Shen-chu
Synopsis
Shen-Chu, also known as shenqu, medicated leaven, or "divine ferment," is a traditional Chinese medicinal preparation made from a fermented mixture of herbs, grains, and sometimes wheat bran. Its formulation varies, but common ingredients include Artemisia annua (qing hao), Polygonum hydropiper (laliao), wheat flour, and sometimes apricot kernels or herbs known for their digestive qualities. The mixture is left to ferment and dry into cakes or powders, resulting in a product rich in beneficial enzymes and microbial metabolites.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Shen-Chu is primarily used to aid digestion and harmonize the stomach. It is categorized as a “food stagnation” remedy—used when undigested food accumulates in the gastrointestinal tract, resulting in bloating, fullness, indigestion, or diarrhea. Shen-Chu works by promoting the movement and transformation of food and fluids in the digestive system. Its mild warming and dispersing properties help relieve symptoms of sluggish digestion, especially from overeating or consuming hard-to-digest meals.
Modern research has shown that the fermentation process involved in producing Shen-Chu enhances the bioavailability of nutrients and produces enzymes such as amylase and protease, which assist in breaking down carbohydrates and proteins. Some studies have also identified mild antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects, likely linked to its probiotic and enzymatic content.
Historical Use:
Shen-Chu has been used for centuries in Chinese medicine, with origins likely dating back to the Song or Yuan dynasties. It was traditionally crafted in households or apothecaries using localized herbs and grains, making it both a folk remedy and a formalized part of materia medica. It was included in classical medical texts such as the Compendium of Materia Medica by Li Shizhen, where it was praised for its ability to “relieve food accumulation” and “transform turbidity.”
Because of its fermented nature, Shen-Chu held a unique place in Chinese herbal medicine—bridging the worlds of nutrition and pharmacology. It was often used in combination with other herbs like hawthorn berry (shan zha) and malted barley (mai ya) to enhance digestive fire and alleviate stagnation. In particular, it was recommended after feasts, greasy meals, or when indigestion interfered with appetite and nutrient absorption.
Although less well-known in the West, Shen-Chu remains a staple in TCM formulas for indigestion, including both pediatric and adult applications. Today, standardized versions are available in powder or pill form in Chinese pharmacies and are often included in classical digestive formulas such as Bao He Wan (Preserve Harmony Pill), especially for cases involving bloating, gas, and food stagnation from dietary excess.
Body Systems
Digestive System (Science)
Gastrointestinal Tract (Science)
Stomach (Science)