Jian Gu (KB-C)
Chinese Formula for Strengthening Deficient “Water”
When we think of the characteristics of water, we can readily see that water is fluid, flexible, flowing and lubricating. So, when these qualities are lacking in the body, the Chinese would say that one is deficient in the water element (or energy). This lack of water energy would make a person stiff, brittle, rigid and dry.
Jian Gu is a Chinese formula that corrects this deficiency of water energy. It strengthens the organs associated with water in the body, the kidneys and bladder. But it also strengthens the bones. In Chinese medicine, the kidneys help “build the bones.” Although this may seem like a strange concept to Western minds, the kidneys also regulate the balance of mineral electrolytes and flush acid waste to help maintain pH balance, which maintains the health of the structural system. Acid pH contributes to a loss of bone density.
Sold under the trade name KB-C, Jian Gu can be helpful for broken bones, arthritis, backache, weak and brittle bones (osteoporosis), constipation, frequent urination (irritable bladder), chronic back problems, weak knees and ankles, kidney inflammation, kidney stones, prostate swelling, impotence, fatigue and insomnia due to waking up frequently to urinate.
Fear is the emotion associated with the kidneys, and KB-C can also be helpful for a person who is fearful and timid and lacks “back bone.” It rejuvenates and strengthens the bones (especially the spine), kidneys, connective tissues and sexual organs. This leads to a healthier urogenital system and more energy and sexual vitality.
Here is a list of the ingredients in this formula.
Eucommia is the key herb of KB-C. It strengthens kidney energy. It has been used to treat backache, painful urination, impotence, muscular weakness and osteoporosis.
Cistanche supports eucommia by enhancing urinary flow. It has been used to treat impotence and frequent urination.
The following herbs support the structure building properties of KB-C: Rehmannia Root is a bitter, astringent herb. It reduces inflammation and strengthens capillaries. It has been used to treat infertility. Morinda aids in the regeneration of tissues. It has been used to treat arthritis, impotence, backache, joint aches and osteoporosis. Drynaria strengthens connective tissue by strengthening capillaries. It has been used to treat arthritis, backache, joint pain, broken bones and osteoporosis.
Achyranthes increases the production of urine and relieves pain. It promotes menstruation. It has mucilaginous compounds that soothe inflamed tissue. It has been used to treat backache, muscle aches and painful urination.
Epimedium increases the flow of urine. It has been used for impotence, back pain and arthritis.
Hoelen is a bitter sedative that increases urine flow. Its energy is neutralizing. It has been used to treat swelling, insomnia, frequent urination and water retention.
Dipsacus is a bitter root that enhances the production of urine. It has been used to treat joint pain, arthritis, rheumatism, uterine bleeding and backache.
Lycium Fruit promotes the regeneration of liver cells. It has been used to treat backache and impotence.
Dioscorea is an expectorant that also speeds healing. It has been used to treat nocturnal emission and frequent urination.
Ligustrum Fruit relieves pain, tones the heart, increases the flow of urine and strengthens immunity. It has been used to treat lower back pain, urinary tract infection, colds and flu.
Cornus Fruit promotes the flow of urine, shrinks swollen tissues, lowers blood pressure and increases immune response. It has been used to treat swollen tissues and urinary difficulty.
Dong Quai relieves smooth muscle spasms (especially in the uterus), promotes menstrual flow, reduces pain and inflammation. It has been used to treat female complaints, arthritis and headaches.
Panax Ginseng is an energy tonic. It improves mental capabilities and physical stamina, stimulates the endocrine system and reproductive organs and extends life span. It is adaptogenic. It has been used to treat impotence, forgetfulness, fatigue and gynecological problems.
Astragalus has a slightly warm energy. It increases the flow of urine and immune response. It has been used to treat fatigue, debility, urinary tract infections, edema, inflammation of the kidneys and night sweats.
Liguidambar is a bitter herb which promotes the movement of Chi (vital energy) and increases the flow of urine. It has been used to treat pain and stiffness of lower back and knees.
Atractylodes is a general tonic and digestive aid. It has been used to treat loss of energy, bloating and arthritis.
Usage
To strengthen weak bones and kidneys take 3 capsules 3 times daily. Also available as a TCM concentrate where the dose is 1 capsule two to three times daily.
Selected References
Chinese Herbal Medicine: Materia Medica by Dan Bensky and Andrew Gamble
An Illustrated Dictionary of Chinese Medicinal Herbs by Wee Yeow and Hsuan Keng
Nutritional Herbology by Mark Pedersen
The Comprehensive Guide to Nature’s Sunshine Products by Tree of Light
