In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), wind, cold, and dampness are invasive to the body if one lives or works for a long time in such an environment. They obstruct the flow of Qi (vital energy) and blood, and slowly weaken the function of the liver and kidney, which are fundamental to the generation of Qi, Blood, and Yin and Yang. When this occurs, the joints may become stiff, discomfortable, and numb. The skin around the joint may become red. The range of mobility may become more restricted too. These joint discomforts typically become worse in a cold, wet, and wind weather.

Du Huo Ji Sheng Wan acts to expel wind and remove dampness, remove obstruction in Qi and blood circulation. At the same time, it addresses the fundamentals by nourishing the blood and invigorating Qi, according to China Pharmacopoeia.

Studies have been conducted to understand how Du Huo Ji Sheng Tang might work. Du Huo Ji Sheng Tang is shown to promote a healthy inflammation response and increase the blood circulation.

In clinical studies, Du Huo Ji Sheng Wan was shown to provide significant beneficial effects on joint health and back health.