the yin and harmonizes the interior, helping to balance the Ying (nutritive) and Wei (defensive) aspects. This combination prevents excessive sweating from injuring yin and keeps the exterior release from overwhelming the body's reserves, which is why Bai Shao is the correct deputy for this formula.

Bai Shao is the deputy in Gui Zhi Tang, and its function is to nourish the yin and preserve fluids, stabilizing the interior as the formula releases exterior wind-cold. While Gui Zhi opens the channels and promotes sweating to release the pathogen, Bai Shao protects the yin and harmonizes the interior, helping to balance the Ying (nutritive) and Wei (defensive) aspects. This combination prevents excessive sweating from injuring yin and keeps the exterior release from overwhelming the body's reserves, which is why Bai Shao is the correct deputy for this formula.