Yu Ping Feng San (Jade Screen Powder) — Home Decoction or Ready-Made Granules

Why people make this formula

The name translates literally as “Jade Screen Powder,” an image that captures its purpose well: like an invisible screen standing between the body and the outside world, this three-herb formula is designed to shore up the body’s outer defences (wei qi in Chinese medicine terms), making it harder for wind, cold, and pathogens to penetrate. It is particularly valued for children and adults who seem to catch every illness that passes through the room, and for those who sweat easily even without exertion. Ready-made granules are available from Chinese herb shops and are convenient to keep on hand; the three raw herbs can also be decocted simply at home.

Method

If using ready-made granules (easiest option):

1. Dissolve one dose of Yu Ping Feng San granules in hot water according to the pack instructions.
2. Add any optional herbs (e.g., magnolia flower buds, steeped first in a little hot water for 5–7 minutes) and stir.
3. Add a small amount of honey to improve the flavour for children.
4. Drink warm. Use 2–3 times per week for prevention; daily during periods of high exposure or symptom flare.

If cooking from raw herbs:

1. Rinse all herbs briefly under cold water.
2. Place astragalus, saposhnikovia, and white atractylodes in a small pot with 1.5 L of water.
3. Bring to a boil, then simmer over medium-low heat for about 20 minutes until reduced to approximately 600 ml.
4. If adding magnolia flowers or chrysanthemum for a specific variation, add them in the final 10 minutes.
5. Strain and drink in two portions over the course of the day.

Nourilo’s Tips

Ready-made Yu Ping Feng San granules are available at Chinese herb shops and online Asian health retailers — they are inexpensive, convenient, and reliable. Look for the version from Lanzhou pharmaceutical factory if you want one with good bioavailability. Granules in a sachet form work equally well — steep the sachet as a tea bag and add magnolia flower buds alongside it. If the granule form is not available to you, the three raw herbs are widely sold in Chinese herb shops internationally, and the simple decoction is just as effective. For children: always add a little honey to make it more palatable.