Which statement is true about the ratio in Gui Zhi Shao Yao Zhi Mu Tang?

• A. Gui Zhi 8g and Bai Shao 6g
• B. 12g and 9g
• C. 2g and 1g
• D. Gui Zhi 12g and Bai Shao 9g

Answer: (D)

The ratio reflects balancing exterior release with interior nourishment. Gui Zhi is warming and dispersing, helping to push out the exterior pathogens, while Bai Shao nourishes the yin and moderates the movement, preventing over-dispersal from injuring the interior. In Gui Zhi Shao Yao Zhi Mu Tang, the classic combination uses a 4:3 relationship between these two herbs, with Gui Zhi at 12 g and Bai Shao at 9 g. This arrangement keeps the exterior-dispelling action strong enough to address the surface symptoms, while the Bai Shao (along with Zhi Mu) provides enough yin-nourishing and damp-heat-countering effect to harmonize and protect the interior.