In Gui Zhi Fu Ling Wan, which herb is listed as the deputy (jun)?

• A. Chi/Bai Shao
• B. Gui Zhi
• C. Fu Ling
• D. Tao Ren

Answer: (A)

The main idea here is how this formula uses one herb to lead the action and another to balance and support it. Gui Zhi Fu Ling Wan targets stagnation of blood in the uterus with underlying deficiency, so the herb that leads the action is Gui Zhi, moving and warming to dispel stasis. The deputy herb, White Peony (Bai Shao), provides the balancing support: it nourishes the blood and preserves Yin, which keeps the warming and moving effects from overdoing it and helps stabilize the uterine vessels. This harmonizing role is essential in a postpartum pattern where you want blood to move but also to be nourished and protected.

A useful contrast: Chi Shao (red peony) also moves blood and helps break up stasis, but its action is more aggressive on blood movement and can be drying. In this formula, Bai Shao fits the deputy’s stabilizing, nourishing function best, especially in a pattern that involves deficiency alongside stagnation. The other ingredients support dampness, calm the mind, or actively move blood, but Bai Shao’s nourishing, Yin-preserving support is what makes it the deputy.