The Kidney is the root of individual life: the wellspring of Water and Fire (Yin and Yang), and the storehouse of Essence (Jing). The Kidney receives and consolidates the refined Qi of food and fluid (Food Qi) generated by the Spleen and Stomach while harboring the Life Fire (Ming Huo) and Original Essence (Yuan Jing) that we inherit from our parents and ancestors. The extent to which Life Fire and Original Essence can be conserved ultimately determines the integrity and longevity of our personal existence and, to a significant extent, that of our children and descendants. In view of the profound role of the Kidney, great emphasis is placed on protecting and supplementing its capacity to store, dispense and secure the fundamental resources of life. Strengthen Water replenishes and consolidates Kidney Yin (Essence), invigorates Kidney Yang (Fire) and protects against the weakening of Qi and Yang resulting from the accumulation of Dampness and Cold. RATIONALE Prepared and raw Rehmannia root, together with Chinese yam rhizome, Asiatic cornelian cherry, Anemarrhena rhizome and Schisandra fruit, replenishes Moisture, consolidates Essence and dispels Heat. Chinese dodder seed, Eucommia bark and Chinese amomum fruit supplement Yin (Essence), invigorate Yang (Life Fire) and counter Cold. Together, Poria and Asian water plantain rhizome help to distribute Moisture and counter Dampness. This combination of herbs supports the role of the Kidney by replenishing and distributing Moisture (Jin-Ye), preserving Original Essence (Yuan Jing) and protecting Life Fire (Ming Huo).
