A robust function of the digestive system ensures the body to obtain sufficient nutrients and, from the view of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), depends on the action of the Spleen. The Spleen is in charge of absorbing and transporting the nutrients from digestion around the body and transforming them into the Yin, Yang, and Qi energy etc, the fundamental elements in regulating our overall body functions. (Please note that the Spleen in TCM does not correspond to today's anatomical spleen but is rather a digestion functional concept.)

When the Spleen is weak, its transformative and transportive functions are compromised, causing "Spleen deficiency" in TCM terms. The Spleen deficiency is typically marked by signs such as reduced appetite, bloating, abdominal distention, loose stool, a greasy tongue coating which may be slightly yellow, and a frail and deficient pulse.

Jian Pi Pian is a classic Chinese herbal formula that is designed for the complex presentation of Spleen deficiency alongside food stagnation. Jian Pi Pian tonifies the Spleen, regulates Stomach Qi, reduces both dampness and food retention, and mildly clears heat.? Although this formula is mainly tonifying, it also contains dispersing herbs and therefore should be used with signs of both deficiency and stagnation. Jian Pi Pian is an appreciated formula for promoting digestion in cases with the appropriate presentation of Spleen deficiency.