Goshajinkigan (GJG) is a traditional ten-herb Kampo formula that has been used in Japan and China for centuries to support what East Asian medicine calls 'kidney yang' — the body's warming, activating energy tied to aging, nerve health, and lower body vitality. It is one of the most widely prescribed Kampo formulas in Japanese clinical practice today, available as a standardized extract through licensed Kampo practitioners and in some integrative oncology settings. The formula builds on the classical Chinese prescription Jinkigan (Shen Qi Wan) with the addition of Achyranthes and Plantago to strengthen its action on the lower limbs and urinary tract.

The formula works through several overlapping pathways. Its herbs collectively support healthy nerve signaling, reduce oxidative stress in nerve tissue, and promote circulation to the extremities — which explains why it's used for both neuropathy and cold, weak legs. Rehmannia and Cornus provide antioxidant and anti-inflammatory support, while processed aconite is thought to improve peripheral blood flow and reduce pain signaling. Plantago seed and Alisma support fluid metabolism, which is why the formula is effective for urinary discomfort as well.

In Japan, GJG is most commonly prescribed as a standardized hot-water extract granule (Tsumura formulation, TJ-107), which is the form used in most clinical trials. Tablet and capsule forms are available in integrative health settings. Traditional decoction involves simmering the raw herbs — this is closer to the classical preparation but less convenient. Granules dissolve in hot water and are taken two to three times daily.

• Chemotherapy-induced nerve pain (CIPN)
• Diabetic neuropathy and nerve pain
• Overactive bladder and frequent urination
• Cold, weak, or numb legs (lower body circulation)
• Peripheral neuropathy
• Urinary incontinence in older adults
• Neuropathic pain and tingling in hands and feet
• Age-related lower body weakness and fatigue
• Lower back pain and kidney deficiency (Kampo)
• Oxaliplatin neuropathy (cancer treatment side effect)

• Progression of chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy when started early in treatment
• Worsening of urinary urgency episodes in adults with overactive bladder

• Black sesame seeds — A traditional kidney-nourishing food in East Asian medicine, supports the same 'kidney yin and yang' pathway that GJG targets; rich in zinc, antioxidants, and healthy fats that support nerve and hormonal health.
• Walnuts — Long used in Chinese medicine to support kidney yang and lower back strength; provide omega-3 fatty acids and polyphenols that support nerve tissue health — a core target of GJG.
• Black beans — Deeply pigmented legumes traditionally associated with kidney support in East Asian dietary therapy; provide magnesium, B vitamins, and antioxidants that support nerve and circulatory health.
• Goji berries (wolfberries) — Closely related to one of GJG's key ingredient families (Lycium); support antioxidant protection of nerve tissue and are used in traditional kidney-nourishing dietary prescriptions alongside GJG-type formulas.
• Warming spices (cinnamon, ginger) — Cinnamon is one of GJG's ten ingredients and supports peripheral circulation; ginger similarly promotes blood flow to the extremities. Including both in the diet supports the formula's warming circulatory goals.

• Nausea or stomach upset (most common, especially on empty stomach)
• Loose stools or mild diarrhea
• Loss of appetite
• Skin rash (rare allergic response)
• Palpitations at high doses (due to aconite alkaloid content — rare at standard doses)
• Elevated liver enzymes (very rare; reported in isolated cases with long-term use)

• Recommended daily: Standard Japanese clinical dose: 7.5 g per day of the standardized Tsumura extract granule (TJ-107), typically divided into two to three doses. This is equivalent to approximately 15 g of the raw herb combination daily.
• Best time of day: Traditionally taken before meals — typically 30 minutes before breakfast, lunch, and dinner when using the three-times-daily dosing schedule.
• With or without food: Traditionally taken before meals on a relatively empty stomach to maximize absorption. If stomach upset occurs, taking with a small amount of warm food or dissolving granules in warm water can help.
• Time to effect: Urinary symptoms: 2 to 4 weeks. Neuropathy and nerve pain: 4 to 12 weeks of consistent use.
• How long to take it: Clinical trials have used GJG continuously for 12 to 24 weeks. For ongoing conditions like overactive bladder or diabetic neuropathy, long-term use under practitioner guidance is common in Japan. For chemotherapy support, it is typically used throughout the duration of treatment. Periodic reassessment every 3 months is recommended.