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Gui Pi Tang

A classical Chinese multi-herb formula (also sold as Gui Pi Wan) for insomnia with worry and fatigue. Meta-analyses of Chinese trials are positive, but almost all the included studies are small, single-centre and at high risk of bias.

Evidence last reviewed: August 2026

What the science says

  • Insomnia Limited evidence

    A systematic review and meta-analysis of Guipi decoction for insomnia found improvement in sleep scores compared with control, while noting that the included randomised trials were of low methodological quality, mostly published in Chinese and prone to publication bias. A more recent network meta-analysis of Chinese herbal formulas for insomnia reaches the same structural caveat: many positive trials, little reliable evidence.

  • Fatigue and "worry" symptoms Limited evidence

    The formula is traditionally prescribed for a syndrome combining poor sleep, palpitations, fatigue and overthinking. No trial has tested it against a validated anxiety or fatigue outcome in a Western population, and it is designed to be prescribed by pattern rather than taken off the shelf.

Dosage & safety

Studied doseTraditionally taken as a decoction, or as the pill form (Gui Pi Wan) at roughly 6–9 g two to three times daily. Trial preparations vary widely, which makes doses hard to compare.
SafetyContains many herbs, including liquorice (Glycyrrhiza), which in prolonged or high use can raise blood pressure and lower potassium — a genuine concern for anyone hypertensive or on diuretics. Ginseng in the formula can cause agitation and interacts with warfarin and stimulants. Product quality varies and adulteration with pharmaceuticals has been documented in some imported Chinese patent medicines. Not for use in pregnancy without a qualified practitioner.

Scientific references

Where to buy

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