Tokishakuyakusan (Angelica and Peony)

Tokishakuyakusan is a multi-herb Traditional Chinese Medicine formula, not a single nutritional ingredient, so macronutrient content is not clinically relevant in standard dietary terms. Its bioactive profile is defined by its six constituent herbs: Angelica acutiloba (Toki), Paeonia lactiflora (Shakuyaku), Alisma orientale (Takusha), Atractylodes lancea (Sojutsu), Poria cocos (Bukuryo), and Cnidium officinale (Senkyu). Key bioactive compounds include: (1) Ferulic acid from Angelica acutiloba — approximately 0.1–0.5 mg per standard daily dose, known for antioxidant and vasodilatory effects, moderate oral bioavailability (~30–40%); (2) Paeoniflorin from Paeonia lactiflora — approximately 2–8 mg per daily dose, with bioavailability estimated at 3–5% due to poor intestinal absorption, though gut microbiota enhance conversion to active metabolites; (3) Ligustilide from Cnidium officinale — a volatile phthalide compound present at approximately 0.5–2 mg per dose, responsible for smooth muscle relaxation; (4) Alisol A and B triterpenoids from Alisma orientale — present at trace concentrations, supporting diuretic and lipid-modulating activity; (5) Pachymic acid and beta-glucans from Poria cocos — polysaccharide content approximately 5–15 mg per dose, with immunomodulatory properties; (6) Atractylenolide I and III from Atractylodes — present at sub-milligram concentrations, contributing anti-inflammatory activity. The formula contains negligible dietary fiber, protein, or fat in clinical doses. Mineral content is minimal but includes trace iron and magnesium from plant material. Bioavailability is significantly influenced by the synergistic herb matrix, with some compounds showing enhanced absorption when co-administered within the full formula compared to isolated extracts.