1. health and fitness
2. disease

THE THREE TREASURES
by Giovanni Maciocia
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AROUSE POWER
Tu Si Zi Semen Cuscutae
Suo Yang Herba Cynomorii
Yin Yang Huo Herba Epimedii
Gou Qi Zi Fructus Lycii
Wu Wei Zi Fructus Schisandrae
Dan Shen Radix Salviae miltiorrhizae
Yuan Zhi Radix Polygalae
Lu Lu Tong Fructus Liquidambaris
Chuan Niu Xi Radix Cyathulae
Gui Zhi Ramulus Cinnamomi
Mu Dan Pi Cortex Moutan
Huang Bo Cortex Phellodendri
She Chuang Zi Fructus Cnidii
Zhi Gan Cao Radix Glycyrrhizae preparata
Pattern: Kidney-Yang deficiency, Heart-Qi deficiency, Damp-Heat in the Lower Burner.
Action: tonify Kidney-Yang, tonify Heart-Qi, stimulate the descending of Heart-Qi, drain DampHeat, calm the Mind.
Indications: impotence, premature ejaculation, decreased libido, decreased sexual function,
frigidity, insomnia, depression, backache, urinary difficulty, dizziness, tinnitus.
Tongue: pale.
Pulse: Deep, Weak.
Explanation
Tu Si Zi, Suo Yang and Yin Yang Huo tonify Kidney-Yang and strengthen the sexual function.
Gou Qi Zi nourishes Liver- and Kidney-YIn. Wu Wei Zi, Dan Shen and Yuan Zhi enter the Heart
and calm the Mind. Lu Lu Tong and Chuan Niu Xi invigorate Blood and remove obstructions
from the Luo channels: Chuan Niu Xi directs the formula to the Lower Burner. Gui Zhi and Mu
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Dan Pi enter the blood vessels: one hot, the other cold, they invigorate Blood. Huang Bo and She
Chuang Zi eliminate Dampness from the Lower Burner.
Mental-emotional pattern
Key word: Steadfastness
This remedy acts on the Zhi of the Kidneys and the Shen of the Heart. It is designed to promote
the communication and mutual nourishment between the Heart and the Kidneys. To understand
this remedy, we must look at a different 5-Element diagram that the circular one of the Sheng
cycle (Wood nourishes Fire, Fire nourishes Earth, etc.). We must visualize a cross-like 5Element diagram with the Water at the bottom (North), Fire at the top (South), Wood on the left
(East), Metal on the right (West) and the Earth in the centre.
In this view of the 5 Elements, Fire and Water (and therefore Heart and Kidneys)
communicate with each other and nourish each other: Fire descends to meet the Water and Water
rises to meet Fire (each contrary to their normal movements as Fire normally rises and Water
descends). The communication and mutual nourishment of Heart and Kidneys has many clinical
applications and an important one is in the field of mental-emotional life. The Heart houses Shen
and the Kidneys Zhi. Zhi may refer to distinct aspects: one is memory, the other is will-power.
The second one is clinically more important.
In the second and clinically more important sense, the Kidneys house Will-Power which
indicates drive, determination, single-mindedness in the pursuit of goals, enthusiasm and
motivation. Thus if the Kidneys are strong, the Will-Power is strong and the person will have
drive, enthusiasm, motivation and determination in the pursuit of goals.
If the Kidneys are depleted and the Will-Power weakened, the person will lack drive and
initiative, will be easily discouraged and swayed from his or her aims. A deficiency of the
Kidneys and Will-Power is an important aspect of chronic depression.
As we know, the Kidneys also control the sexual function: in men, they control sexual desire
and sexual function (i.e. erection and ejaculation). In women, they control sexual desire and the
capacity to reach an orgasm. However, the connection and mutual nourishment between Heart
and Kidneys also influences the sexual function. Thus, all the sexual functions just described in
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both men and women, depend not only on the Kidneys but also on the capacity of Heart-Qi to
descend to the Kidneys. For example, in men the descending of Heart-Qi is important to induce
erection and control ejaculation. Therefore, in many cases (and especially in young men) sexual
problems such as erectile dysfunction and premature ejaculation may be due to Heart-Qi not
descending to the Kidneys in the case of the former and descending too quickly in the case of the
latter.
This remedy stimulates the communication and mutual nourishment between Heart and
Kidneys both in the mental-emotional and sexual sphere. From the mental-emotional point of
view, when the Heart and Kidneys fail to communicate, the person may be depressed and lack
will-power, enthusiasm and drive, all functions of the Zhi of the Kidneys.
Caution and contraindications
There are no special contraindications for this remedy; one should remember that it contains two
quite hot Yang tonics (Suo Yang and Yin Yang Huo) and one should therefore be certain that the
patient is indeed suffering from Yang deficiency. Therefore, a pale tongue is an important
necessary sign for the prescription of this formula.
Remedy in a nutshell: tonify the Kidneys and the Heart and the Zhi and Shen, promote the
communication between Heart and Kidneys for sexual and mental-emotional life.
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BEND BAMBOO
Dang Gui Radix Angelicae sinensis
Chuan Xiong Rhizoma Chuanxiong
Shu Di Huang Radix Rehmanniae preparata
Sang Ji Sheng Herba Taxilli
Bai Shao Radix Paeoniae alba
Ju Hua Flos Chrysanthemi
Gou Teng Ramulus Uncariae cum Uncis
Man Jing Zi Fructus Viticis
Bai Ji Li Fructus Tribuli
Gou Qi Zi Fructus Lycii
Fu Ling Poria
Zhi Gan Cao Radix Glycyrrhizae preparata
Pattern: Liver-Blood deficiency, causing Liver-Yang rising.
Action: Nourish Liver-Blood, subdue Liver-Yang, stop headaches.
Indications: chronic headaches which occur sometimes along the Gall-Bladder channel and
temples with a throbbing pain, and sometimes on the vertex with a dull ache, accompanied by
nausea, dizziness and possibly vomiting. Other symptoms may include poor memory, tingling of
limbs, blurred vision, dry hair and skin, scanty periods.
Tongue: Pale and Thin.
Pulse: Choppy.
Explanation
Bend Bamboo is a new prescription formulated to nourish Liver-Blood and subdue Liver-Yang.
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This combination of patterns is a common cause of chronic headaches, especially in women and
existing Chinese patent remedies do not address this clinical situation. The nucleus of the
formula is Si Wu Tang Four Substances Decoction which nourishes Blood.
Liver-Yang rising may originate from different patterns: Kidney-Yin deficiency, Kidney- and
Liver-Yin deficiency, Liver-Blood deficiency and simultaneous Kidney-Yin and Kidney-Yang
deficiency. Bend Bamboo is mostly for Liver-Yang rising from Liver-Blood deficiency but it
may also be used if there is Liver-Yin deficiency.
Liver-Yang rising is not a “Full” pattern in the same way as, for example, Liver-Fire,
Dampness or Phlegm. Liver-Yang rising, rather than being a “pathogenic factor” is an imbalance
between Yin and Yang: the Yin is deficient below (i.e. Liver-Blood, Liver-Yin or Kidney-Yin
deficiency) and the Yang rises to the head.
Therefore, there are two aetiological factors to this clinical situation. On the one hand, there
are factors that cause a deficiency of Liver-Blood, Liver-Yin and Kidney-Yin. These are
emotional factors such as sadness and fear and life factors such as overwork, poor diet of
excessive blood loss during childbirth. On the other hand, there are factors that cause Liver-Yang
to rise: these are definitely emotional factors such as anger, frustration, resentment and worry.
Please note that the rising of Liver-Yang is not always due to anger: worry may also make LiverYang rise. With regard to worry, chapter 23 of the “Simple Questions” says: “When Qi rushes
upwards it affects the Liver causing worry.”1 Zhang Jie Bin summarizes the effect of each
emotion on groups of organs in chapter 216 of his book “The Classic of Categories” (Lei Jing,
1624) in a long statement from which I will quote only the part relevant to worry: “Worry makes
Qi rise and can affect the Liver; the Liver becomes overactive.”2
Note that Liver-Yang rising is very different from Liver-Fire. Liver-Fire is a “real”
pathogenic factor while Liver-Yang is purely an imbalance of Qi with Yang rising and Yin being
deficient below. With Liver-Fire, there are symptoms of “solid” Fire such as intense thirst, dark
urine, dry stools and bitter taste: there are no such symptoms with Liver-Yang rising.
It follows that the treatment of these two patterns is very different: with Liver-Fire, we need
to drain it by using bitter-cold herbs. With Liver-Yang rising we need to “subdue” it with herbs
that subdue Qi (often minerals). Also, in headaches from Liver-Yang rising, we also need to use
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herbs that extinguish Liver-Wind. At the same time, of course, we need to nourish Yin (which
may be Liver-Blood, Liver-Yin or Kidney-Yin).
Mental-emotional pattern
Key words: Interior Peace
Liver-Blood is weakened by prolonged sadness. Although we do not associate usually
sadness with the Liver, in women, sadness can indeed weaken Liver-Blood. For example, the
“Spiritual Axis” in chapter 8 mentions injury of the Liver from sadness rather than anger: “When
sadness affects the Liver it injures the Ethereal Soul [Hun]; this causes mental confusion … the
Yin is damaged, the tendons contract and there is hypochondrial discomfort”.3 Of course, it is
not unusual for patients to suffer from complex emotional patterns so that sadness injuring LiverBlood may be associated with frustration and resentment which cause Liver-Yang to rise. In
some cases, Liver-Blood deficiency may be due to fear and the rising of Liver-Yang to worry.
Caution and contraindications
There are no specific contraindications for this remedy.
Remedy in a nutshell: nourish Liver-Blood and subdue Liver-Yang for chronic headaches.
BENEFIT THE SINEWS
Tao Ren Semen Persicae
Hong Hua Flos Carthami
Chuan Xiong Rhizoma Chuanxiong
Dang Gui Radix Angelicae sinensis
Ru Xiang Gummi Olibanum
Ban Xia Rhizoma Pinelliae preparatum
Chen Pi Pericarpium Citri reticulatae
Gua Lou Fructus Trichosanthis
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Xi Xian Cao Herba Siegesbeckiae
Hai Feng Teng Caulis Piperis kadsurae
Wei Ling Xian Radix Clematidis
Du Zhong Cortex Eucommiae
Gou Qi Zi Fructus Lycii
Cang Zhu Rhizoma Atractylodis
Huang Bo Cortex Phellodendri
Shen Qu Massa medicata fermentata
Pattern: Blood stasis, Phlegm and Dampness in the joints, Kidney deficiency.
Action: Invigorate Blood, resolve Phlegm, expel Wind-Dampness, dry Dampness.
Indications: Chronic Bi Syndrome, chronic joint pain with swelling of the joints and bone
deformities, rigidity of joints, backache, dizziness, tinnitus, tiredness, lack of will-power, mental
confusion, anxiety, mental restlessness.
Tongue: pale, red or purple, swollen, sticky coating.
Pulse: Choppy, Wiry or Firm (from Blood stasis) or Slippery (from Phlegm).
Explanation
Tao Ren, Hong Hua, Chuan Xiong, Dang Gui and Ru Xiang invigorate Blood; in particular, Ru
Xiang invigorates Blood in the channels and frees the joints.
Ban Xia, Chen Pi and Gua Lou resolve Phlegm. Xi Xian Cao, Hai Feng Teng and Wei Ling
Xian expel Wind-Dampness from the channels and joints. Du Zhong and Gou Qi Zi nourish the
Kidneys and Liver. Cang Zhu and Huang Bo resolve Dampness. Shen Qu helps to digest the
herbs.
Mental-emotional pattern
Key words: Breaking Through
Both Phlegm and Blood stasis are obstructive: not only do they obstruct the channels and
joints but they also affect the Mind and obstruct the Mind’s orifices. Phlegm and Blood stasis
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both results from long-standing imbalances with emotional problems at their root.
Blood stasis often derives from Qi stagnation which itself derives from emotional problems.
Most emotions may lead to Qi stagnation: sadness, worry, anger, “joy” (which means excessive
stimulation), fear, grief, shame and guilt. In the case of chronic Bi, I find the stagnation
underlying this disease often due to worry, resentment or guilt.
The association of Blood stasis with Phlegm will obstruct the Mind’s orifices even more and
a person suffering from such a pathology will tend to be frustrated, resentful and often tormented
by guilt: they will take all the burdens of the world onto themselves.
Caution and contraindications
Although Benefit the Sinews contains some Kidney tonics, its main impact is on the
Manifestations (Biao): it resolves Phlegm and invigorates Blood in chronic Bi Syndrome when
there is Phlegm and Blood stasis in the joints. For this reason, the remedy should not be
prescribed for longer than about 4-6 months, after which time it should be discontinued for one
month.
Acupuncturists can direct their attention to treating the Root (Ben) by tonifying the Kidneys
and Liver.
Benefit the Sinews is contraindicated in pregnancy.
Remedy in a nutshell: chronic Bi syndrome with Phlegm, Dampness and Blood stasis in the
joints and an underlying Kidney deficiency. Swollen joints, rigidity, severe pain, rheumatoid
arthritis.
BREAK INTO A SMILE
Chai Hu Radix Bupleuri
Bai Shao Radix Paeoniae alba
Zhi Gan Cao Radix Glycyrrhizae preparata
Zhi Ke Fructus Aurantii
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Chen Pi Pericarpium Citri reticulatae
Xiang Fu Rhizoma Cyperi
Chuan Xiong Rhizoma Chuanxiong
Dan Shen Radix Salviae miltiorrhizae
Tai Zi Shen Radix Pseudostellariae
Yan Hu Suo Rhizoma Corydalis
Suan Zao Ren Semen Ziziphi spinosae
Fu Ling Poria
Pattern: Liver-Qi stagnation, Spleen- and Stomach-Qi deficiency.
Action: regulates Qi, eliminates stagnation, harmonizes the Liver, stops pain.
Indications: epigastric or abdominal distension, abdominal pain against a background of
emotional problems, flatulence, belching, irritability, depression.
Tongue: normal or slightly red on the sides.
Pulse: Wiry.
Explanation
Break into Smile is a variation of Chai Hu Shu Gan Tang Bupleurum Soothing the Liver
Decoction which moves Liver-Qi and eliminates stagnation. The classic prescription was
modified by adding Dan Shen Radix Salviae militiorrhizae to invigorate Blood and calm the
Mind. Tai Zi Shen Radix Pseudostellariae was added to nourish Stomach-Yin as this often
accompanies Liver-Qi stagnation or to protect Stomach-Yin from the hot and pungent herbs in
the formula. Suan Zao Ren Semen Ziziphi spinosae was added to anchor the Hun. Yan Hu Suo
Rhizoma Corydalis was added to enhance the analgesic effect of the formula and Fu Ling Poria
to resolve Dampness. .
The formula treats the symptom of “distension” (zhang) that is a typical symptom of Qi
stagnation. Most English-speaking patients would use the word “bloating”.
It is useful to compare and contrast this formula with Smooth Passage and Soothe the Centre.
All three treat Liver-Qi stagnation, but there are differences:
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- Break into a Smile is for Liver-Qi stagnation as a Full condition, while Smooth Passage is for
stagnant Liver-Qi invading the Intestines and Spleen in the Lower Burner; Soothe the Centre is
for stagnant Liver-Qi invading the Stomach in the Middle Burner.
- The pulse indicating the use of Break into a Smile is Wiry on all positions, while that indicating
the use of Smooth Passage is often Wiry on one side only or Wiry on both third positions. The
pulse indicating the use of Soothe the Centre is Wiry on the left and Weak on the right or Wiry
on both second positions.
- Break into a Smile is specific for abdominal pain while Smooth Passage and Soothe the Centre
can be used for a feeling of distension of fullness.
Table 1 compares and contrasts Break into a Smile, Soothe the Centre and Smooth Passage.
Table 1. Comparison of Break into a Smile, Soothe the Centre and Smooth Passage.
Pattern
Break into a Smile
Soothe the Centre
Smooth Passage
Liver-Qi stagnation
Liver-Qi stagnation,
Liver-Qi stagnation,
Stomach deficiency
Spleen deficiency,
Dampness
Burner
Lower
Middle
Lower
Pulse
Wiry
Wiry on guan
Wiry on chi position
position
Symptoms
Lower abdominal
Upper abdominal
Lower abdominal
distension and pain
distension and pain
distension and pain,
alternation of loose
stools and
constipation
Mental-emotional pattern
Key word: Acceptance.
The pattern derives from anger especially if it is repressed and not manifested. “Anger”is
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used here in a broad sense including frustration, resentment, repressed anger and hatred. From an
emotional perspective, the most characteristic and common signs are depression, alternation of
moods, irritability, “snapping” easily and frustration. Qi stagnation hinders the movement of the
Hun and leads to depression, disorientation and a feeling of lack of direction in one’s life.
Just as the formula treats physical pain, it also treats emotional pain and anguish deriving
from frustration and resentment.
Caution and contraindications
Herbs that move Qi are pungent and mostly hot and, in the long run, they may damage Yin. For
this reason, the formula contains Tai Zi Shen to protect Stomach-Yin. However, the damage to
Yin is not likely to occur in the short term. If the patient needs to take this remedy for the long
term, it is advisable to stop it for a month every 4-5 months.
Classical antecedent: Chai Hu Shu Gan Tang Bupleurum Soothing the Liver Decoction.
Remedy in a nutshell: Liver-Qi stagnation from emotional problems, abdominal pain.
BREAKING CLOUDS
Ren Shen Radix Ginseng
Huang Qi Radix Astragali
Bai Zhu Rhizoma Atractylodis macrocephalae
Dang Gui Radix Angelicae sinensis
Sheng Ma Rhizoma Cimicifugae
Chai Hu Radix Bupleuri
Chen Pi Pericarpium Citri reticulatae
Zhi Gan Cao Radix Glycyrrhizae preparata
Yuan Zhi Radix Polygalae
Shi Chang Pu Rhizoma Acori tatarinowii
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Bai He Bulbus Lilii
Qing Pi Pericarpium Citri reticulatae viride
Du Zhong Cortex Eucommiae
Wu Wei Zi Fructus Schisandrae
Pattern: Qi deficiency, sinking of Qi, Qi stagnation.
Action: Tonify and lift Qi, move Qi, lift the Spirit, open the Mind's orifices.
Indications: Mental depression, tiredness, sadness, despondency, lack of will
power, negativity, feelings of guilt, feelings of worthlessness, poor appetite,
craving for sweets, loose stools, slight breathlessness, weak voice, pale
complexion.
Tongue: Pale.
Pulse: Choppy, without "wave", short.
Explanation
There are three possible disharmonies of the Mind and Spirit: the Mind can be Weakened
which is characterized by mental depression; Unsettled which is characterized by anxiety;
and Obstructed which is characterized by some loss of insight. In mental depression, the
Mind is Weakened and the Spirit is depressed.
Depression can be caused by many patterns and the present formula addresses
depression primarily from Qi deficiency and secondarily from Qi stagnation. "Obstruction"
of the Mind occurs when severely stagnant Qi, stagnant Blood or Phlegm cloud the Mind's
orifices: this results, in extreme cases, in psychosis. For example, stagnant Blood after
childbirth may cause postpartum psychosis (addressed by the ancient formula Tao He
Cheng Qi Tang); or Phlegm-Heat may cause bipolar disorder.
However, obstruction of the Mind's orifices may also occur in milder degrees resulting
in phobias, obsessive behaviour, obsessive thinking, etc. Clouding of the Mind's orifices
may occur as a secondary problem in depression resulting often in obsessive thinking and
behaviour. This formula is primarily for Mind Weakened, i.e. depression occurring against
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a background of Qi deficiency. However, it is also for Mind Obstructed and, for this
reason, it contains Yuan Zhi and Shi Chang Pu to open the Mind's orifices.
The formula is a variation of Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang Tonifying the Centre and
Benefiting Qi Decoction which tonifies and lifts Qi: the mental correspondent of this
action on Qi is a lifting of mood.
Ren Shen, Huang Qi and Bai Zhu tonify and lift Qi. In particular, Huang Qi lifts Qi in
combination with Sheng Ma and Chai Hu. Dang Gui Shen nourishes Blood. Chen Pi
prevents a possible "sticky" action of the Qi tonics. Yuan Zhi and Shi Chang Pu open the
Mind's orifices. Bai He and Wu Wei Zi nourish the Lungs to relieve sadness. Qing Pi
moves Qi; Du Zhong tonifies Kidney-Yang and strengthens the will-power, which is an
important action in relieving depression.
Mental-emotional pattern
Key word: Rebirth.
This person will be intensely depressed and suffer from lack of self-esteem and selfconfidence. He or she will find pleasure in nothing and will suffer from intense feelings
of guilt. Although they may bravely try to soldier on, they are in a constantly depressed
mood and the strain of carrying on may sometimes feel too much for them. They will
have a feeling of unreality and will find it difficult to cope socially; they have a tendency
to bouts of crying and will often describe their feeling as "if being in a dark tunnel
without exit".
Caution and contraindications
This remedy is contraindicated in asthma (because it lifts Qi).
Classical antecedent: Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang (Tonifying the Centre and Benefiting Qi
Decoction).
Remedy in a nutshell: depression from Qi deficiency.
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BRIGHT SPIRIT
Zhu Ru Caulis Bambusae in Taeniam
Ban Xia Rhizoma Pinelliae preparatum
Chen Pi Pericarpium Citri reticulatae
Fu Shen Sclerotium Poriae pararadicis
Qing Pi Pericarpium Citri reticulatae viride
Shi Chang Pu Rhizoma Acori tatarinowii
Yuan Zhi Radix Polygalae
Xiang Fu Rhizoma Cyperi
He Huan Pi Cortex Albiziae
Mei Gui Hua Flos Rosae rugosae
Yu Jin Radix Curcumae
Pattern: Liver- and Heart-Qi stagnation, Phlegm obstructing the Mind’s orifices.
Action: moves Liver- and Heart-Qi, calms the Mind, resolves Phlegm, opens the
Mind’s orifices, stimulates the movement of the Hun.
Indications: depression, labile mood, indecision, a feeling of lack of direction in
life, confusion about one’s aims, bad digestion with a feeling of distension and
fullness, sighing, palpitations, a feeling of oppression of the chest, a feeling of
obstruction of the throat, slight breathlessness, poor appetite, weak and cold limbs,
pale complexion.
Tongue: slightly Pale-Purple in the chest area, swollen, sticky coating.
Pulse: Wiry and slightly Overflowing on the left-cun position or Wiry and
Slippery.
Explanation
Zhu Ru, Ban Xia, Chen Pi and Fu Shen resolve Phlegm. Qing Pi, Xiang Fu and Yu
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Jin move Qi; Yu Jin also invigorates Blood and opens the Mind’s orifices. Shi
Chang Pu and Yuan Zhi open the Mind’s orifices. He Huan Pi and Mei Gui Hua
move Liver-Qi and lift depression.
Mental-emotional pattern
Key word: Bright Soul
Qi stagnation impairs the movement of the Hun. The movement of the Hun confers
“movement” to the Shen of the Heart: this “movement” means inspiration, a sense
of direction in life, enthusiasm, creativity. In the absence of these, the person will
feel depressed. It is therefore important in such cases to stimulate the movement of
the Hun.
Phlegm tends to obstruct the Mind’s orifices: in very severe cases, this results
in loss of insight and mental illness such as bipolar disease and schizophrenia.
However, obstruction of the Mind can occur in many degrees of severity and, in
mild cases, it causes some mental confusion. When combined with the depression
deriving from Qi stagnation, the person is depressed and confused. Obstruction of
the Mind may also cause obsessive behaviour. As the Liver is affected, there is
also irritability.
This combination of patterns is most likely to derive from anger, repressed
anger, frustration, resentment, worry and guilt.
Please note that Qi stagnation affects not only the Liver: indeed, it may affect
any organ. In the context of mental-emotional problems, Qi stagnation can and does
affect the Heart leading to depression and irritability.
Caution and contraindications
None.
Remedy in a nutshell: Qi stagnation and Phlegm causing depression.
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BRIGHTEN THE EYES
Dang Gui Radix Angelicae sinensis
Shu Di Huang Radix Rehmanniae preparata
Chuan Xiong Rhizoma Chuanxiong
Bai Shao Radix Paeoniae alba
Gou Qi Zi Fructus Lycii
Tu Si Zi Semen Cuscutae
Nu Zhen Zi Fructus Ligustri lucidi
Ju Hua Flos Chrysanthemi
Man Jing Zi Fructus Viticis
Mi Meng Hua Flos Buddleiae
Bai Ji Li Fructus Tribuli
He Shou Wu Radix Polygoni multiflori preparata
Hong Zao Fructus Jujubae
Pattern: Deficient Liver-Blood and Kidneys not nourishing the eyes.
Action: Nourish Liver-Blood and the Kidneys, brighten the eyes.
Indications: dull headaches from Liver-Blood deficiency, especially if located around the eyes
and eyebrows, blurred vision, floaters, gritty eyes, tired eyes, dry eyes, dizziness, tiredness, dullpale complexion, scanty periods, depression, insomnia (difficulty in falling asleep), slight
anxiety, tingling in the limbs, poor memory, lower backache, slight tinnitus, dry hair.
Tongue: Pale, especially on the sides, thin.
Pulse: Choppy or Fine.
Explanation
This is a new formula based on the prescription Si Wu Tang ("Four Substances Decoction" )
with the addition of herbs to nourish the Kidneys and brighten the eyes, such as Tu Si Zi, Gou Qi
Zi and Nu Zhen Zi. This formula can be used where there is deficiency either of Kidney-Yang or
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of Kidney-Yin, which may be combined with Blood deficiency as explained below. Shou Wu
was added as it nourishes Blood and the eyes. Ju Hua, Man Jing Zi and Bai Ji Li were added to
brighten the eyes. Chuan Xiong was added to invigorate Blood; this is necessary when several
Blood-nourishing herbs are used.
The formula is new in so far as it combines nourishing Blood with strengthening the Kidneys,
although it is primarily for the former. Especially in women, there is very often an overlap
between Blood deficiency and Kidney deficiency. This is because the Uterus (as an extra Fu
organ) stores Blood and is functionally related to the Kidneys (through the Bao Mai, the channel
that links the Uterus with the Kidneys, and through the extraordinary vessels Ren Mai and Chong
Mai).
The formula is for a wide range of eye problems stemming from a deficiency of Liver-Blood
and Kidneys. This is the most common pattern at the root of chronic eye problems in practice.
With the appropriate pattern presentation, it may also be used for other symptoms centered
around the head, especially dizziness or headaches.
Although Brighten the Eyes was formulated for eye problems deriving from Liver-Blood
deficiency, it can also be used as a general Blood tonic as it is based on the formula Si Wu Tang
Four Substances Decoction with addition of other Blood tonics. As a Blood tonic, it is
particularly suitable for women as it also nourishes the Kidneys.
Mental-emotional pattern
Key words: Inner Vision.
The person may feel easily depressed and lack a sense of direction in life. He or she will be
undecided about goals and unable to plan life. These patterns are due to the deficient Liver-Blood
not rooting the Ethereal Soul (Hun). Just as this formula helps eyesight by nourishing Liver-Yin,
on a mental-spiritual level it roots the Ethereal Soul which gives the individual spiritual "vision".
Caution and contraindications
Many of the Blood-nourishing herbs may tend to weaken the Spleen and increase Dampness if
used for several months without interruption. The formula should therefore either be used
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intermittently or combined with an acupuncture treatment aimed at tonifying the Spleen and
resolving Dampness.
Classical antecedent: Si Wu Tang Four Substances Decoction.
Remedy in a nutshell: eye problems from Liver-Blood deficiency.
Timing of administration: Take after meals if used for eye problems.
BROCADE SINEWS
Dang Shen Radix Codonopsis
Dang Gui Radix Angelicae sinensis
Chuan Xiong Rhizoma Chuanxiong
Bai Shao Radix Paeoniae alba
Shu Di Huang Radix Rehmanniae preparata
Gou Qi Zi Fructus Lycii
Sang Ji Sheng Herba Taxilli
Sang Zhi Ramulus Mori
Wei Ling Xian Radix Clematidis
Mu Gua Fructus Chaenomelis
Wu Jia Pi Cortex Acanthopanacis
Xi Xian Cao Herba Siegesbeckiae
Ji Xue Teng Caulis Spatholobi
Fu Ling Poria
Yi Yi Ren Semen Coicis
Cang Zhu Rhizoma Atractylodis
Zhi Gan Cao Radix Glycyrrhizae preparata
Pattern: Chronic Wind-Damp Painful Obstruction (Bi) Syndrome with Liver-Blood and/or
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Liver-Yin deficiency.
Action: Nourish Liver-Blood and Liver-Yin, benefit sinews, expel Wind-Dampness from the
joints.
Indications: chronic soreness and slight swelling of the joints, dizziness, numbness or tingling of
limbs, poor memory, insomnia, dry skin and hair, dry eyes, blurred vision.
Tongue: Pale and Thin if there is Liver-Blood deficiency or red and Thin without coating if there
is Liver-Yin deficiency.
Pulse: Choppy or Fine, possibly only on the left side. In the case of Liver-Yin deficiency it could
be empty at the deep level on the left side.
Explanation
Brocade Sinews is a new formula aimed at expelling Wind-Dampness from the joints and
nourishing Liver-Blood. This corresponds to a very frequent finding in practice that chronic
rheumatic pains are caused by Wind and Dampness in the joints and that they occur against a
background of Liver-Blood or Liver-Yin deficiency. The problem is especially common in
women.
The new formulation was considered necessary as most of the existing patent remedies
for chronic rheumatic pains are very warming. As very many patients (especially women)
with chronic rheumatic problems suffer from deficient Liver-Blood or Liver-Yin failing to
nourish the sinews, warm or hot herbs are contraindicated.
Dang Gui, Chuan Xiong, Bai Shao, Shu Di Huang and Gou Qi Zi nourish and
invigorate Blood. Sang Ji Sheng nourishes Blood and expels Wind-Dampness from the
joints. Sang Zhi, Hai Tong Pi, Mu Gua and Xi Xian Cao expel Wind-Dampness from the
joints. Wu Jia Pi and Ji Xue Teng expel Wind-Dampness from the joints and benefit the
sinews and bones. Fu Ling, Yi Yi Ren and Cang Zhu resolve Dampness.
Mental-emotional pattern
Key words: Single-Minded Aim.
The patient will lack a feeling of direction in life and feel depressed. There will be
21
mental confusion and fear of the unknown. He or she will be anxious and find it difficult
to sleep at night, rest being disturbed by dreams. The condition is often caused by
prolonged sadness (which can affect the Liver) combined with guilt.
Caution and contraindications
The formula is suitable for long-term use as the cloying blood tonics within it are
counterbalanced by the herbs which resolve Dampness.
Classical antecedent: Si Wu Tang Four Substances Decoction.
Remedy in a nutshell: Bi Syndrome from Liver-Blood deficiency.
Timing of administration: Take one dose half an hour before breakfast.
BUDDHA’S HAND
Mu Xiang Radix Aucklandiae
Bai Dou Kou Fructus Amomi rotundus
Cang Zhu Rhizoma Atractylodis
Qing Pi Pericarpium Citri reticulatae viride
Chen Pi Pericarpium Citri reticulatae
Fu Ling Poria
Hou Po Cortex Magnoliae officinalis
Fo Shou Fructus Citri sarcodactylis
Ban Xia Rhizoma Pinelliae preparatum
Zhi Shi Fructus Aurantii immaturus
Lai Fu Zi Semen Raphani
Shan Zha Fructus Crataegi
Shen Qu Massa medicata fermentata
22
Gu Ya Fructus Setariae germinatus
Gan Cao Radix Glycyrrhizae
Pattern: Qi stagnation in the Middle Burner, rebellious Stomach-Qi, Dampness
in the Middle Burner.
Action: moves Qi in the Middle Burner, subdues rebellious Stomach-Qi, resolves
Dampness.
Indications: bad digestion, distension and/or epigastric pain, acid reflux, nausea,
vomiting, belching, feeling of fullness in the epigastrium, sticky taste.
Tongue: slightly red on the sides in the central section (Spleen area), sticky coating.
Pulse: Wiry on the right-guan position.
Explanation
Mu Xiang, Qing Pi, Fo Shou and Zhi Shi move Qi; Zhi Shi has a downward
movement and will contribute to subduing Qi. Bai Dou Kou, Hou Po, Cang Zhu,
Chen Pi, Fu Ling, Ban Xia resolve Dampness. Some of these herbs also move Qi
(Hou Po, Bai Dou Kou). Lai Fu Zi, Shan Zha, Shen Qu and Gu Ya are digestive
herbs that relieve retention of Food.
Mental-emotional pattern
Key words: Inner Peace.
This patient suffers from Qi stagnation in the Middle Burner but also with
rebellious Qi of the Stomach. This sets it apart from other remedies that eliminate
Qi stagnation (e.g. Soothe the Centre, Break into a Smile, Smooth Passage, etc.).
Thus, there are three patterns: Qi stagnation, Qi rebellious and Dampness, all in
the Middle Burner. The aetiology of this clinical picture is emotional stress
causing Qi stagnation and Qi rebellious and irregular diet leading to Dampness.
How do emotional problems leading to rebellious Qi differ from those leading
to Qi stagnation? Qi stagnation may be cause by virtually any emotion, e.g. anger,
23
repressed anger, worry, frustration, resentment, sadness, fear, “joy” and guilt.
That is because most emotions lead either to Qi stagnation or Qi deficiency:
however, also those that lead to Qi stagnation also involve some Qi stagnation
deriving from deficient Qi not moving Qi.
By contrast, rebellious Qi must be caused by emotions that make Qi rise and
that would therefore exclude emotions such as sadness, fear and guilt. In my
experience, rebellious Qi is caused by one of three emotions: anger, worry and
“joy”. That anger makes Qi rise is well known and we do not need to repeat here.
Less well known is that worry also may make Qi rise (apart from making it
stagnate). Indeed, Zhang Jing Yue says that worry can make Liver-Qi rise. As for
“joy”. I am using quotation marks because I feel that “joy” is not a good
translation of the emotion that ancient Chinese doctors referred to. In feel that the
best translation of xi is “excessive stimulation”. When interpreted in this sense,
we can see how it is a major emotional cause of disease in the Western world
where everyone is subject to excessive stimulation by media, advertising, alcohol
and drugs. In the case of children, they are subject to even more stimulation such
as TV, computer games, advertising.
Thus, this person will be intensely worried and perhaps suffering from anger
about some life situation. This person will also be impatient; he or she will tend
to worry about their loved ones and will try be helpful but sometimes in a
controlling way.
Caution and contraindications
The formula contains pungent herbs which, in the long run, may injure Yin. If the
patient needs to take the remedy in the long run, it is advisable to stop it for a
month every 4-5 months.
Contraindicated during pregnancy.
Classic antecedent: Mu Xiang Shun Qi Wan (Aucklandia Pill to Subdue Qi).
24
Remedy in a nutshell: digestive problems from rebellious Stomach-Qi.
CALM THE SHEN
Ren Shen Radix Ginseng
Huang Qi Radix Astragali
Bai Zhu Rhizoma Atractylodis macrocephalae
Dang Gui Radix Angelicae sinensis
Fu Shen Sclerotium Poriae pararadicis
Suan Zao Ren Semen Ziziphi spinosae
Long Yan Rou Arillus Longan
Yuan Zhi Radix Polygalae
Mu Xiang Radix Aucklandiae
Zhi Gan Cao Radix Glycyrrhizae preparata
Hong Zao Fructus Jujubae
Bai Zi Ren Semen Platycladi
He Huan Pi Cortex Albiziae
Shi Chang Pu Rhizoma Acori tatarinowii
Bai He Bulbus Lilii
Pattern: Spleen-Qi and Spleen-Blood deficiency, Heart-Qi and Heart-Blood
deficiency.
Action: Tonify Spleen-Qi and Spleen-Blood, tonify Heart-Qi and Heart-Blood,
calm the Mind, open the Mind's orifices, stimulate the Spleen's holding of Blood.
Indications: Palpitations, insomnia, anxiety, poor memory, depression, dull-pale
face which may also have a slight malar flush, a slight feeling of heat in the
evening, poor appetite, loose stools, tiredness, weariness, constipation,
despondency, weak limbs, scanty periods or very heavy periods which come early
or trickle on for a long time with pale or fresh-red blood, blood in the stools or
25
urine, petechiae.
Tongue: Pale, thin or swollen, depending on whether Blood or Qi deficiency
predominates.
Pulse: Weak, Choppy.
Explanation
This is a very important formula to tonify Spleen and Heart when they are affected by
emotional problems. The formula tonifies both Qi and Blood of the Spleen and Heart and
its clinical manifestations reflect both Qi and Blood deficiency. Poor appetite, loose
stools, tiredness, weak limbs and a swollen tongue reflect Spleen-Qi deficiency, with
deficient Spleen-Qi failing to transform and transport food essences and to nourish the
muscles.
Palpitations, insomnia, anxiety, poor memory, depression, dull-pale face and a thin
tongue reflect Heart-Blood deficiency. In long-standing cases of Blood deficiency, there
may also be some Empty-Heat arising from it, causing a slight malar flush and a slight
feeling of heat in the evening.
Since there is both Qi and Blood deficiency, the periods may be scanty if Blood
deficiency predominates or very heavy if Qi deficiency predominates, the heavy bleeding
being due to deficient Spleen-Qi failing to hold Blood. For the same reason there may be
bleeding from the bladder, intestines or under the skin (petechiae). Constipation may
arise from Blood deficiency.
Ren Shen, Bai Zhu and Huang Qi tonify Spleen- and Heart-Qi. Dang Gui nourishes
Heart-Blood. Fu Shen, Suan Zao Ren, Long Yan Rou and Yuan Zhi nourish the Heart and
calm the Mind. Mu Xiang moves Qi to counteract the cloying nature of Blood tonics. Zhi
Gan Cao harmonizes. Hei Zao nourishes Blood and harmonizes. I added Bai Zi Ren to
nourish the Heart and Blood and calm the Mind. It also stimulates the bowel movement
and is good for constipation from Blood deficiency. He Huan Pi and Shi Chang Pu were
added to calm the Mind and open the Mind's orifices. He Huan Pi is also effective to
treat depression. Bai He was added to soothe the Lungs: this herb is particularly effective
26
for emotional problems deriving from sadness and grief.
Mental-emotional pattern
Key word: Hope.
This pattern is typically caused by sadness, grief, worry or shock over a long period of
time. These emotions deplete Qi of the Spleen, Heart and Lungs and, after some time,
this gives rise to Blood deficiency. This patient will be sad, depressed and weary: he or
she is prone to bouts of crying. Since this crying derives from a deficiency rather than
from repressed, stagnant Qi, it does not relieve the mental state.
Caution and contraindications
This is a tonic formula that can be taken for long periods of time. It does not have any
specific contraindications as it is balanced in its tonification of both Qi and Blood.
Classical antecedent: Gui Pi Tang (Tonifying the Spleen Decoction)
The remedy in a nutshell: depression and sadness from Qi and Blood deficiency.
CENTRAL MANSION
Ren Shen Radix Ginseng
Bai Zhu Rhizoma Atractylodis macrocephalae
Fu Ling Poria
Zhi Gan Cao Radix Glycyrrhizae preparata
Bian Dou Semen Lablab album
Shan Yao Rhizoma Dioscoreae
Lian Zi Semen Nelumbinis
Sha Ren Fructus Amomi
Yi Yi Ren Semen Coicis
27
Jie Geng Radix Platycodi
Tai Zi Shen Radix Pseudostellariae
Yu Zhu Rhizoma Polygonati odorati
Pattern: Spleen- and Stomach-Qi deficiency, Stomach and Spleen-Yin deficiency,
Dampness in the Middle Burner, Lung-Qi deficiency.
Action: Tonify Stomach- and Spleen-Qi, nourish Stomach and Spleen-Yin, resolve
Dampness, stop diarrhoea, tonify Lung-Qi.
Indications: Loose stools, diarrhoea, poor appetite, poor digestion, a slight feeling
of fullness and heaviness of the epigastrium, nausea, weakness of the limbs,
epigastric pain, tiredness, late-onset diabetes, chronic cough with white-watery
sputum, dull-pale complexion, thin body.
Tongue: Pale, slightly swollen, a sticky but rather thin coating, slightly rootless
coating, coating too thin in the centre, central Stomach crack, scattered Stomach
cracks, transversal Spleen cracks.
Pulse: Weak in general, slightly slippery; it may be Floating-Empty on the right
middle position.
Explanation
This formula, a very important Stomach and Spleen tonic, is a variation of Shen Ling
Bai Zhu San Ginseng-PoriaAtractylodes Powder. Its action has some similarities to that
of Liu Jun Zi Tang Six Gentlemen Decoction (Prosperous Earth) but it is more complex
and wide-ranging. First of all, it tonifies Stomach and Spleen-Qi and resolves Dampness
and, as such, it has a very wide application. However, it also tonifies Stomach- and
Spleen-Yin and it is therefore suitable to treat the beginning stages of Stomach- and
Spleen-Yin deficiency: the main symptoms of these would be a slight thirst but without
desire to drink, a dry mouth, dry stools, dry lips, poor appetite and a slight epigastric
pain.
This formula incorporates the formula Si Jun Zi Tang Four Gentlemen Decoction
28
(Ren Shen, Bai Zhu, Fu Ling and Zhi Gan Cao which tonifies Stomach- and Spleen-Qi.
Sha Ren and Yi Yi Ren resolve Dampness; the former fragrantly resolves Dampness
through sweating, and the latter drains Dampness through urination. In addition, Sha Ren
also harmonizes the ascending and descending of Qi in the Middle Burner and helps to
stop nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea. Shan Yao tonifies both Stomach-Qi and StomachYin and treats diabetes. Lian Zi tonifies the Stomach and Spleen and stops diarrhoea.
Bian Dou tonifies Spleen-Qi and Spleen-Yin and also stops diarrhoea. Jie Geng directs
the formula to the Upper Burner and the Lungs which makes the formula suitable to
tonify Lung-Qi and resolve Phlegm. The function of Jie Geng in this formula is often
compared to that of an oar, taking the boat, i.e. the formula, to the Upper Burner.
Tai Zi Shen was added to strengthen the Stomach-Yin nourishing effect. Yu Zhu was
added to nourish Stomach-Yin and clear any Empty-Heat that there might be. Xi Yang
Shen was added because it nourishes both Qi and Yin of the Stomach, Spleen and Lungs.
It is useful to compare and contrast this formula with Soothe the Centre (a variation
of Xiang Sha Liu Jun Zi Tang Aucklandia-Amomum Six Gentlemen Decoction) and Jade
Spring (a variation of Sha Shen Mai Dong Tang Glehniae-Ophiopogon Decoction) and
Table 1 highlights the main differences. Soothe the Centre and Central Mansion both
tonify Stomach- and Spleen-Qi and resolve Dampness; the main difference is that
Central Mansion also nourishes Stomach- and Spleen-Yin. However, the latter is
indicated only for slight conditions of Stomach and Spleen-Yin deficiency and in
particular when they are associated with Qi deficiency: if the deficiency of Stomachand Spleen-Yin is pronounced, Jade Spring is more appropriate.
A further difference between Soothe the Centre and Central Mansion is that the
former also treats stagnation of Qi in the Middle Burner, which Central Mansion does
not. Another crucial difference is that Central Mansion is suitable for persons who are
constitutionally more deficient in the Middle Burner; in other words, although both
remedies address Stomach and Spleen deficiency deriving from dietary irregularity, a
person with a relatively strong Bright Yang (Yang Ming) constitution will develop the
type of patterns envisaged by Soothe the Centre (Six Gentlemen Decoction), while a
29
person with a weaker Bright Yang constitution will develop the type of patterns
envisaged by Central Mansion (Ginseng-Poria-Atractylodes Powder). See Table 2.
Table 2. Comparison of Central Mansion, Soothe the Centre and Jade Spring.
CENTRAL MANSION
SOOTHE THE
JADE SPRING
CENTRE
Pattern
Action
Symptoms
Deficiency of Qi and Yin of
Stomach- and Spleen-Qi
Stomach-, Lung- and Spleen-
Stomach and Spleen,
deficiency, Dampness, Qi
Yin
Dampness
stagnation
Tonify Qi and Yin of
Tonify Stomach- and Spleen-
Nourish Stomach- Lung- and
Stomach and Spleen, resolve
Qi, resolve Dampness, move
Spleen-Yin
Dampness
Qi, eliminate stagnation
Tiredness, dry mouth without
Tiredness, feeling of
Dry mouth, slight thirst with
desire to drink, loose stools,
heaviness, fullness and
desire to drink in small sips,
slight epigastric pain, poor
distension of the
burning epigastric pain, dry
appetite
epigastrium, irritability,
throat, dry cough, tiredness,
sticky taste, slight epigastric
feeling of heat in the evening
pain, poor appetite
Complexion
Dull-pale, without lustre
Dull-pale with more lustre or
Pale, malar flush, floating-
pale-yellow
red over pale
Body shape
Slightly thin
Overweight
Thin
Epigastric sensation
Slight epigastric pain, slight
Slight epigastric pain,
Burning epigastric pain, no
feeling of heaviness in the
feeling of heaviness, fullness
distension, fullness or
epigastrium
and distension of the
heaviness
epigastrium
Tongue
Pale, thin-sticky coating,
Pale, slight swollen, sides
Without coating, body
which may be rootless in
may be slightly red (if Qi
normal or red depending on
patches, midline Stomach
stagnation is pronounced)
whether there is Empty Heat
crack or scattered Stomach
or not, midline Stomach
cracks, slight transversal
crack or scattered Stomach
Spleen cracks on the sides
cracks, Spleen cracks on the
sides
Pulse
Weak, slightly Floating-
Weak but also Slippery, may
Floating-Empty, especially
Empty on the right-guan
be slightly Wiry (if Qi
on the right-guan position,
position
stagnation is pronounced)
Rapid if there is Empty Heat
30
Mental-emotional pattern
Key words: Grounding Oneself.
This formula is for long-standing Stomach and Spleen deficiency. The Earth element
is the Centre for the other four Elements and gives us grounding and, literally and
metaphorically, a centre. A person suffering from a deficiency of the Earth Element as
addressed by this formula, will feel ungrounded and without a centre. Very often this
person's gait will look ungrounded, lifting their heels slightly as they walk, as if they
were walking only on the ball of the foot, without putting the heels down. This person
will feel depressed and his or her depression stems from a feeling of not belonging,
isolation, ungroundedness and lack of centre. Very often, these people have left their
family home at an early age. As adults, a weakness of the Earth may manifest in opposite
ways: they may either be excessively nurturing or emotional coldness towards family
members.
Caution and contraindications
This formula is a gentle and wide-ranging Qi tonic that can be taken for a long time
without any real contraindication. As it includes herbs that drain or resolve Dampness,
there is no danger of the tonic herbs causing stagnation.
Classical antecedent: Shen Ling Bai Zhu San (Ginseng-Poria-Atractylodes Powder)
Remedy in a nutshell: digestive problems and loose stools from Stomach-Yin deficiency.
CHEMO-SUPPORT
Huang Qi Radix Astragali
Ren Shen Radix Ginseng
Ling Zhi Ganoderma
Mu Dan Pi Cortex Moutan
Zhi Mu Rhizoma Anemarrhenae
31
Fu Ling Poria
Chen Pi Pericarpium Citri reticulatae
Mai Men Dong Radix Ophiopogonis
Dang Gui Radix Angelicae sinensis
Ban Xia Rhizoma Pinelliae preparatum
Lu Gen Rhizoma Phragmatis
Nu Zhen Zi Fructus Ligustri lucidi
Sha Ren Fructus Amomi
Huang Jing Rhizoma Polygonati
Gan Cao Radix Glycyrrhizae
Pattern: Stomach and Spleen-Qi deficiency, Stomach and Lung-Yin deficiency,
Kidney deficiency, Blood Heat, Dampness.
Action: Tonify Qi, nourish Yin, cool Blood, resolve Dampness.
Indications: Side-effects of chemotherapy - tiredness, nausea, vomiting, loss of
hair, decreased levels of white blood cells and/or platelets, bad digestion,
diarrhoea, mouth ulcers.
Explanation
Huang Qi, Ren Shen and Ling Zhi tonify Qi. Xi Yang Shen and Mai Men Dong tonify Qi
and Yin. Mu Dan Pi and Zhi Mu clear Heat. Fu Ling and Chen Pi resolve Dampness. Dang
Gui, Ban Xia, Lu Gen and Sha Ren harmonize the Stomach and stop nausea and vomiting;
Lu Gen also clears Stomach-Heat. Nu Zhen Zi and Huang Jing nourish Yin and help to
nourish Blood.
Caution and contraindications
This formula should be taken every day throughout the chemotherapy course and can be
started approximately two weeks before the beginning of the course and continued for
32
two weeks after the end of the course. The recommended dosage is 9 tablets a day but
this can be increased according to severity of side-effects.
Remedy in a nutshell: alleviating the side-effects of chemotherapy.
CHILDREN’S HERBAL SENTINEL
Gui Zhi Ramulus Cinnamomi
Bai Shao Radix Paeoniae alba
Sheng Jiang Rhizoma Zingiberis recens
Da Zao Fructus Jujubae
Zhi Gan Cao Radix Glycyrrhizae preparata
Shen Qu Massa medicata fermentata
Lai Fu Zi Semen Raphani
Shan Zha Fructus Crataegi
Gu Ya Fructus Setariae germinatus
Tai Zi Shen Radix Pseudostellariae
Huang Qi Radix Astragali
Bai Zhu Rhizoma Atractylodis macrocephalae
Fang Feng Radix Saposhnikoviae
Fu Ling Poria
Chen Pi Pericarpium Citri reticulatae
Pattern: Deficiency of Qi, Dampness, food accumulation.
Action: Tonify Qi, consolidate the Exterior, raise immunity, resolve Dampness and dissolve food
accumulation.
Indications: Propensity to catching colds, hay fever, poor digestion, poor appetite, listlessness,
constantly runny nose, recurrent slight abdominal pain.
33
Explanation
This formula combines the two classical formulae Gui Zhi Tang (Ramulus Cinnamomi
Decoction) and Yu Ping Feng San (Jade Windscreen Powder). Gui Zhi Tang harmonizes Ying
and Wei and regulates the Cou Li space (the space between skin and muscles) where Wei Qi
circulates. In combination with the second formula Yu Ping Feng San which tonifies Qi, this
“firms” the Cou Li space preventing invasions of Wind.
Several digestive herbs (Shen Qu, Lai Fu Zi, Shan Zha, Gu Ya) were added as most children
have a weak Spleen, the younger they are, the weaker.
Mental-emotional pattern
This child is rather frail physically and emotionally. He or she will be a sensitive child who
suffers a lot from family conflicts and often elder sibling’s overpowering influence.
Caution and contraindications
None.
Classical antecedent: Gui Zhi Tang (Ramulus Cinnamomi Decoction) and Yu Ping Feng San
(Jade Windscreen Powder).
Remedy in a nutshell: strengthen children’s resistance to external invasions.
CLEAR CHANNELS
Yi Yi Ren Semen Coicis
Cang Zhu Rhizoma Atractylodis
Qiang Huo Rhizoma seu Radix Notopterygii
Du Huo Radix Angelicae pubescentis
Hai Feng Teng Caulis Piperis kadsurae
Wei Ling Xian Radix Clematidis
34
Fang Feng Radix Saposhnikoviae
Dang Gui Radix Angelicae sinensis
Chuan Xiong Rhizoma Chuanxiong
Ban Xia Rhizoma Pinelliae preparatum
Gui Zhi Ramulus Cinnamomi
Ru Xiang Olibanum
Huang Qin Radix Scutellariae
Gan Cao Radix Glycyrrhizae
Pattern: Damp-Heat in the joints, Blood stasis.
Action: Drain Dampness, expel Wind, clear Heat, benefit the joints, invigorate
Blood.
Indications: Sub-acute Bi Syndrome from Damp-Heat, painful, swollen, hot and red
joints, rheumatoid arthritis, gout.
Tongue: Swollen with sticky-yellow coating.
Pulse: Slippery, rapid.
Explanation
Please note that this remedy treats only the Manifestation (Biao) in Bi Syndrome from
Damp-Heat and not any underlying cause: it should therefore be used only for limited
periods of time (say, no longer than 3 months) at a time to deal with an acute or sub-acute
phase of joint pain. After suitable breaks, it can be prescribed again. Possible underlying
causes of Bi Syndrome from Damp-Heat are usually Spleen-Qi deficiency and Liver-Blood
deficiency.
Yi Yi Ren and Cang Zhu resolve Dampness from the joints. Qiang Huo and Du Huo
resolve Wind-Dampness from the Governing Vessel in its upper and lower part
respectively. Fang Feng expels Wind. Gui Zhi enters the blood vessels and helps to resolve
Dampness from the space between skin and muscles. Dang Gui and Chuan Xiong nourish
and harmonize Blood which helps to expel Wind from the channels. Gan Cao harmonizes.
35
Hai Feng Teng and Hai Tong Pi expel Wind-Dampness from the channels. Ru Xiang
invigorates Blood in the channels and stops pain. Fa Ban Xia and Huang Qin resolve
Dampness and Phlegm from the joints.
Mental-emotional pattern
Key word: Clarity.
Dampness clogs the channels and the Mind. A person suffering from the pattern of DampHeat will suffer from depression and a feeling of mental confusion. This person will tend
to be very helpful to others to the point of neglecting oneself. They may be "stuck" and
unable to "move on" in any or all areas of their life. This is a person who may complain of
dissatisfaction or unhappiness in, for example, their job or home-life but is unable to see
any way out of it.
Caution and contraindications
This remedy resolves Damp-Heat from the joints and aims to treat primarily the
Manifestation (Biao) of a condition of Bi Syndrome: as it treats primarily the
Manifestation, by definition, it should not be used for long periods of time. it can be used
for a few months at a time: it can then be resumed after a break of about one month.
After that, if the Damp-Heat is no longer predominant, one should use a formula that
treats the Root (Ben), i.e. that tonifies the Spleen or the Kidneys or that nourishes Blood.
In case of Blood deficiency, once can use Brocade Sinews; if there is Kidney-Yin
deficiency, one can use Nourish the Root and Clear Wind.
Also, if all symptoms and signs of Dampness have gone, one can use other general
remedies to nourish Blood (such as Precious Sea), tonify Kidney-Yang (Strengthen the
Root), nourish--Kidney-Yin (Nourish the Root) or tonify Spleen-Qi (Prosperous Earth).
If acupuncture is used, then it can be directed primarily at treating the Root (Ben), i.e.
nourishing Blood or strengthening the Kidneys and/or the Spleen (in addition to local
points on the affected joints).
36
Classical antecedent: Yi Yi Ren Tang (Semen Coicis Decoction).
Remedy in a nutshell: Bi Syndrome from Damp-Heat.
CLEAR LUSTRE
Shou Wu Radix Polygoni multiflori preparata
Dang Gui Radix Angelicae sinensis
Bai Xian Pi Cortex Dictamni
Fang Feng Radix Saposhnikoviae
Jing Jie Herba Schizonepetae
Ju Hua Flos Chrysanthemi
Ku Shen Radix Sophorae flavescentis
Mu Dan Pi Cortex Moutan
Huang Qin Radix Scutellariae
Zhi Mu Rhizoma Anemarrhenae
Zhu Ye Folium Phyllostachys nigrae
Gan Cao Radix Glycyrrhizae
Pattern: Wind-Dampness-Heat in the skin, Blood Heat.
Action: Expel Wind, clear Heat, cool Blood, resolve Dampness.
Indications: Skin rashes, skin spots, eczema, dermatitis.
Tongue: Red, possibly red only in the front part, yellow coating.
Pulse: Slippery and possibly fine on one side.
Explanation
Clear Lustre is a new formula aimed at treating a wide range of skin problems. It cools
Blood, resolves Dampness, expels Wind and clears Heat from the skin, a combination of
actions which makes it suitable for different skin problems, such as eczema, dermatitis,
37
rosacea and acne, and indicates its use for the active phase of a skin problem. Once the
skin problem is cleared up, this treatment could be followed up by using the formula
Glorious Sea to nourish the skin.
Shou Wu and Dang Gui nourish Blood and benefit the skin. Bai Xian Pi resolves
Damp-Heat from the skin; Huang Qin helps to resolve Damp-Heat. Fang Feng, Jing Jie and
Ju Hua expel Wind from the skin. Mu Dan Pi and Zhi Mu cool Blood. Shi Gao clears Heat
and stops itching.
Mental-emotional pattern
Key words: Finding Oneself.
The pattern is characterized by the Mind being obstructed and unsettled caused by
Blood-Heat and Liver-Blood deficiency respectively. Liver-Blood deficiency unroots the
Ethereal Soul and leads to fear and aimlessness, whilst Liver-Blood Heat causes anxiety
and mental restlessness. The pattern is caused by sadness combined with repressed
anger. The patient will be unable to express his or her emotions, which somatize on the
skin.
Caution and contraindications
This formula contains bitter-cold and pungent-cold herbs which, if used for a long time,
can weaken the Spleen and Stomach. It is therefore recommended that this formula be
used for no longer than 2-3 months at a time.
Remedy in a nutshell: skin problems from Blood Heat and Wind-Heat against a
background of Liver-Blood deficiency.
CLEAR METAL
Huang Qin Radix Scutellariae
Huang Lian Rhizoma Coptidis
38
Jin Yin Hua Flos Lonicerae
Lian Qiao Fructus Forsythiae
Da Qing Ye Folium Isatidis
Ban Lan Gen Radix Isatidis seu Baphicacanthis
Zhu Ye Folium Phyllostachys nigrae
Yu Xing Cao Herba Houttuniae
Chuan Bei Mu Bulbus Frittilariae cirrhosae
Zhi Mu Rhizoma Anemarrhenae
Sheng Di Huang Radix Rehmanniae
Bai He Bulbus Lilii
Mao Dong Qing Radix Ilicis pubescentis
Mu Dan Pi Cortex Moutan
Pattern: Heat in Lungs at Qi or Ying/Blood level.
Action: clear Lung-Heat, cool Blood, restore the descending of Lung-Qi.
Indications: acute cough, fever, thirst, feeling of heat, breathlessness, feeling of
oppression in the chest.
Tongue: red with thick-sticky yellow coating (Qi Level) or red without coating
(Ying/Blood level).
Pulse: Slippery-Rapid-Full-Overflowing (Qi Level); Floating-Empty or Fine and Rapid
(Ying/Blood Level).
Explanation
This remedy is for the sequelae of an external invasion of Wind, i.e. a severe cold or
influenza. From the point of view of the 4 Levels, in the beginning stages of an external
invasion of Wind, the pathogenic factor is at the Wei Level. If the Wind is not expelled,
it penetrates into the Interior and it turns into Heat. As the pathogenic factor disrupts
the function of the Stomach and Spleen, it often gives rise to Phlegm which then
combines with Heat: this is the Qi Level. At the Qi Level, the tongue is red and has a
39
thick-sticky yellow or brown coating.
Most people will recover at the Qi Level. If not, the Heat penetrates to a deeper level
and it injures Yin: this is the 3rd or 4th level, i.e. Ying Level or Blood Level. At the Ying
or Blood Level, the tongue is deep red and has no coating.
Huang Qin and Huang Lian resolve Dampness and clear Heat; from the point of view
of modern research, they have an anti-bacterial and anti-viral action. Jin Yin Hua, Lian
Qiao, Da Qing Ye, Mao Dong Qing and Ban Lan Gen expel Toxic-Heat and have an antiviral action. Zhu Ye, Yu Xing Cao and Zhi Mu clear Lung-Heat. Chuan Bei Mu resolves
Phlegm and restores the descending of Lung-Qi to stop cough. Sheng Di Huang and Bai
He nourish fluids to protect from injury from Heat. Mu Dan Pi clears Heat and cools
Blood (Blood Level).
Cautions and contraindications
This formula contains many bitter and cold herbs which, in the long run, may damage
the Spleen. However, this is unlikely to happen as, by definition, this remedy is used
only for a short time (acute chest infection).
Remedy in a nutshell: Qi, Ying or Blood level of a chest infection following a cold or
influenza.
CLEAR QI
Su Zi Fructus Perillae
Ban Xia Rhizoma Pinelliae preparatum
Hou Po Cortex Magnoliae officinalis
Qian Hu Radix Peucedani
Rou Gui Cortex Cinnamomi
Dang Gui Radix Angelicae sinensis
Xuan Fu Hua Flos Inulae
40
Xing Ren Semen Armeniacae
Zi Wan Radix Asteris
Fang Feng Radix Saposhnikoviae
Sang Ye Folium Mori
Sang Bai Pi Cortex Mori
Wu Wei Zi Fructus Schisandrae
Dan Shen Radix Salviae miltiorrhizae
Hu Tao Rou Semen Juglandis
Huang Qin Radix Scutellariae
Zhi Gan Cao Radix Glycyrrhizae preparata
Pattern: Lung-Qi not descending, Kidneys not grasping Qi.
Action: Restore the descending of Lung-Qi, expel Wind, stop wheezing.
Indications: Cough, asthma, wheezing, breathlessness, a feeling of oppression of the chest,
allergic asthma, seasonal allergic rhinitis with wheezing.
Tongue: Pale or normal-coloured.
Pulse: Weak.
Explanation
This formula stimulates the descending of Lung-Qi and its main therapeutic indication is
asthma and especially allergic asthma in children or young people. According to the
traditional theory, asthma is always due to Phlegm retained in the Lungs. However, in
children and young adults very often there are not many signs of Phlegm and the wheezing
attacks are due to Wind in the chest, while the underlying cause is a deficiency of the
Lungs and Kidneys. Thus, the Manifestation (Biao) is chronic Wind in the chest and the
Root (Ben) is a deficiency of the Lungs and Kidneys.
The formulae Herbal Sentinel - Yang and Herbal Sentinel - Yin address the Root by
tonifying Lungs and Kidneys, and the present formula Clear Qi addresses the
Manifestation of allergic asthma by restoring the descending of Lung-Qi and expelling
41
Wind from the chest.
Su Zi, Ban Xia and Qian Hu restore the descending of Lung-Qi and relieve wheezing
and breathlessness. Hou Po relaxes the chest to relieve wheezing. Dang Gui and Rou Gui
tonify the Liver and Kidneys and strengthen Qi in the Lower Burner to stimulate the
Kidneys' grasping of Qi. Xuan Fu Hua, Xing Ren, Sang Bai Pi and Zi Wan restore the
descending of Lung-Qi to stop wheezing, breathlessness and cough. Fang Feng and Sang
Ye expels Wind from the chest. Wu Wei Zi and Dan Shen have an anti-allergic effect;
besides this, Wu Wei Zi tonifies the Lungs and Dan Shen calms the Mind. Calming the
Mind in asthma also has an anti-spastic effect which will help to relieve the bronchospasm
causing asthma. Hu Tao Rou stimulates the Kidneys' grasping of Qi. Huang Qin was added
to counterbalance the effect of the warm herbs in the formula and Zhi Gan Cao
harmonizes.
Although Clear Qi contains Hu Tao Rou and Wu Wei Zi which tonify the Kidneys and
Lungs, the main impact of the formula is not to tonify but to restore the descending of
Lung-Qi and expel Wind to deal with the Manifestation, not the Root, of asthma.
As mentioned above, this formula is specific for allergic asthma without much Phlegm.
However, the older the patient, the more he or she is likely to have some Phlegm. If there
is Cold or Damp Phlegm, this formula can be combined with Limpid Sea.
Mental-emotional pattern
Key words: Heal Grief.
Sadness, grief or worry may cause stagnation of Lung-Qi in the chest and lead to
breathlessness and a feeling of tightness of the chest. This person will be prone to sadness,
crying and depression and all these emotions have a repercussion on the chest and the Po.
Because of the link between the Po and the Jing, such emotions also affect the Kidneys,
causing, from an emotional point of view, grief, anxiety, lack of will-power and
depression.
Caution and contraindications
42
This formula has an overall warming energy and it should therefore not be used if the
tongue is red. Apart from this, there are no other specific contraindications. As this
formula treats the Manifestation of asthma, it should not be used indefinitely and,
eventually, it should be followed up with the administration of either Herbal Sentinel Yang or Herbal Sentinel - Yin.
Classical antecedent: Su Zi Jiang Qi Tang (Perilla-Seed Descending Qi Decoction).
Remedy in a nutshell: treating the Manifestation (Biao) in asthma.
CLEAR THE ROOT
Huang Qi Radix Astragali
Rou Gui Cortex Cinnamomi
Sheng Di Huang Radix Rehmanniae
Huang Bo Cortex Phellodendri
Tu Si Zi Semen Cuscutae
Yi Yi Ren Semen Coicis
Bie Xie Rhizoma Dioscoreae hypoglaucae
Wang Bu Liu Xing Semen Vaccariae
Mu Dan Pi Cortex Moutan
Shi Chang Pu Rhizoma Acori tatarinowii
Bai Hua She She Cao Herba Hedyotis diffusae
Gan Cao Radix Glycyrrhizae
Lu Lu Tong Fructus Liquidambaris
Shi Wei Folium Pyrrosiae
Hai Jin Sha Herba Lygodii
Kun Bu Thallus Eckloniae
43
Pattern: Qi and Yin deficiency, Damp-Heat in the Lower Burner, Blood stasis, ToxicHeat.
Action: Tonify Qi, nourish Kidney-Yin, drain Damp-Heat, move Blood, separate the
clear from the turbid, soften hardness (masses), resolve Toxic Heat.
Indications: Chronic prostatitis, prostatic hypertrophy (benign or malignant), difficult
urination, frequent-scanty urination, nocturia, weak-stream urination, feeling of
tension in the hypogastrium or perineum, tiredness, poor memory, dizziness, tinnitus.
Tongue: Red (possibly without coating), sticky-yellow coating on the root with red
spots.
Pulse: Fine-rapid or Floating-Empty; the left rear position might feel Slippery on
rolling the finger proximally (this is the prostate position).
Explanation
Clear the Root is a new formula aimed at treating chronic prostate problems such as
prostatitis or prostatic hypertrophy. Its therapeutic aim is achieved by tonifying Qi,
nourishing the Kidneys, draining Dampness, moving Blood, resolving Phlegm, softening
hardness, separating the clear from the turbid, and resolving Toxic Heat. However, its
use need not be restricted only to prostate problems. It is applicable also to many bladder
problems in the elderly or middle-aged (of both sexes) due to Damp-Heat in the Lower
Burner occurring against a background of Kidney-Yin deficiency.
Huang Qi tonifies Qi and helps to move fluids in the Water passages. Rou Gui is added
in a very small dose to warm the Lower Burner in order to promote the transformation of
fluids. Sheng Di Huang nourishes Kidney-Yin. Huang Bai, Yi Yi Ren, Shi Wei and Bi Xie
resolve Dampness from the Lower Burner and promote the separation of clear from turbid
fluids in the urinary passages. Tu Si Zi tonifies Kidney-Yang. Wang Bu Liu Xing, Lu Lu
Tong and Mu Dan Pi invigorate Blood and dissolve masses. Shi Chang Pu opens the
orifices of the Lower Burner which helps to transform and excrete fluids. Bai Hua She She
Cao resolves Toxic Heat and has an anti-cancer effect. Hai Jin Sha resolves Damp-Heat
and Toxic Heat and reduces swellings. Kun Bu softens masses.
44
Mental-emotional pattern
Key words: No Regrets.
The pattern is often caused by guilt and fear over a long period of time. The patient will
feel guilty and be full of regrets about the past. Guilt affects the Kidneys and may cause
either a deficiency with sinking of Qi or a stagnation in the Lower Burner; the latter is the
case in this pattern.
Caution and contraindications
The formula contains fairly strong invigorating-Blood and resolving Toxic Heat herbs
(although in a very small dose) so it should not be used continuously for more than a few
months at a time; however, with breaks of about a month in between, it can be used over a
long period. Contraindicated in pregnancy.
Clear the Root may also be used in small doses (say, 1-2 tablets per day) for the
prevention of prostate problems in men over 50.
Remedy in a nutshell: prostate problems from Dampness, Phlegm, Blood stasis and Toxic
Heat.
Remedy in a nutshell: prostate problems from Damp-Heat, Phlegm and Blood stasis.
Timing of administration: Take before meals.
CLEAR THE SOUL
Zhu Ru Caulis Bambusae in Taeniam
Zhi Shi Fructus Aurantii immaturus
Ban Xia Rhizoma Pinelliae preparatum
Fu Ling Poria
45
Chen Pi Pericarpium Citri reticulatae
Da Zao Fructus Jujubae
Gan Cao Radix Glycyrrhizae
He Huan Pi Cortex Albiziae
Yu Jin Radix Curcumae
Yuan Zhi Radix Polygalae
Shi Chang Pu Rhizoma Acori tatarinowii
Bai Zi Ren Semen Platycladi
Dan Shen Radix Salviae miltiorrhizae
Pattern: Phlegm-Heat obstructing the chest and Mind, Lung-Qi not descending.
Action: Resolves Phlegm-Heat, calms the Mind, opens the Mind’s orifices, relaxes
the chest.
Indications: Anxiety, a feeling of oppression of the chest and epigastrium,
palpitations, a bitter-sticky taste, sighing, feeling uneasy, phlegm in the chest, poor
digestion, slight nausea, insomnia, dream-disturbed sleep, dull complexion, mental
restlessness, depression, jumpiness, a flustered feeling in the heart region, vomiting,
dizziness and pre-menstrual tension.
Tongue: Red or normal, swollen, sticky-yellow coating, Stomach crack or StomachHeart crack with rough yellow coating inside it. A combined Heart and Stomach
crack on the tongue extends all the way to the tip, as a Heart crack would do, but it is
wide and shallow in the centre, as a Stomach crack would be.
Pulse: Slippery, rapid. The Heart pulse may feel relatively overflowing.
Explanation
Clear the Soul is a variation of “Warming the Gall-Bladder Decoction” (Wen Dan Tang).
The formula is aimed at treating emotional tension and anxiety occurring against a
background of Phlegm obstructing the chest and therefore the Lungs and Heart. The key
features of this formula, which is very effective, are emotional tension deriving from
46
worry, grief or sadness affecting Lungs and Heart and causing a feeling of oppression of
the chest, a swollen tongue with a Stomach (or Heart/Stomach) crack in the centre and a
thick, sticky, yellow coating, and a Slippery pulse in the middle positions.
He Huan Pi, Yu Jin, Yuan Zhi, Shi Chang Pu, Bai Zi Ren and Dan Shen are added to
soothe the Liver, open the Mind’s orifices, calm the Mind, settle the Ethereal Soul and lift
depression.
The formula has been called "Clear the Soul" because on the one hand it settles the
Ethereal Soul by resolving Phlegm and clearing Heat and on the other it releases tension of
the Corporeal Soul by relaxing the chest and the Lungs. The feeling of oppression in the
chest and the sighing are due to constraint of the Corporeal Soul in the chest.
Clear the Soul can be used for pre-menstrual tension deriving from Phlegm-Heat
harassing upwards. When this happens, the main pre-menstrual symptoms would be severe
anxiety, mental restlessness, severe irritability, very swollen and tender breasts, a
Slippery-Rapid pulse and a Red tongue with a sticky-yellow coating. The Women’s
Treasure formula Clear the Moon is specific for such breast problems and is also a
variation of Wen Dan Tang.
Mental-emotional pattern
Key words: Still Mind.
Phlegm-Heat disturbs the Mind in two ways: Phlegm obstructs the Mind’s orifices and
Heat agitates the Mind. The combination of these two factors will cause mental
restlessness, “manic” behaviour alternated with severe depression and insomnia. This
pattern is usually caused by pensiveness, jealousy, worry, or obsessive thinking over a long
period of time.
Caution and contraindications
Provided the formula matches the presenting pattern well, i.e. that there is Phlegm-Heat,
there are no contraindications.
47
Classical antecedent: Wen Dan Tang (Warming the Gall-Bladder Decoction).
Remedy in a nutshell: anxiety and depression from sadness, grief and worry manifesting
with Phlegm-Heat in Lungs and Heart.
CLEAR YANG
Ban Xia Rhizoma Pinelliae preparatum
Bai Zhu Rhizoma Atractylodis macrocephalae
Fu Ling Poria
Chen Pi Pericarpium Citri reticulatae
Gan Cao Radix Glycyrrhizae
Da Zao Fructus Jujubae
Gou Teng Ramulus Uncariae cum Uncis
Bai Ji Li Fructus Tribuli
Ju Hua Flos Chrysanthemi
Man Jing Zi Fructus Viticis
Dang Gui Radix Angelicae sinensis
Tu Si Zi Semen Cuscutae
Du Zhong Cortex Eucommiae
Gou Qi Zi Fructus Lycii
Yuan Zhi Radix Polygalae
Shi Chang Pu Rhizoma Acori tatarinowii
Pattern: Liver-Yang rising, Phlegm clouding the head, Blood deficiency, KidneyYang deficiency.
Action: Subdue Liver-Yang, extinguish Liver-Wind, resolve Phlegm, nourish Blood,
tonify Kidney-Yang, tonify Spleen-Qi.
Indications: Headaches which may be throbbing or dull in nature, dizziness, a
48
feeling of heaviness and muzziness of the head which is worse in the morning,
catarrh, a feeling of oppression of the chest, nausea, a sticky taste, blurred vision,
vomiting during migraine attacks, tics, high blood pressure.
Tongue: Pale or normal-coloured, swollen, sticky-white coating.
Pulse: Weak and slightly Slippery.
Explanation
This formula is specifically to treat headaches occurring against a background of both
Phlegm and Liver-Yang rising: this pattern is, in fact, probably the most common pattern
encountered in chronic headaches, especially in middle-aged or old people. Phlegm,
formed as a result of Spleen deficiency over a long time, clouds the head’s orifices and
prevents the clear Yang from rising to the head to brighten its orifices: as a result, the
patient has a dull headache on the forehead with a feeling of heaviness and muzziness
(fuzziness) of upper orifices by Phlegm also causes dizziness and blurred vision.
Obstruction of the Middle Burner by Phlegm causes a feeling of nausea, seldom to the
point of vomiting, except during acute migraine attacks. Liver-Yang rising causes
headaches with a throbbing character, usually unilateral, on a temple, or the side of the
head or behind an eye. Thus, these patients will have two different types of headaches: a
more constant, dull one from Phlegm, punctuated by attacks of migraine-like, throbbing
headaches from Liver-Yang rising. As mentioned above, this condition is more common in
people over 35.
Liver-Yang rising may also occur against a background of Kidney-Yang deficiency.
Although it is Kidney-Yin deficiency that usually gives rise to Liver-Yang rising, in people
over 40, both Kidney-Yang and Kidney-Yin are often deficient; thus if there is a primary
deficiency of Kidney-Yang, there is often a secondary deficiency of Kidney-Yin that may
cause Liver-Yang to rise. For these reasons, this formula has been modified to nourish
Liver-Blood and tonify Kidney-Yang. By rising to the head, Liver-Yang also carries the
pathogenic Phlegm with it, thus aggravating the clouding of the head's orifices.
Ban Xia, Fu Ling and Chen Pi resolve Phlegm. Bai Zhu tonifies the Spleen and dries
49
Dampness. Gou Teng, Bai Ji Li, Ju Hua and Man Jing Zi extinguish Wind, subdue LiverYang and treat headaches. Dang Gui and Gou Qi Zi nourish Liver-Blood. Tu Si Zi and Du
Zhong tonify Kidney-Yang. Yuan Zhi and Shi Chang Pu open the head’s orifices and allow
the clear Yang to brighten the orifices.
Because this formula also extinguishes Wind, it is suitable to treat facial tics from
internal Wind. With the appropriate presentation, it is also suitable to treat hypertension in
old people.
Mental-emotional pattern
Key words: Lucid Clarity.
Phlegm obstructs the head’s orifices and, on a mental level, it clouds the Mind, causing
a feeling of disorientation, lack of clarity about one's aims and priorities and a certain
aimlessness. This type of person will talk in a hesitant manner and will be confused
about his or her condition and about life in general.
Caution and contraindications
This formula resolves Phlegm with pungent, drying herbs: its use is therefore
contraindicated if the patient suffers from Yin deficiency (manifested by a tongue
without coating or with rootless coating).
Classical antecedent: Ban Xia Bai Zhu Tian Ma Tang (Pinellia-AtractylodesGastrodia
Decoction).
Remedy in a nutshell: headaches and dizziness from Phlegm and Liver-Yang rising.
Timing of administration: Take after meals.
DRAIN FIELDS
50
Huo Xiang Herba Pogostemonis
Ban Xia Rhizoma Pinelliae preparatum
Fu Ling Poria
Xing Ren Semen Armeniacae
Yi Yi Ren Semen Coicis
Bai Dou Kou Fructus Amomi rotundus
Zhu Ling Polyporus
Dan Dou Chi Semen Sojae preparatum
Ze Xie Rhizoma Alismatis
Hou Po Cortex Magnoliae officinalis
Zhi Gan Cao Radix Glycyrrhizae preparata
Huang Qi Radix Astragali
Bai Zhu Rhizoma Atractylodis macrocephalae
Sha Ren Fructus Amomi
Pei Lan Herba Eupatorii
Lu Gen Rhizoma Phragmatis
Pattern: Dampness in the Centre and muscles, and Spleen-Qi deficiency.
Action: Resolve Dampness, tonify Qi.
Indications: Feeling of oppression in the epigastrium, muzziness of the head, lack of
concentration, poor memory, feeling of heaviness, tiredness, aching muscles, a sticky taste,
nausea, poor appetite, loose stools.
Tongue: Sticky-white coating.
Pulse: Slippery and weak.
Explanation
Drain Fields is a variation of “Agastache-Magnolia-Pinellia-Poria Decoction” (Huo Po
Xia Ling Tang) used to drain Dampness, especially in post-viral fatigue syndrome. It can
be used in all cases when the condition is characterized predominantly by retention of
51
Dampness (without Heat). The tiredness and exhaustion experienced by patients with postviral syndrome should not lead us automatically to tonify. If the tongue has a thick-sticky
coating, the pulse is predominantly slippery and full, and the symptoms indicate
pronounced retention of Dampness (manifesting principally as pronounced muscle ache), it
is then safe to eliminate Dampness before tonifying the body's Qi. This formula is
ideally suited to do this, as it is aimed at resolving Dampness from the muscles
(manifesting as muscle ache with a feeling of heaviness), from the head (manifesting as
muzziness/fuzziness of the brain and impaired thinking), and from the Stomach and Spleen
(manifesting as epigastric fullness, nausea, sticky taste, poor appetite).
Huang Qi and Bai Zhu have been added to tonify Qi. Sha Ren and Pei Lan are two
fragrant herbs which resolve Dampness from the muscles. Lu Gen has been added to clear
any Heat that there might be and also to relieve nausea.
This formula should be chosen if the Full aspect predominates over the Deficiency. If
the latter predominates, consider using Tonify Qi and Ease the Muscles. If there is DampHeat rather than Dampness, use Ease the Muscles.
Mental-emotional pattern
Key words: Clear Mind.
Apart from its viral origin, this pattern is caused by pensiveness, worrying and
obsessive thinking over a long period of time. The patient will find it difficult to break out
of the mental-emotional patterns of the condition. Just as on a physical level, Dampness is
sticky and difficult to get rid of, so, on a mental level, the patient will tend to be stuck in
obsessive thoughts which are very difficult to overcome.
Caution and contraindications
Provided there are clear signs and symptoms of Dampness, there are no specific
contraindications for this formula.
Classical antecedent: Huo Po Xia Ling Tang ( Agastache-Magno lia -Pi nellia-Poria
52
Decoc tion).
Remedy in a nutshell: residual Dampness in muscles, head and digestive system in
chronic fatigue syndrome.
DRAIN FIRE
Long Dan Cao Radix Gentianae
Huang Qin Radix Scutellariae
Shan Zhi Zi Fructus Gardeniae
Ze Xie Rhizoma Alismatis
Che Qian Zi Semen Plantaginis
Sheng Di Huang Radix Rehmanniae
Dang Gui Radix Angelicae sinensis
Chai Hu Radix Bupleuri
Gan Cao Radix Glycyrrhizae
Suan Zao Ren Semen Ziziphi spinosae
Yuan Zhi Radix Polygalae
Ju Hua Flos Chrysanthemi
Gou Teng Ramulus Uncariae cum Uncis
Lian Xin Plumula Nelumbinis
Pattern: Liver-Fire, Heart-Fire, Damp-Heat in Upper and Lower Burner.
Action: Drain Liver-Fire, drain Heart-Fire, clear Heat, resolve Dampness, calm the
Mind, settle the Ethereal Soul.
Indications: Headaches, irritability, propensity to outbursts of anger, red face, a bitter
taste, tinnitus, dizziness, bloodshot eyes, thirst, constipation, dry stools, scanty-dark
urine, nosebleeds, blood in urine or stools, a feeling of heat, anxiety, agitation,
insomnia, dream-disturbed sleep, ear infection, tongue ulcers, cystitis with burning on
53
micturition, urethritis, vaginitis, yellow vaginal discharge, heavy periods.
Tongue: Red with redder and swollen sides, red points on the sides and tip, yellow
coating.
Pulse: Wiry and rapid.
Explanation
This is a very important formula with a wide-ranging clinical application. First of all, it
drains Liver- and Heart-Fire. To explain this, we should be clear about the difference
between “Fire” and “Heat”. Fire and Heat obviously have the same character but there are
important differences between them. Heat is less severe and more superficial than Fire and
is “cleared” usually with pungent-cold herbs: the pungent taste pushes Heat outwards
towards the surface. An example of a pungent-cold herb is Shi Gao Gypsum. The method
of c1earing Heat with pungent cold herbs is adopted in cases of Heat when the pulse is
usually Overflowing: this pulse quality indicates that the Heat is quite superficial.
Fire is more intense and deeper than Heat: its depth is reflected by the pulse being deep
and full. Fire cannot be pushed out as Heat can, but it must be drained downwards with
bitter-cold herbs: whilst the pungent taste pushes Heat outwards, the bitter taste makes Qi
descend and drains Fire downwards, usually through the bowel movement. A classic
example of a bitter-cold herb to drain Fire is Da Huang which drains Fire through
defecation. However, other bitter-cold herbs also drain Fire through defecation (albeit in a
less obvious way than Da Huang), e.g. Long Dan Cao and Huang Qin.
Fire has three effects that Heat does not have: it is more drying (hence dry stools, thirst
and scanty urine), it affects the Mind more (hence propensity to anger, agitation, insomnia
and, in severe cases, mental illness), and it causes bleeding (hence nosebleed, blood in
urine or stools). For example, Liver-Heat (often associated with or deriving from LiverYang rising) may manifest with headaches, irritability, dizziness, a feeling of heat and a
red face, but Liver-Fire will manifest (in addition to the above symptoms) with intense
thirst, dry stools, scanty urine, a bitter taste, outbursts of anger and perhaps nosebleeds.
We should therefore be clear that the present formula drains Fire rather than clearing Heat
54
and is applicable only in the presence of some essential symptoms and signs which are:
•
A red tongue with a dry yellow coating
•
A wiry, rapid and relatively deep pulse
•
A bitter taste, thirst and dry stools.
Because of the complex pathway of the Liver channel and the profound influence of
Liver-Qi on other organs, Liver-Fire may cause symptoms in many different systems. First
of all, because Fire rises, there will be headaches, red face, outbursts of anger, tinnitus, ear
infections. Liver-Fire affects the Intestines causing dry stools and constipation; the
gynaecological system causing heavy periods; the urinary system causing burning on
urination; and the Mind causing insomnia, agitation, dream-disturbed sleep.
Apart from its use for Liver- and Heart-Fire, this formula can be used for Damp-Heat
in the Upper or Lower Burner: in the Upper Burner, for such problems as ear infections
from Damp-Heat in the Gall-Bladder channel, and in the Lower Burner for Damp-Heat in
the genito-urinary system causing cystitis, urethritis or vaginitis.
Long Dan Cao is the emperor herb in the formula, draining Liver-Fire and resolving
Damp-Heat. Huang Qin and Shan Zhi Zi assist Long Dan Cao in draining Fire and
resolving Damp-Heat. Che Qian Zi and Ze Xie help to drain Fire and Damp-Heat through
urination. Dang Gui Shen and Sheng Di Huang nourish Liver-Blood and help to pacify the
Liver. Chai Hu, messenger herb, directs the formula to the Liver channel. I added Suan
Zao Ren (Chao) and Yuan Zhi to calm the Mind and settle the Ethereal Soul. Huang Ju
Hua and Gou Teng (Shuang) were added to subdue Liver-Yang and treat headaches and
dizziness. Lian Zi Xin was added to clear Heart-Heat, drain Heart-Fire and calm the Mind.
Mental-emotional pattern
Key word: Forgiveness.
Anger, frustration, resentment, hatred typically cause this pattern to develop over a
long period of time. The same type of emotions may also give rise to Liver-Qi stagnation:
why do they sometimes cause Liver-Qi stagnation and sometimes Liver-Fire? This is
mostly due to the personality type and the Five-Element type of the person. Introvert
55
people will tend to develop Liver-Qi stagnation when they suffer the above emotions and
repress their anger, while extrovert people will tend to develop Liver-Fire and manifest
their anger. Similarly, a Fire type (short stature, round-fat body, small hands, walking fast,
with a strong libido and talking and laughing a lot) who is subject to the above emotions
will tend to develop Liver-Fire, while a Wood type (tall, thin, sinewy) will tend to develop
Liver-Qi stagnation. It is often said that “anger should be manifested”: in fact, this will
help only in the case of Liver-Qi stagnation when anger is repressed and it may not help in
case of Liver-Fire.
In cases of Liver-Fire, it may not help to manifest the anger and, in some cases, it
may even make the situation worse, adding more fuel to Fire. Of course, other factors,
such as excessive consumption of hot-spicy foods and alcohol, play a role in the
pathogenesis of this condition.
Caution and contraindications
This formula is for Fire and must therefore be used only when there are clear
manifestations of Fire as indicated above. As long as the diagnosis of Liver-Fire is
correct, there are no specific contraindications to the use of this formula. Obviously, this
is not a tonifying formula and should therefore not be used for long periods of time. As
it contains bitter-cold herbs, long-term use of this formula may damage the Spleen.
Therefore, if it is used in the long term, its use should be discontinued for 1 month every
4-5 months.
Acupuncturists can prevent this from happening by paying attention to supporting the
Spleen during the course of treatment with points such as Ren-12 Zhongwan, ST-36
Zusanli and BL-20 Pishu. Contraindicated in pregnancy.
Classical antecedent:Long Dan Xie Gan Tang (Gentiana Draining the Liver Decoction).
Remedy in a nutshell: Liver-Fire and Heart-Fire.
56
EASE THE MUSCLES
Huang Lian Rhizoma Coptidis
Hou Po Cortex Magnoliae officinalis
Shi Chang Pu Rhizoma Acori tatarinowii
Ban Xia Rhizoma Pinelliae preparatum
Dan Dou Chi Semen Sojae preparatum
Shan Zhi Zi Fructus Gardeniae
Lu Gen Rhizoma Phragmatis
Huang Qi Radix Astragali
Bai Zhu Rhizoma Atractylodis macrocephalae
Sha Ren Fructus Amomi
Yi Yi Ren Semen Coicis
Huo Xiang Herba Pogostemonis
Fu Ling Poria
Pattern: Damp-Heat lurking in the Interior.
Action: Clear Heat, resolve Dampness, regulate Qi, harmonize the Centre.
Indications: Tiredness, a feeling of heaviness, muzziness of the head, lack of concentration,
poor memory, ache in the muscles, muscle fatigue, feeling of heat, a feeling of oppression of the
epigastrium, a sticky taste or bitter taste, poor appetite, loose stools.
Tongue: Red or slightly red with a sticky-yellow coating. Even if the tongue is not red, the
presence of a sticky- yellow coating is an essential sign for the prescription of this formula.
Pulse: Slippery, possibly only on the right side.
Explanation
Ease the Muscles is a variation of “Coptis-Magnolia Decoction” (Lian Po Yin). The formula
has proved highly effective in eliminating Damp-Heat, which causes post-viral fatigue
syndrome. It can be used in all cases when the condition is characterized predominantly by
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retention of Damp-Heat. The tiredness and exhaustion experienced by patients with postviral syndrome should not lead us automatically to tonify. If the tongue has a thick-sticky
yellow coating, the pulse is predominantly Slippery and Full, and the symptoms indicate
pronounced retention of Damp-Heat (manifesting principally as pronounced muscle ache), it
is then safe to eliminate Damp-Heat before tonifying the body’s Qi.
The formula is ideally suited to do this, as it is aimed at resolving Dampness and
clearing Heat from the muscles (manifesting as muscle ache and a feeling of heaviness),
from the head (manifesting as muzziness of the brain and impaired thinking) and from
the Stomach and Spleen (manifesting as epigastric fullness, nausea, thirst, sticky-bitter
taste, poor appetite).
Huang Qi and Bai Zhu were added to introduce some tonification within elimination
because in chronic conditions there is always some deficiency within the fullness. Sha
Ren and Huo Xiang are two fragrant herbs which resolve Dampness from the muscles
and therefore deal with the muscle ache and fatigue and the feeling of heaviness. Yi Yi
Ren and Fu Ling drain Dampness via urination and were added to strengthen the overall
Dampness-resolving effect of the formula. This formula should be chosen if the Excess
aspect predominates over the Deficiency. If the latter predominates, consider using
Tonify Qi and Ease the Muscles. If there is Dampness without Heat, use Drain Fields.
Mental-emotional pattern
Key words: Clear Mind.
Apart from the viral origin of the problem (in case of chronic fatigue syndrome), this
pattern is caused also by pensiveness, worrying and obsessive thinking over a long
period of time. The patient will find it difficult to break out of the mental-emotional
patterns of the condition. Just as, on a physical level, Dampness is sticky and difficult to
get rid of, so, on a mental level, the patient will tend to be stuck in obsessive thoughts
which are very difficult to shake off. As this pattern is characterized by Heat, there will
also be some anxiety and mental restlessness.
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Caution and contraindications
The formula can be used for several months because it combines resolving Damp-Heat
with some tonification. As the formula deals directly with Damp-Heat, when it is used in
combination with acupuncture it allows the acupuncturist to direct attention to tonifying
the body's Qi. Contraindicated in pregnancy.
Classical antecedent: Lian Po Yin (Coptis-Magnolia Decoction)
Remedy in a nutshell: residual Damp-Heat in the muscles, head and digestive system in
chronic fatigue syndrome.
EXPEL TOXIC HEAT
Ban Lan Gen Radix Isatidis seu Baphicacanthis
Da Qing Ye Folium Isatidis
Huang Qi Radix Astragali
Ling Zhi Ganoderma
Huang Qin Radix Scutellariae
Huang Lian Rhizoma Coptidis
Huang Bo Cortex Phellodendri
Jin Yin Hua Flos Lonicerae
Zi Hua Di Ding Herba Violae
Mu Dan Pi Cortex Moutan
Xuan Shen Radix Scrophulariae
Gan Cao Radix Glycyrrhizae
Pattern: Heat, Blood-Heat, Toxic Heat.
Action: clears Heat, cools Blood, clears Toxic Heat.
Indications: bacterial or viral infections affecting the skin or internally.
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Explanation
The remedy Expel Toxic Heat is based on the formula Huang Lian Jie Du Tang which resolve
Toxic Heat. The remedy has been modified with the addition of herbs that have an anti-viral
effect. In terms of patterns, the remedy is for Heat, Fire, Blood-Heat or Toxic Heat.
Ban Lan Gen and Da Qing Ye clear Heat and have an anti-viral effect. Huang Qi and Ling
Zhi are in the formula not to tonify Qi but to increase the Dampness and Toxic Heat resolving
effect in skin infections. Huang Qin, Huang Lian and Huang Bo clear Heat, resolve Dampness
and resolve Toxic Heat. Jin Yin Hua and Zi Hua Di Ding resolve Toxic Heat. Mu Dan Pi and
Xuan Shen cool Blood.
The remedy Expel Toxic Heat can be used for a very wide variety of bacterial or viral
infections in any part of the body, including skin infections. It may be used for boils, carbuncles,
acne with large-purulent papules, viral lung infection, bacterial bronchitis, bacterial cystitis.
“Toxic Heat” refers to any manifestation of Heat and especially Fire that is characterized by a
local feeling of heat, a swelling, redness and pain. For example, a large, painful carbuncle is a
manifestation of Toxic Heat.
Mental-emotional pattern
Key words: Catharsis.
Toxic Heat is characterized by strong Fire, Blood Heat and it shares some of the
characteristics of Dampness or Phlegm. A single episode of Toxic Heat from a bacterial
infection does not have any mental-emotional aspect. However, if a person is prone to recurrent
attacks of Toxic Heat, it may indicate an underlying mental-emotional component. The most
common emotional origin of this is from anger and resentment: these lead to Heat and Fire and
this will cause not only anxiety but also a propensity to outbursts of anger: this person may
always blame everybody else but him- or herself.
Cautions and contraindications
The remedy Expel Toxic Heat contains bitter and cold herbs which, in the long run, can damage
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the Spleen. This is unlikely to happen because this remedy by definition is given only for short
periods while an infection exists.
Classical antecedent: Huang Lian Jie Du Tang (Coptis Resolving Toxin Decoction).
Remedy in a nutshell: bacterial or viral infections with Toxic Heat.
EXPEL WIND COLD
Jing Jie Herba Schizonepetae
Fang Feng Radix Saposhnikoviae
Zi Su Ye Folium Perillae
Qian Hu Radix Peucedani
Jie Geng Radix Platycodi
Bo He Herba Menthae haplocalycis
Bai Qian Rhizoma Cynanchi stautonii
Bai Zhi Radix Angelicae dahuricae
Xin Yi Hua Flos Magnoliae
Chuan Xiong Rhizoma Chuanxiong
Ge Gen Radix Puerariae
Gan Cao Radix Glycyrrhizae
Pattern: Invasion of Wind-Cold, pathogenic factor on the Exterior.
Action: Release the Exterior, expel Wind-Cold.
Indications: Runny nose, sneezing, aversion to cold, shivering, perhaps slight temperature,
cough, body aches, headache, hay fever.
Explanation
Expel Wind-Cold is a variation of the classical prescription “Schizonepeta-
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Saposhnikovia Releasing the Exterior Decoction" (Jing Fang Jie Biao Tang). This variation
expels Wind-Cold and releases the Exterior; it deals in particular with the symptoms of
runny nose, sneezing, stiff neck and shoulders, and headache. The formula is used only for
the exterior stage of an invasion of Wind-Cold. However, it could also be used for the
symptomatic relief of the symptoms of hay fever, provided they manifest as Wind-Cold and
not Wind-Heat. In this case it obviously treats only the Manifestation and not the Root of the
condition.
If the disease progresses to the Qi Level with a chest infection and cough, then the
remedy Ringing Metal or Clear Metal is applicable.
Caution and contraindications
The formula is obviously only for acute invasions of Wind-Cold at the initial stage when
the Wind-Cold is on the Exterior. It is therefore contraindicated for any condition that is
not exterior and not caused by Wind-Cold. The essential symptoms of Wind-Cold
invasion are shivering, sneezing, runny nose and a floating pulse. This pill is usually
used only for a few days. After this time, either the Wind-Cold will have been expelled
completely and require no further treatment, or it will have progressed into the Interior,
changing into interior Heat, in which case a different formula is needed.
Classical antecedent: Jing Fang Jie Biao Tang (Schizonepeta-Ledebouriella Releasing
the Exterior Decoction).
Remedy in a nutshell: acute invasion of Wind-Cold.
Timing of administration: Take after meals, ideally with a hot ginger infusion.
EXPEL WIND-HEAT
Bo He Herba Menthae haplocalycis
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Dan Dou Chi Semen Sojae preparatum
Dan Zhu Ye Herba Lophatheri
Jing Jie Herba Schizonepetae
Jin Yin Hua Flos Lonicerae
Lian Qiao Fructus Forsythiae
Jie Geng Radix Platycodi
Gan Cao Radix Glycyrrhizae
Niu Bang Zi Fructus Arctii
Fang Feng Radix Saposhnikoviae
Da Qing Ye Folium Isatidis
Ju Hua Flos Chrysanthemi
Xing Ren Semen Armeniacae
Huang Qin Radix Scutellariae
Pattern: Invasion of Wind-Heat at the Defensive-Qi level.
Action: Release the Exterior, expel Wind-Heat.
Indications: Aversion to cold, shivering, fever, body aches, headache, slight thirst,
cough, sneezing, runny nose with slightly yellow discharge, sore throat, swollen tonsils,
swollen glands, mumps, colds, influenza, hay fever.
Tongue: Red on the sides or front part.
Pulse: Floating-rapid.
Explanation
Expel Wind-Heat is a variation of the classical prescription Yin Qiao San (LoniceraForsythia Powder). This variation expels Wind-Heat and releases the Exterior; it deals in
particular with the symptoms of sore throat, headache and body aches. The formula is used
only for the exterior stage of an invasion of Wind-Heat.
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If the disease progresses to the Qi Level with a chest infection and cough, then the
remedy Ringing Metal or Clear Metal is applicable.
Caution and contraindications
The formula is obviously only for acute invasions of Wind-Cold at the initial stage when
the Wind-Cold is on the Exterior. It is therefore contraindicated for any condition that is
not exterior and not caused by Wind-Cold. The essential symptoms of Wind-Cold
invasion are shivering, sneezing, runny nose and a floating pulse. This pill is usually
used only for a few days. After this time, either the Wind-Cold will have been expelled
completely and require no further treatment, or it will have progressed into the Interior,
changing into interior Heat, in which case a different formula is needed.
Classical antecedent: Yin Qiao San (Lonicera-Forsythia Powder).
Remedy in a nutshell: acute invasion of Wind-Cold.
Timing of administration: Take after meals.
FREEING THE SUN
Bo He Herba Menthae haplocalycis
Chai Hu Radix Bupleuri
Dang Gui Radix Angelica sinensis
Bai Shao Radix Paeoniae alba
Bai Zhu Rhizoma Atractylodis macrocephalae
Fu Ling Poria
Shan Zhi Zhi Fructus Gardeniae
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Mu Dan Pi Cortex Moutan
Xiang Fu Rhizoma Cyperi
He Huan Pi Cortex Albiziae
Suan Zao Ren Semen Ziziphi spinosae
Gan Cao Radix Glycyrrhizae
Da Zao Fructus Jujubae
Pattern: Liver-Qi stagnation, Liver-Heat (deriving from longterm Qi stagnation), Blood
deficiency, Spleen-Qi deficiency.
Action: Move Qi, pacify the Liver, nourish Blood, tonify Spleen-Qi, clear Liver-Heat,
calm the Mind, settle the Hun.
Indications: Anxiety, worry, depression, hypochondrial, epigastric or abdominal
distension, poor digestion, abdominal distension and pain, constipation, loose stools,
alternation of constipation and loose stools, insomnia, dream-disturbed sleep, headaches,
slight thirst, feeling of heat, slight bitter taste.
Tongue: Red sides.
Pulse: Wiry, rapid.
Explanation
This formula is a variation of Dan Zhi Xiao Yao San which itself is a variation of Xiao
Yao San Free and Easy Wanderer Powder with the addition of Mu Dan Pi and Shan Zhi Zi
to clear Liver-Heat. This formula is specific to clear Liver-Heat deriving from Liver-Qi
stagnation. I have modified the formula with the addition of herbs to open the Mind’s
orifices and calm the Mind and the Ethereal Soul (Hun). This pattern is more common in
men suffering from long-standing Liver-Qi stagnation (deriving from emotional problems)
leading to some Liver-Heat. This formula could be described as a men's Freeing the Moon
(which is also a variation of Xiao Yao San).
Bo He, Chai Hu, Dang Gui, Bai Shao, Bai Zhu and Fu Ling constitute the formula
Xiao Yao San which moves Qi and pacifies the Liver. Shan Zhi Zi and Mu Dan Pi clear
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Liver-Heat deriving from long-term LiverQi stagnation. Xiang Fu was added to move Qi
and pacify the Liver. He Huan Pi calms the Mind, settles the Ethereal Soul and moves
Liver-Qi: it relieves irritability and depression. Suan Zao Ren calms the Mind, nourishes
the Liver and Heart and settles the Ethereal Soul. Gan Cao and Hei Zao harmonize.
Mental-emotional pattern
Key word: Reconciliation.
The pattern addressed by this formula, Liver-Qi stagnation, is typically caused by
repressed anger, frustration, resentment or worry. This person may find it difficult to
express anger appropriately, i.e. they may avoid expressing it when they have suffered an
abuse as they tend to shy away from conflict, or they may "fly off the handle" at the
smallest aggravation. They may oscillate between these two responses. Usually when
anger is expressed it gives rise to Liver-Yang rising while, when it is repressed, it causes
Liver-Qi stagnation. This patient is typically a man who is either irritable and prone to
bouts of anger or he will appear depressed and subdued but the Wiry pulse betrays the
pattern of Liver-Qi stagnation caused by anger. Long-term stagnation of Liver-Qi may
give rise to Heat in the Liver which will cause the person also to become anxious and
restless. However, this remedy is often applicable to women too.
Caution and contraindications
None.
Classical antecedent: Dan Zhi Xiao Yao San (Moutan-Gardenia Free and Easy
Wanderer Powder)
Remedy in a nutshell: Liver-Qi stagnation with Heat deriving from emotional stress.
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GLORIOUS SEA
Dang Gui Radix Angelicae sinensis
Shou Wu Radix Polygoni multiflori preparata
Gou Qi Zi Fructus Lycii
Bai Xian Pi Cortex Dictamni
Mu Dan Pi Cortex Moutan
Huang Qin Radix Scutellariae
Tu Si Zi Semen Cuscutae
Sheng Di Huang Radix Rehmanniae
Ze Xie Rhizoma Alismatis
Fu Ling Poria
Gan Cao Radix Glycyrrhizae
Pattern: Liver-Blood deficiency, Dampness in the skin, slight Blood Heat.
Action: Nourish Liver-Blood, tonify the Kidneys, nourish the skin, resolve Dampness, cool
Blood.
Indications: Sallow complexion without "shen", dry skin, dry rashes, skin spots, itching, dry hair
and nails.
Explanation
Glorious Sea nourishes Liver-Blood with particular influence on the skin and hair. It could be
considered a variation of Si Wu Tang.
Dang Gui, Shou Wu and Gou Qi Zi nourish Liver-Blood (Gou Qi Zi also tonifies the
Kidneys). Sheng Di Huang and Tu Si Zi nourish Kidney-Yin and tonify Kidney-Yang
respectively.
Bai Xian Pi resolves Dampness, clears Heat and clears toxic Heat with a specific affinity to
the skin. Huang Qin, Ze Xie and Fu Ling resolve Dampness and Damp-Heat and therefore
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eliminate Dampness from the skin. Mu Dan Pi clears Liver-Heat and it also has an effect on the
skin when this is affected by Liver-Heat: it also cools Blood. Gan Cao harmonizes.
Mental-emotional pattern
Key words: Returning Home.
Liver-Blood houses the Hun (Ethereal Soul). The Hun is responsible for plans, ideas,
inspiration, life-dreams, creativity. The Hun likes “movement”: on a psychological level, this
movement gives the Shen the above-mentioned attributes, i.e. plans, life-dreams, etc. When the
movement of the Hun is excessive, the person may become anxious or mildly “manic”. I am
using “manic” in a lesser sense that the mania of full-blown bipolar disorder. This lesser state of
mania may manifest in a person who makes many plans which many not come to fruition, with a
certain hyperactivity (of adults), a tendency to spend too much, laughing a lot and anxiety.
Blood is the “mother of Qi” but also is part of Yin. When Blood deficiency is associated
with Qi deficiency, the movement of the Hun is deficient and the person is depressed. When
Blood deficiency tends towards Yin deficiency, the person will be “manic” (in the sense
explained above) and anxious. The remedy Glorious Sea is for this second situation, i.e. a person
who is slightly manic (in the sense explained above) and anxious.
The remedy addresses skin problems with Blood deficiency and Blood-Heat and therefore
skin rashes that are red and dry. Such skin rashes often have an emotional component: the
excessive movement of the Hun is also affected by Blood-Heat as Heat agitates the Hun.
Therefore skin rashes are often a frequent outward manifestation of the Hun pathology.
Liver-Blood deficiency affects women more than men and, when I see a woman patient for
the first time, as soon as they sit down, I look at the eyes (to observe whether they have shen or
not) and at the hair: dry hair often indicates Blood deficiency. If the hair is dry and the eyes lack
shen, then that is a strong indication that she is under considerable emotional stress.
Caution and contraindications
No particular contraindications are associated with this remedy.
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Remedy in a nutshell: Liver-Blood deficiency and Blood-Heat affecting skin and hair.
HARMONIZE THE CENTRE
Ren Shen Radix Ginseng
Huang Qi Radix Astragali
Bai Zhu Rhizoma Atractylodis macrocephalae
Shan Yao Rhizoma Dioscoreae
Tian Hua Fen Radix Trichosanthis
Yu Zhu Rhizoma Polygonati odorati
Zhi Mu Rhizoma Anemarrhenae
Fu Ling Poria
Ge Gen Radix Puerariae
Huang Jing Rhizoma Polygonati
Gou Qi Zi Fructus Lycii)
Shan Zhu Yu Fructus Corni
Ban Xia Rhizoma Pinelliae preparatum
Chen Pi Pericarpium Citri reticulatae
Cang Zhu Rhizoma Atractylodis
Dan Shen Radix Salviae miltiorrhizae
Pattern: Stomach- and Spleen-Qi deficiency, Stomach-Yin deficiency, Phlegm, Liver and
Kidney deficiency, Blood stasis.
Action: tonify Qi and Yin of Stomach and Spleen, resolve Dampness, nourish Liver and
Kidneys, resolve Phlegm, invigorate Blood.
Indications: Poor appetite, poor digestion, obesity, epigastric distension and fullness, tiredness.
Tongue: with rootless coating, completely without coating or without coating in the centre,
Stomach crack.
Pulse: Weak or Floating-Empty on the right-Middle position.
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Explanation
Harmonize the Centre is a variation of Shen Ling Bai Zhu San (Ginseng-Poria-Atractylodes
Powder) which tonifies Qi and Yin of Stomach and Spleen and resolves Dampness. The
prescription has been modified to also resolve Phlegm. In particular, it has been modified to
lower blood sugar and treat Type II diabetes.
Ren Shen, Huang Qi, Bai Zhu and Shan Yao tonify Stomach- and Spleen-Qi; Shan Yao also
mildly nourishes Stomach-Yin. Tian Hua Fen, Yu Zhu and Zhi Mu clear Stomach-Empty EmptyHeat and nourish Stomach-Yin.
Ge Gen clears Heat and promotes fluids. Fu Ling, Chen Pi Cang Zhu and Ban Xia resolve
Dampness and Phlegm. Huang Jing, Gou Qi Zi and Shan Zhu Yu nourish Liver and Kidneys.
Dan Shen invigorates Blood.
Mental-emotional pattern
Key words: Return to the Centre
Harmonize the Centre has a complex action but its core action is to strengthen the Centre and
the Middle Burner, i.e. the Earth element. This person has literally lost his or her centre through a
combination of irregular diet over many years and emotional problems related to nurturing. This
could be due to having had to look after the other members of the family to the detriment of
herself or himself. Often these people giving all of themselves in the family to compensate for
having lacked nurturing themselves as children.
Caution and contraindications
There are no particular contraindications for this remedy.
Classical antecedent: Shen Ling Bai Zhu San (Ginseng-Poria-Atractylodes Powder).
Remedy in a nutshell: tonify Stomach and Spleen, resolve Phlegm, treat type II diabetes.
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HERBAL SENTINEL - YANG
Huang Qi Radix Astragali
Ren Shen Radix Ginseng
Ling Zhi Ganoderma
Bai Zhu Rhizoma Atractylodis macrocephalae
Fang Feng Radix Saposhnikoviae
Gui Zhi Ramulus Cinnamomi
Bai Shao Radix Paeoniae alba
Sheng Jiang Rhizoma Zingiberis recens
Da Zao Fructus Jujubae
Zhi Gan Cao Radix Glycyrrhizae preparata
Tu Si Zi Semen Cuscutae
Du Zhong Cortex Eucommiae
Ba Ji Tian Radix Morindae officinalis
Wu Wei Zi Fructus Schisandrae
Fu Ling Poria
Huang Qin Radix Scutellariae
Yu Zhu Rhizoma Polygonati odorati
Pattern: Deficiency of Lung-, Spleen- and Kidney-Qi.
Action: Tonify Lung- and Spleen-Qi, consolidate the Exterior, strengthen the Kidneys,
bolster the Defensive-Qi.
Indications: Propensity to catching colds, tiredness, feeling cold, depression,
frequent-pale urination, cold limbs, slight shortness of breath, poor appetite, loose
stools, slight abdominal distension after eating, spontaneous sweating, weak voice,
lower backache, low libido, allergic rhinitis, allergic asthma.
Tongue: Pale or slightly pale.
Pulse: Generally weak or empty. It may be weak only on the right side.
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Explanation
The two Herbal Sentinel formulae are designed to tonify the vital force and strengthen
the immune system, thus raising resistance to disease. The present formula is for people
suffering from a deficiency of Yang of the Lungs, Spleen and Kidneys. However, this
formula is meant to be used as a preventive against invasion of external Wind. Thus, it
can also be used for those who do not have pronounced symptoms of Yang deficiency of
the above organs but simply a tendency or a constitutional propensity towards such
deficiency. Provided the tongue is pale and the person has some symptoms of Yang
deficiency, this formula is applicable.
As for allergic rhinitis and asthma, the formula is also preventive rather than a
curative. It should be taken either after the condition has been cured or when the
condition is in a chronic stage and the asthma attacks are slight and infrequent;
acupuncture treatment aimed at restoring the descending and diffusing of Lung-Qi should
be given in conjunction with the formula.
This is a new formula but it contains elements of classic formulae such as the “Jade
Wind-Screen Powder” (Yu Ping Feng San) to tonify Lung-Qi and Defensive-Qi and
consolidate the Exterior, and “Ramulus Cinnamomi Decoction” (Gui Zhi Tang) to
harmonize Defensive- and Nutritive-Qi. Besides Lung and Spleen tonics such as Ren
Shen, the formula contains Kidney-Yang tonics such as Tu Si Zi, Du Zhong and Ba Ji
Tian because Kidney-Yang is the foundation of Defensive-Qi and therefore of resistance
to pathogenic factors. Huang Qin and Yu Zhu have been added to counterbalance the hot
energy of the other herbs and protect the Yin from being injured by them.
Herbal Sentinel - Yang can also be used as a general protector of the immune system
and to prevent disease. In this case, its dosage can be increased during autumn and winter
and decreased during spring and summer.
Mental-emotional pattern
Key word: Vitality.
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Just as on a physical level this formula strengthens the Defensive-Qi, on a mental
level it lifts moods and can be used for mental depression and lack of self-assertion. The
patient may also be easily influenced by other people's psychic influences and negativity.
Caution and contraindications
Provided the patient suffers from a constitutional Yang deficiency and the tongue is pale,
this formula can be used in a low dose for long periods of time.
Remedy in a nutshell: strengthen immune defence in people with a tendency to Yang
deficiency.
Timing of administration: Take a higher dose in the morning.
HERBAL SENTINEL - YIN
Huang Qi Radix Astragali
Ling Zhi Ganoderma
Wu Wei Zi Fructus Schisandrae
Mai Men Dong Radix Ophiopogonis
Bei Sha Shen Radix Glehniae
Bai He Bulbus Lilii
Yu Zhu Rhizoma Polygonati odorati
Shu Di Huang Radix Rehmanniae preparata
Shan Zhu Yu Fructus Corni
Shan Yao Rhizoma Dioscoreae
Da Zao Fructus Jujubae
Zhi Gan Cao Radix Glycyrrhizae preparata
Zhi Mu Rhizoma Anemarrhenae
Fu Ling Poria
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Pattern: Deficiency of Lung-, Spleen- and Kidney-Qi, deficiency of Yin.
Action: Tonify Lung-Qi, strengthen the Kidneys, nourish Yin, consolidate the
Exterior, bolster Defensive-Qi.
Indications: Propensity to catching colds, lower backache, night-sweating, feeling
of heat in the evening, tiredness, poor appetite, weak voice, spontaneous sweating,
dizziness, tinnitus, allergic rhinitis, allergic asthma.
Tongue: Red without coating or with rootless coating. It may be red only in the
centre or front part. It may also be only slightly red with a rootless coating.
Pulse: Floating-empty or fine.
Explanation
This is a new formula containing Lung- and Spleen-Qi tonics such as Huang Qi to
strengthen the Defensive-Qi and consolidate the Exterior. There are Lung-Yin and
Stomach-Yin nourishing herbs such as Wu Wei Zi, Mai Men Dong, Bei Sha Shen, Bai
He, Yu Zhu. Zhi Mu was added to clear any Empty-Heat that there might be; it also
nourishes Yin. Fu Ling is added to counteract any Dampness generated by the Yinnourishing herbs.
Like the Herbal Sentinel - Yang, this formula is designed to tonify Zheng Qi and
strengthen the immune system, thus raising resistance to disease. The present formula is
for people suffering from a deficiency of Yin and Qi of the Lungs, Spleen and Kidneys.
However, the formula is meant to be used as a preventive against invasion of external
Wind. Thus it can also be used for those who do not have pronounced symptoms of Yin
deficiency of the above organs but simply a tendency or a constitutional propensity
towards such deficiency. Provided the tongue lack a coating or has a rootless coating and
the person has some slight symptoms of Yin deficiency, the formula is applicable.
As for allergic rhinitis and asthma indicated above, the formula is a preventive rather
than curative. It should be taken only after the condition has been cured or is in its
chronic stage when the asthma attacks are very slight and infrequent; this can be done in
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conjunction with an acupuncture treatment aimed at restoring the descent and diffusion
of Lung-Qi.
Herbal Sentinel - Yin can also be used as a general protector of the immune system
and to prevent disease. In this case, its dosage should be increased during autumn and
winter and decreased during spring and summer.
Mental-emotional pattern
Key word: Empowerment.
The formula is similar to Herbal Sentinel - Yang. It strengthens the Defensive-Qi on a
physical level; it also lifts mood and can be used for mental depression and lack of selfassertion on a mental level. The patient may also be easily influenced by other people’s
psychic influences and negativity.
In addition to the mental-emotional symptoms described in the section on Herbal
Sentinel - Yang, there will also be vague anxiety, insomnia and poor memory.
Caution and contraindications
There is no specific contraindication other than that the formula should be used only if
the person has some clear signs of at least a tendency to Yin deficiency as explained
above. In a low dose, it can be used for long periods of time.
Remedy in a nutshell: strengthen immune defence in people with a tendency to
Yang deficiency.
Timing of administration: Take a higher dose in the evening.
INVIGORATE THE ROOT
Du Huo Radix Angelicae pubescentis
Sang Ji Sheng Herba Taxilli
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Fang Feng Radix Saposhnikoviae
Qin Jiao Radix Gentianae macrophyllae
Du Zhong Cortex Eucommiae
Huai Niu Xi Radix Achyranthis bidentatae
Gui Zhi Ramulus Cinnamomi
Dang Gui Radix Angelicae sinensis
Chuan Xiong Rhizoma Chuanxiong
Sheng Di Huang Radix Rehmanniae
Bai Shao Radix Paeoniae alba
Ren Shen Radix Ginseng
Fu Ling Poria
Zhi Gan Cao Radix Glycyrrhizae preparata
Qiang Huo Rhizoma seu Radix Notopterygii
Hai Tong Pi Cortex Erythrinae
Wei Ling Xian Radix Clematidis
Pattern: Wind-Dampness in the channels, Spleen-Qi deficiency, Blood deficiency, Kidney-Yang
deficiency.
Action: Expel Wind and resolve Dampness from the channels, tonify Kidney-Yang, tonify
Spleen-Qi, nourish Blood.
Indications: This remedy is for Bi Syndrome from Wind and Dampness in the channels
occurring against a background of Kidney-Yang deficiency, Spleen-Qi deficiency and Blood
deficiency. The main symptoms and signs are chronic backache that is aggravated by exposure to
cold and dampness and alleviated by the application of heat, pain in the joints with no swelling or
slight swelling, knee-ache, dizziness, tinnitus, tiredness, feeling cold, frequent urination, pale
urine, lack of will-power, a feeling of cold in the back and knees, weak knees, blurred vision,
tingling of limbs, constipation, poor digestion.
Tongue: Pale.
Pulse: Deep, Weak.
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Explanation
This formula, a variation of Du Huo Ji Sheng Tang Angelica pubescentis-Loranthus
Decoction, expels Wind and Dampness from the channels occurring against a background
of KidneyYang, Blood and Spleen-Qi deficiency. It treats primarily afflictions of the lower
back, legs and knees.
Du Huo and Sang Ji Sheng expel Wind-Dampness from the channels, nourish the Liver
and Kidneys and benefit sinews and bones. Fang Feng expels Wind; Qin Jiao, Hai Tong Pi
and Hai Feng Teng expel Wind-Dampness from the channels. Du Zhong and Huai Niu Xi
tonify the Kidneys and Liver and strengthen the lower back. Gui Zhi expels Cold and
enters the channels facilitating the expulsion of Wind. Dang Gui Shen, Chuan Xiong,
Sheng Di Huang and Bai Shao are a modified Si Wu Tang (with the substitution of Shu Di
Huang by Sheng Di Huang) and nourish and harmonize Blood which helps to expel Wind.
Ji Lin Bai Ren Shen Fu Ling Poria and Zhi Gan Cao tonify Qi and expel Dampness. Qiang
Huo expels Wind-Dampness from the top part of the body.
Mental-emotional pattern
Key words: Inner Strength.
The primary Root pattern addressed by this remedy is Kidney-Yang deficiency while
the main Manifestation pattern is Wind-Dampness in the channels of the lower part of the
body. Thus, the root, i.e. the Kidneys, are on the one hand weak, and on the other,
encumbered by Wind and Dampness. A person suffering from these patterns will feel
exhausted, weighed-down, despondent and lacking will-power. They may be anxious or
even fearful and find it hard to take in any reassurance.
Caution and contraindications
This remedy treats both the Root (Ben) and the Manifestation (Biao) of chronic Bi
Syndrome and is therefore suitable for long-term administration. However, it is always a
good precaution to interrupt the use of a remedy for 1 or 2 months if it used continuously
for over a year.
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This remedy is contraindicated in pregnancy.
Classical antecedent: Du Huo Ji Sheng Tang (Angelica pubescentis-Ramulus Sangjisheng
Decoction).
Remedy in a nutshell: chronic Bi Syndrome of lower part of body against a background of
Kidney-Yang deficiency.
JADE SCREEN
Xin Yi Hua Flos Magnoliae
Fang Feng Radix Saposhnikoviae
Huang Qi Radix Astragali
Bai Zhu Rhizoma Atractylodis macrocephalae
Bai Zhi Radix Angelicae dahuricae
Wu Mei Fructus Mume
Wu Wei Zi Fructus Schisandrae
Dan Shen Radix Salviae miltiorrhizae
Bo He Herba Menthae haplocalycis
Jing Jie Herba Schizonepetae
Huang Qin Radix Scutellariae
Gan Cao Radix Glycyrrhizae
Bai Qian Rhizoma Cynanchi stautonii
Jie Geng Radix Platycodi
Gan Jiang Rhizoma Zingiberis
Pattern: Wind impairing the descending and diffusing of Lung-Qi in the nose.
Action: Expel Wind, tonify Qi, strengthen Defensive-Qi, anti-allergy.
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Indications: Allergic rhinitis, sneezing, runny nose with a clear-watery discharge, itchy eyes and
nose, dull soreness on the forehead, blocked nose, hay fever, allergy to cats, dogs, horses, dust
mites, dust, chronic sinusitis (only if secondary to rhinitis).
Explanation
Jade Screen is a new formula specifically designed to treat the manifestations of allergic
rhinitis. The problem is becoming more and more common, partly because of an
increasing genetic predisposition to allergy and partly through heavy atmospheric
pollution in cities. Although this formula contains the classical prescription "Jade WindScreen Decoction" (Yu Ping Feng San), its main emphasis is not on tonification but on
expelling Wind and restoring the diffusion of Lung-Qi to stop sneezing and nasal
discharge. In addition to herbs which expel Wind and target the nose, there are three
herbs which are included for their anti-allergy effect: Dan Shen, Wu Wei Zi and Wu Mei.
A deficiency of the Kidneys is often at the root of atopy (the tendency to allergic
diseases such as atopic eczema, allergic asthma and allergic rhinitis). The formula is
aimed primarily at treating the Manifestation (i.e. Wind in the nose) rather than the
Root. To treat the Manifestation and the Root simultaneously, the formula could be
combined with the Herbal Sentinel (Yang or Yin).
It should be stressed here that the formula is not for sinusitis. It treats sinusitis and
sinus congestion only when this is secondary to rhinitis. This happens when, owing to
the blockage of the nasal passages by the nasal discharge typical of rhinitis, drainage
from the sinuses is impaired and a secondary infection sets in. In such a case, the nasal
discharge would be yellow only occasionally. If the sinusitis is primary, the formula is
not suitable. Unlike the formula Welcome Fragrance (which is for sinusitis), Jade
Screen is primarily for allergic rhinitis (characterized by a clear-watery nasal discharge).
Welcome Fragrance, on the other hand, is primarily for chronic sinusitis with a thick or
purulent yellow nasal discharge.
Mental-emotional pattern
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Key words: Self-assertion.
The patient will feel depressed and tired and will be an easy prey to external psychic
influences. He or she will lack self-assertion and will be confused about life's issues.
Caution and contraindications
The formula contains some pungent herbs which may damage Yin and some bitter herbs
which may weaken the Spleen if used over a long period of time. It should not therefore
be used for longer than a few months at a stretch. Alternatively, if it is prescribed in
conjunction with acupuncture treatment, attention could be paid to tonifying the Spleen
and nourishing Yin with acupuncture.
Remedy in a nutshell: to treat the symptoms of allergic rhinitis.
Timing of administration: Take after meals.
JADE SPRING
Bei Sha Shen Radix Glehniae
Mai Men Dong Radix Ophiopogonis
Yu Zhu Rhizoma Polygonati odorati
Gan Cao Radix Glycyrrhizae
Sang Ye Folium Mori
Bian Dou Semen lab album
Tian Hua Fen Radix Trichosanthis
Lu Gen Rhizoma Phragmatis
Tai Zi Shen Radix Pseudostellariae
Dang Shen Radix Codonopsis
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Fu Ling Poria
Zhi Mu Rhizoma Anemarrhenae
Shan Yao Rhizoma Dioscoreae
Pattern: Stomach-Yin deficiency, Spleen-Yin deficiency, Lung-Yin deficiency,
Stomach Empty-Heat.
Action: Nourish Stomach-, Spleen- and Lung-Yin, clear Stomach Empty-Heat.
Indications: Excessive hunger, dry mouth, desire to drink in small sips, dry lips,
tiredness, mental restlessness, poor digestion, slight burning epigastric pain, mouth
ulcers, dry stools, circumscribed skin rashes on the front of the leg, diabetes.
Tongue: Dry, either no coating or rootless coating in the centre, Stomach crack in the
midline or scattered small cracks; it may be slightly red in the centre.
Pulse: Floating-empty on the right middle position.
Explanation
Jade Spring (the word “spring” referring to a source of water, rather than the season)
nourishes Stomach-, Spleen- and Lung-Yin and it clears Stomach-Empty Heat. The
tongue is an important sign for the use of this remedy: it will be a tongue either
completely or partially without coating. It may also be red if there is Empty Heat,
but, as Yin deficiency may occur without Empty Heat, the tongue body colour may
not be red. The essential sign is that the coating is lacking (totally or partially). If
there is a coating (or even worse if the coating is thick), then this is not the right
remedy.
Bei Sha Shen, Mai Men Dong, Yu Zhu and Tai Zi Shen nourish Stomach- Spleenand Lung-Yin. Bian Dou nourishes Spleen-Yin. Tian Hua Fen, Zhi Mu and Lu Gen
clear Stomach Heat. Shan Yao and Dang Shen tonify Qi of Stomach and Spleen. Sang
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Ye makes Lung-Qi descend and it has been added in case of cough from Lung-Yin
deficiency.
Mental-emotional pattern
Key word: Finding One’s Centre
Yin is the root of the Shen and the Hun. When Yin is deficient, the Shen and Hun
become restless causing insomnia and anxiety. Moreover, the Stomach and Spleen
are the “centre” also in a mental-emotional level providing us with a strong core that
simultaneously makes us look after other and oneself.
When Stomach- andSpleen-Yin are deficient, the Shen and Hun will be beset by
anxiety and the person will lack a “centre”, feeling lonely and disoriented.
Caution and contraindications
As indicated above, the tongue must be without coating: if there is a coating, this is
not the right remedy. Yin tonics tend to be “sticky” and may injure the Spleen but
this would happen only after long-term use (months).
Classical antecedent: Sha Shen Mai Dong Tang (Glehnia-Ophiopogon Decoction).
Remedy in a nutshell: Stomach-Yin deficiency.
LIMPID SEA
Ban Xia Rhizoma Pinelliae preparatum
Fu Ling Poria
Chen Pi Pericarpium Citri reticulatae
Gan Cao Radix Glycyrrhizae
Da Zao Fructus Jujubae
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Wu Mei Fructus Mume
Zhu Ru Caulis Bambusae in Taeniam
Gua Lou Fructus Trichosanthis
Gan Jiang Rhizoma Zingiberis
Pattern: Phlegm (damp, cold or hot) in the Middle and Upper Burner.
Action: Dry Dampness and resolve Phlegm.
Indications: Cough with abundant sputum, catarrh in the chest, nose or throat, white
or yellow sputum, a feeling of oppression of the chest, nausea, vomiting, palpitations,
dizziness, insomnia, lipomas.
Tongue: Pale, swollen with a sticky-white coating in case of Damp or Cold-Phlegm, or
red, swollen with a sticky-yellow coating in case of Hot-Phlegm.
Pulse: Slippery and slow in case of Cold-Phlegm, or Slippery and rapid in case of HotPhlegm.
Explanation
This formula is a variation of Er Chen Tang Two Old Decoction which is the classical
formula to dry Dampness and resolve Phlegm. This formula can be used as a general
formula to dry Dampness and resolve Phlegm in many different locations of the body and
with many different manifestations. The original formula is the classical formula for the
Damp-Phlegm variety of Phlegm, i.e. Phlegm combined with or deriving from Dampness
and manifesting with abundant, sticky sputum that is easy to expectorate. The formula
has been modified to resolve also Hot-Phlegm and Cold-Phlegm. The latter differs from
Damp-Phlegm in so far as there are more Cold symptoms and the sputum is white and
watery rather than sticky and viscid.
Ban Xia, Fu Ling, and Chen Pi form the nucleus of the original prescription: Ban Xia
resolves Phlegm, subdues Qi and harmonizes the Middle Burner; Chen Pi dries
Dampness and harmonizes the Middle Burner; Fu Ling drains Dampness. Gan Cao and
Da Zao harmonize, while Wu Mei generates fluids to counterbalance the drying effect of
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the formula. Zhu Ru and Gua Lou were added to resolve hot Phlegm, while Gan Jiang
was added to resolve Cold-Phlegm.
The chief manifestation that indicates the use of this formula is the presence of
obvious sputum which may be in the chest, nose or throat. Phlegm may also manifest in
other ways such as soft lumps under the skin, and this is another indication for the use of
this formula (although such lumps under the skin, lipomas, are unlikely to be dispersed
by the use of this formula). The nausea, vomiting and feeling of oppression of the chest
are typical manifestations deriving from the obstruction of the Middle Burner by Phlegm:
as Phlegm obstructs the Middle Burner it prevents the proper ascending and descending
of Qi in the Centre and nausea and vomiting ensue since Stomach-Qi cannot descend.
The palpitations here are due not to a Heart pathology but to the obstruction of the chest
by Phlegm. The dizziness is due to the obstruction of the head's clear orifices by Phlegm.
There will be insomnia if Phlegm is accompanied by Heat.
It is important to understand that this formula treats only the Manifestation, i.e. it
resolves Phlegm and dries Dampness but it does not treat the Root that is always SpleenQi or Spleen-Yang deficiency. For this reason, this formula can be combined with Soothe
the Centre or Prosperous Earth, as Limpid Sea will treat the Manifestation and Soothe
the Centre or Prosperous Earth the Root.
Mental-emotional pattern
Key word: Clarity.
Just as easily as Phlegm obstructs the Middle Burner, it obstructs the Mind and
clouds the head's orifices, preventing the rising of clear Yang to the head. On a mentalemotional level, this causes obfuscation of the Mind, confusion, lack of clarity of
thought, and disorientation. This will cause the person to be confused about his or her
life's issues so that the Mind is caught up in a vicious circle of bewildering thoughts and
hesitation. In very severe cases of obstruction of the Mind by Phlegm, the person's
mental-emotional state may border on psychotic behaviour. If Phlegm is accompanied by
Heat, the mental-emotional manifestations will differ in so far as while Phlegm obstructs
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the Mind, Heat harasses and agitates the Mind. The person will therefore still display the
typical confusion as described above, but will also be agitated and anxious. Again, in a
severe case of Phlegm-Heat, the person's behaviour may border on manic.
Caution and contraindications
This formula is definitely drying and should therefore not be used if the patient suffers
from Yin deficiency or even just the beginning of it. It is therefore not suitable if the
tongue is peeled or has a rootless coating. Since this formula treats only the
Manifestation of Phlegm, it is not suitable for long-term administration: it should be
used for short periods (not more than a few months), after which it should be followed by
the administration of a formula that tonifies the Spleen, such as Soothe the Centre to
treat the Root. Alternatively, these two formulae may be used together. Acupuncturists
could use this formula to treat the Manifestation of Phlegm and acupuncture to treat the
Root by tonifying the Spleen with points such as ST-36 Zusanli, SP-3 Taibai, BL-20
Pishu and BL 21 Weishu.
Classical antecedent: Er Chen Tang (Two Old Decoction)
Remedy in a nusthell: resolve Phlegm.
NOURISH THE ROOT
Sheng Di Huang Radix Rehmanniae
Shan Yao Rhizoma Dioscoreae
Shan Zhu Yu Fructus Corni
Gou Qi Zi Fructus Lycii
Huai Niu Xi Radix Achyranthis bidentatae
Tu Si Zi Semen Cuscutae
Mai Men Dong Radix Ophiopogonis
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Huang Jing Rhizoma Polygonati
Zhi Gan Cao Radix Glycyrrhizae preparata
Ze Xie Rhizoma Alismatis
Tian Men Dong Radix Asparagi
Di Gu Pi Cortex Lycii
Pattern: Kidney-Yin deficiency.
Action: Nourish Kidney-Yin and Essence, strengthen the will-power (Zhi).
Indications: Dizziness, tinnitus, sore back and legs, night-sweating, dry mouth and
throat in the evening, feeling of heat and vague anxiety in the evening, 5-palm heat (a
feeling of heat in palms, chest and soles), thirst with desire to drink in small sips,
exhaustion, depression, dry stools, lower backache, infertility, insomnia (waking up
during the night), blurred vision, dry skin and hair, dryness of the vagina, dry eyes,
thin body, scanty-dark urine.
Tongue: This could range from a nearly normal-coloured body (tending to red) with
rootless coating to a red body without any coating at all, depending on the degree of
Yin deficiency and Empty-Heat. The less the coating, the deeper the Yin deficiency,
and the redder the tongue body, the stronger the Empty-Heat.
Pulse: Floating-Empty, or weak on both rear positions and relatively overflowing on
both front ones, or fine and rapid if there is pronounced Empty-Heat.
Explanation
Nourish the Root is a variation of the ‘Restoring the Left [Kidney] Pill” (Zuo Gui Wan)
prescription to nourish Kidney-Yin. This was chosen as the main formula to nourish
Kidney-Yin as, on the basis of clinical experience, it is better suited to Western patients
than the more famous Liu Wei Di Huang Wan (Six-Ingredient Rehmannia Pill) because it
tends also to nourish Blood (with Gou Qi Zi) and it strengthens the back and KidneyYang as well with Huai Niu Xi.
It is suitable for an extremely wide range of problems, provided the underlying
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pattern is Kidney-Yin deficiency. If there is very pronounced Empty-Heat, however,
consider using the formula Ease the Journey - Yin instead. Although the latter is
primarily intended for treating menopausal problems occurring against a background of
Kidney-Yin deficiency, its use is not restricted to women: it can be used for patients of
either sex and any age provided the presenting pattern is one of deficiency of Kidney-Yin
evidenced by a tongue without coating; if there is Empty Heat, the tongue would be red.
The possible causes of this condition are overwork (in the sense of working long hours
without adequate rest for years), irregular diet, emotional stress and, in women, bearing
too many children too close together (which is not common in Western countries); in
men, excessive sexual activity may also contribute to Kidney deficiency.
Nourish the Root can be used for complex conditions characterized by a deficiency of
both Kidney-Yin and Kidney-Yang. Such conditions occur frequently, especially in
women. The manifestations might be, for example, dizziness, tinnitus, night-sweating,
feeling of heat in the evening, hot flushes, cold hands and feet and frequent-pale
urination. However, it should be stressed that this formula should be used only when the
deficiency of Kidney-Yin predominates over that of Kidney-Yang and the tongue
therefore tends towards being red.
Mental-emotional pattern
Key words: The Denied Self.
The formula nourishes Liver- and Kidney-Yin. Its emphasis is on strengthening the
sinews and bones, and the tissues related to Liver and Kidneys respectively. Niu Xi has
this function in the prescription. There is a correlation between the physical aspect of
strengthening sinews and bones with herbs which act on the Liver and Kidneys, and the
strengthening of the Ethereal Soul (Hun) and Will-Power (Zhi) related to these organs.
The Ethereal Soul resides in the Liver and is responsible for vision, planning, sense of
direction. The Will-Power resides in the Kidneys and controls drive, enthusiasm and
spirit of initiative. When the Yin of the Liver and Kidneys is deficient, the Ethereal Soul
is deprived of its root and the Will-Power is weak. This results in depression and
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exhaustion characterized by lack of a sense of direction, aimlessness and loss of drive
and will-power. In the same way that there is physical stiffness in the back, this person
may tend to be rather rigid in his or her mental attitude.
The condition can arise either as a consequence of emotional problems caused by
shock, fear, or guilt, or vice-versa, as a result of depletion of Kidney-Yin and KidneyEssence (through overwork). In particular, inappropriate feelings of guilt are often the
cause of Kidney-Yin deficiency together with a certain sinking of Kidney-Qi; a feeling of
guilt over a long period of time gnaws away at the Mind and Will-Power and consumes
Yin.
Caution and contraindications
Yin-nourishing substances are cloying in nature and tend to weaken the Spleen and
increase Dampness. If there is a Spleen deficiency and some Dampness together with the
Kidney-Yin deficiency (which is quite common), do not use the formula continuously:
take it for 3-4 months and then suspend its use for 1-2 months. Alternatively, if the
patient is receiving acupuncture, the practitioner could treat the Kidney-Yin deficiency
with this formula and concentrate on tonifying the Spleen and resolving Dampness with
acupuncture.
Classical antecedent: Zuo Gui Wan (Restoring the Left [Kidney] Pill).
Remedy in a nutshell: nourish Kidney-Yin.
Timing of administration: Take in the evening (or a higher dose in the evening),
ideally with a little, slightly-salted, hot water.
NOURISH THE ROOT AND CLEAR WIND
Shu Di Huang Radix Rehmanniae preparata
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Sheng Di Huang Radix Rehmanniae
Yu Zhu Rhizoma Polygonati odorati
Bai Shao Radix Paeoniae alba
Mu Dan Pi Cortex Moutan
Zhi Mu Rhizoma Anemarrhenae
Wu Jia Pi Cortex Acanthopanacis
Mu Gua Fructus Chaenomelis
Sang Ji Sheng Herba Taxilli
Qin Jiao Radix Gentianae macrophyllae
Wei Ling Xian Radix Clematidis
Xi Xian Cao Herba Siegesbeckiae
Hai Feng Teng Caulis Piperis kadsurae
Zhi Gan Cao Radix Glycyrrhizae preparata
Pattern: Chronic Bi Syndrome of lower part of body with underlying deficiency of Kidney and
Liver-Yin.
Action: nourishes Kidney-Yin and Liver-Yin, strengthens the bones and sinews, expels WindDampness from the joints.
Indications: lower backache, knee-ache, sciatica, joint ache, dizziness, tinnitus, night-sweating,
poor memory, blurred vision, dry eyes, dry skin.
Tongue: without coating; red, if there is Empty Heat.
Pulse: Weak on both Rear (chi) positions or Floating-Empty.
Explanation
Nourish the Root and Clear Wind is a new formula, created for the clinical situation of WindDampness in the joints against a background of Kidney- and Liver-Yin deficiency. The principle
underlying this formula is the same as that for Brocade Sinews, i.e. the former is for a
background of Kidney-Yin deficiency while the latter is for a background of Liver-Blood
deficiency. The formula Nourish the Root and Clear Wind is particularly indicated for chronic Bi
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Syndrome of the elderly.
Mental-emotional pattern
Key words: Break-through.
Fear, guilt and shock are the main emotions underlying this clinical situation. These
emotions weaken the Kidneys and the patient will be depressed, exhausted and lacking will
power. This person will also show a certain mental rigidity and anxiety.
Caution and contraindications
There are no specific contraindications for this remedy except that Yin-nourishing herbs may
weaken the Spleen if used long term. This side-effect can be counteracted by administering
acupuncture.
Remedy in a nutshell: chronic Bi Syndrome of the elderly with underlying Kidney-Yin
deficiency.
NOURISH THE SOUL
Suan Zao Ren Semen Ziziphi spinosae
Bai Shao Radix Paeoniae alba
Wu Wei Zi Fructus Schisandrae
Fu Shen Sclerotium Poriae pararadicis
Zhi Mu Radix Anemarrhenae
Chuan Xiong Rhizoma Chuanxiong
Sheng Di Huang Radix Rehmanniae
Mai Men Dong Radix Ophiopogonis
Yuan Zhi Radix Polygalae
Bai Zi Ren Semen Biotae
Gou Teng Ramulus Uncariae cum Uncis
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Ye Jiao Teng Caulis Polygoni multiflori
Gan Cao Radix Glycyrrhizae uralensis
Pattern: Liver-, Kidney-Yin and Heart-Yin deficiency, Heart Empty Heat, Mind (Shen) and
Ethereal Soul (Hun) unsettled.
Action: Nourish Liver-, Kidney- and Heart Yin, clear Empty Heat, calm the Mind, settle the
Hun.
Indications: insomnia, anxiety, mental restlessness, agitation, feeling fidgety, very slight
hyperactive behaviour from Deficiency, night-sweating, dizziness, tinnitus, dry mouth at night,
waking up at night with desire to sip water, palpitations.
Tongue: Red without coating or with rootless coating, dry, possibly Heart crack.
Pulse: Floating-Empty or Fine-Rapid.
Explanation
Nourish the Soul is a variation of Suan Zao Ren Tang with a greater emphasis on nourishing Yin
and clearing Empty Heat. It nourishes Yin of Liver, Kidneys and Heart. When Liver-Yin is
deficient, the Hun is not anchored in the Liver and it therefore “moves” too much: this causes
anxiety and insomnia and, in some cases, a sllight manic behaviour.
Gou Teng and Ye Jiao Teng are included to subdue the Liver so as to “absorb” the Hun back
into the Liver.
Mental-emotional pattern
Key words: Returning Soul.
When Liver-Yin is deficient, the Hun is not anchored in the Liver and it therefore “moves” too
much: this causes anxiety and insomnia and, in some cases, a sllight manic behaviour. When the
Hun is restless at night, it particularly causes excessive dreaming, such as nightmares or dreams
of anxiety.
The Yin deficiency of the Heart aggravates the situation and contributes to the “wandering” of
the Hun at night. A person suffering from Yin deficiency of Liver, Heart and Kidneys will have
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a constant feeling of anxiety and mental restlessness. When Empty Heat develops from Yin
deficiency, it aggravates the feeling of anxiety and insomnia.
Caution and contraindications
Yin-nourishing substances are cloying in nature and tend to weaken the Spleen and
increase Dampness. If there is a Spleen deficiency and some Dampness together with the
Yin deficiency (which is quite common), do not use the formula continuously: take it for
3-4 months and then suspend its use for 1 month. Alternatively, if the patient is receiving
acupuncture, the practitioner could treat the Yin deficiency with this formula and
concentrate on tonifying the Spleen and resolving Dampness with acupuncture.
Classical antecedent: Suan Zao Ren Tang (Ziziphus Decoction).
Remedy in a nutshell: nourish Yin of Liver, Heart and Kidneys to settle the Hun and
calm the Shen.
Timing of administration: it is preferable to take this remedy in the
afternoon/evening.
OPEN THE HEART
Ban Xia Rhizoma Pinelliae preparatum
Hou Po Cortex Magnoliae officinalis
Zi Su Ye Folium Perillae
Da Zao Fructus Jujubae
Gan Cao Radix Glycyrrhizae
Chai Hu Radix Bupleuri
Bai He Bulbus Lilii
Jie Geng Radix Platycodi
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Qing Pi Pericarpium Citri reticulatae viride
He Huan Pi Cortex Albiziae
Pattern: Stagnation of Lung- and Heart-Qi in the chest from emotional problems, such
as sadness, worry or grief; it may also be caused by repressed anger.
Action: Moves Qi in the chest, stimulates the descending of Lung- and Heart-Qi, calms
the Mind, settles the Corporeal Soul.
Indications: A feeling of tightness and oppression of the chest and epigastrium, slight
breathlessness, sighing, anxiety, sadness, depression, irritability, pale complexion,
slight chest pain, a feeling of a lump in the throat.
Tongue: Perhaps slightly red in the chest area (sides of its central section).
Pulse: Slightly Tight in general, especially on the Front position, but also weak and
empty.
Explanation
Open the Heart is a variation of Pinellia-Magnolia Decoction (Ban Xia Hou Po Tang). It
is aimed at dealing with emotional strain deriving from sadness, grief, worry, frustration,
or bottled-up anger, manifesting as tightness of the chest or a feeling of obstruction in
the throat. The formula is often cited as one to move Liver-Qi when, in fact, its clinical
use is really to deal with stagnation of Qi in the chest deriving not so much from the
Liver as from the Lungs and Heart. However, as the Liver which controls the free flow
of Qi, is also involved whenever Qi stagnates, Chai Hu and Qing Pi were added to
soothe the Liver and eliminate stagnation. Bai He and Jie Geng were added to move
Lung-Qi and settle the Corporeal Soul. He Huan Pi was added to open the Mind's
orifices and lift mental depression.
The main emphasis of the formula is to move stagnant Heart- and Lung-Qi. Stagnation
of Heart- and Lung-Qi derives from sadness, grief or worry over a long period of time.
These emotions first deplete Heart-Qi and Lung-Qi and depress the Shen and the Po. The
depletion of Lung-Qi from sadness and grief leads to shallow breathing and poor
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circulation of Qi in the chest and, eventually, to stagnation of Lung-Qi in the chest. The
simultaneous weakness and stagnation of Lung-Qi may also lead to Phlegm. The Lung
channel influences the throat and its stagnation can cause a feeling of obstruction there.
Mental-emotional pattern
Key words: Get it off one's Chest.
Stagnation of Heart- and Lung-Qi derives from long-term sadness, grief or worry with
the resulting depletion of the Shen and Po. This resides in the Lungs and it therefore
affects breathing. The person becomes anxious as well as sad, sighs frequently and has
the typical feeling of obstruction in the throat and chest. This is caused by the
constriction of the Po in the throat and chest. The chronic stagnation of Heart-Qi
obstructs the Shen and causes severe confusion. The formula is used literally to "get it
off one's chest".
Caution and contraindications
There are no specific contraindications for this formula.
Classical antecedent: Ban Xia Hou Po Tang (Pinellia-Magnolia Decoction)
Remedy in a nutshell: stagnation of Heart- and Lung-Qi in the chest from emotional
problems.
PEACEFUL SUNSET
Long Dan Cao Radix Gentianae
Gou Teng Ramulus Uncariae cum Uncis
Zhe Bei Mu Bulbus Fritillariae thunbergii
Zhu Ru Caulis Bambusae in Taeniam
Gua Lou Fructus Trichosanthis
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Ban Xia Rhizoma Pinelliae preparatum
Fu Ling Poria
Chen Pi Pericarpium Citri reticulatae
Ju Hua Flos Chrysanthemi
Mu Dan Pi Cortex Moutan
Chi Shao Radix Paeoniae rubra
Ye Jiao Teng Caulis Polygoni multiflori
Sheng Di Huang Radix Rehmanniae
Gan Cao Radix Glycyrrhizae
Pattern: Liver-Fire, Liver-Wind, Blood Heat, Blood stasis, Phlegm-Heat.
Action: drains Liver-Fire, subdues Liver-Wind, resolves Phlegm, clears Heat, cools Blood,
invigorates Blood.
Indications: insomnia, dizziness, tinnitus, trigeminal neuralgia, expectoration of mucus,
constipation, thirst, chest pain, hypertension, petechiae.
Tongue: reddish-purple, swollen and stiff body, thick-dry coating. May also be Moving or
Deviated (if Wind predominates).
Pulse: Full, Slippery, Wiry.
Explanation
Peaceful Sunset is a new formula to drain Liver-Fire, cool and invigorate Blood, subdue Wind
and resolve Phlegm in the elderly. This combination of patterns is common in the elderly
because of the interaction between Phlegm and Blood stasis. In the elderly, Liver-Wind is often
associated with Phlegm too: as Wind rises towards the upper part, Phlegm follows it. The tongue
and pulse are quite distinctive and if we see such a tongue in an elderly person we should actively
resolve Phlegm, clear Heat, cool Blood and invigorate Blood even in the absence of symptoms.
The remedy Peaceful Sunset was formulated also for such preventive action in mind.
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Mental-emotional pattern
Key words: The Patient Self.
Anger, frustration, resentment and hatred can all cause the rise of Liver-Yang and, in the long
run, of Liver-Fire. The excessive consumption of greasy-fried foods and alcohol will contribute
to this pathology. The patient gets easily angry, is impatient and restless: sleep is agitated with
vivid dreams. This is due to the excessive movement of Hun which agitates the Shen.
At times, this condition can lead to depression especially if the anger and resentment, often
towards a family member, are suppressed for many years. In such cases, the person may appear
depressed and speak with a weak voice which may lead us to think that the condition is caused by
a deficiency and by emotions such as sadness or grief. However, the tongue and pulse (Full and
Wiry) betray the real origin of the problem and its emotional root in anger and resentment.
Caution and contraindications
The formula contains bitter-cold herbs which, in the long run, may damage the Spleen. To
prevent injury of the Spleen, we should ask the patient to suspend the use of the formula for one
month every 4-5 months.
Remedy in a nutshell: Fire, Wind, Phlegm and Blood stasis in the elderly.
PROSPEROUS EARTH
Bai Zhu Rhizoma Atractylodis macrocephalae
Ren Shen Radix Ginseng
Huang Qi Radix Astragali
Shan Yao Radix Dioscoreae
Fu Ling Poria
Chen Pi Pericarpium Citri reticulatae
Ban Xia Rhizoma Pinelliae preparatum
Zhi Gan Cao Radix Glycyrrhizae preparata
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Pattern: Spleen-Qi deficiency and Lung-Qi deficiency.
Action: tonifies Spleen- and Lung-Qi, resolve Dampness.
Indications: poor digestion, tiredness, slight abdominal distension, abdominal fullness, poor
appetite, loose stools, desire to lie down, weak voice, propensity to catching colds, slight
depression.
Tongue: Pale.
Pulse: Weak.
Explanation
This formula is a variation of Liu Jun Zi Tang (Six Gentlemen Decoction) which tonifies SpleenQi and, secondarily, resolves Dampness.
Bai Zhu, Ren Shen, Fu Ling, Chen Pi, Ban Xia and Zhi Gan Cao constitute the formula Liu
Jun Zi Tang which tonifies Spleen-Qi and resolves Dampness. Huang Qi was added to increase
the Qi-tonifying effect and to tonify Lung-Qi. Shan Yao was added to tonify Stomach-Qi: this
herb also mildly tonifies Stomach-Yin.
Mental-emotional pattern
Key words: Steady Centre.
The clinical picture related to this remedy is common: Spleen- and Lung-Qi deficiency. A
person suffering from such patterns will be tired, somewhat timid, quiet and introspective. He or
she will have difficulty in taking care of themselves at various levels. In their search for a steady
c entre, they may become excessively dependent on others or the opposite, i.e. become
excessively supportive of others and neglect their own welfare. This may generate a feeling of
isolation and a feeling that “nobody understands them”.
Caution and contraindications
There are no specific contraindications for this remedy.
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Classical antecedent: Liu Jun Zi Tang (Six Gentlemen Decoction).
Remedy in a nutshell: Lung- and Spleen-Qi deficiency.
RADIO-SUPPORT
Huang Qi Radix Astragali
Dang Gui Radix Angelicae sinensis
Hong Hua Flos Carthami
Dan Shen Radix Salviae miltiorrhizae
Shou Wu Radix Polygoni multiflori preparata
Gou Qi Zi Fructus Lycii
Wu Wei Zi Fructus Schisandrae
Nu Zhen Zi Fructus Ligustri lucidi
Zhi Mu Rhizoma Anemarrhenae
Mu Dan Pi Cortex Moutan
Gan Cao Radix Glycyrrhizae
Sheng Di Huang Radix Rehmanniae
Chen Pi Pericarpium Citri reticulatae
Yu Zhu Rhizoma Polygonati odorati
Pattern: Qi and Blood deficiency, Yin deficiency, Blood stasis, Blood-Heat.
Action: Tonify Qi, nourish Blood, nourish Yin, move Blood, cool Blood.
Indications: Side-effects of radiotherapy - local necrosis, pain, inflammation, local exudation
with a burning feeling.
Explanation
Huang Qi tonifies Qi. Dang Gui, Shou Wu, Gou Qi Zi and Sheng Di Huang nourish and cool
Blood. Wu Wei Zi, Yu Zhu, Zhi Mu and Sheng Di Huang nourish Yin. Mu Dan Pi, Hong
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Hua and Dan Shen cool and invigorate Blood. Chen Pi resolves Dampness to balance the
cloying effect of the Blood tonics.
Caution and contraindications
The formula should be taken every day during administration of radiotherapy. It should be
continued for about 4 weeks after the end of the radiotherapy course. Take at least 9 tablets a
day.
Remedy in a nutshell: to minimize side-effects of radiotherapy.
RED STIRRING
Dang Gui Radix Angelicae sinensis
Sheng Di Huang Radix Rehmanniae
Chuan Xiong Rhizoma Chuanxiong
Chi Shao Radix Paeoniae rubra
Tao Ren Semen Persicae
Hong Hua Flos Carthami
Chai Hu Radix Bupleuri
Zhi Ke Fructus Aurantii
Niu Xi Radix Achyranthis bidentatae
Jie Geng Radix Platycodi
Gan Cao Radix Glycyrrhizae
Dan Shen Radix Salviae miltiorrhizae
Yuan Zhi Radix Polygalae
Yu Jin Radix Curcumae
He Huan Pi Cortex Albiziae
Pattern: Blood stasis in the chest and the Mind.
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Action: invigorates Blood, moves Qi, stops pain, calms the Mind and open the Mind’s orifices.
Indications: chest pain, headaches, feeling of heat in the chest, palpitations, anxiety, agitation,
insomnia, irritability, depression, mental confusion.
Tongue: reddish- or bluish-purple (which may be so only in the chest area).
Pulse: Choppy, Firm or Wiry.
Chest area
Explanation
Red Stirring is a variation of Xue Fu Zhu Yu Tang (Blood-Mansion Eliminating Stasis
Decoction) which invigorates Blood in the chest. The formula has been modified to calm the
Mind and open the Mind’s orifices, thus treating the mental-emotional consequences of Blood
stasis in the Upper Burner.
Dang Gui, Sheng Di Huang, Chuan Xiong and Chi Shao form a modified form of Si Wu Tang
which invigorates Blood. Tao Ren, Hong Hua Dan Shen and Yu Jin invigorate Blood. The last
two herbs also calm the Mind and open the Mind’s orifices. Chai Hu and Zhi Ke and Jie Geng
and Niu Xi form two couples of herbs that increase the moving effect because Chai Hu and Jie
Geng go to the Upper Burner while Zhi Ke and Niu Xi go to the Lower Burner: this effect results
in a movement between Upper and Lower Burner. Yuan Zhi and He Huan Pi calm the Mind and
open the Mind’s orifices.
Mental-emotional pattern
Key words: Pure Heart.
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Blood is the residence of the Shen and any Blood pathology will affect the Shen. Blood stasis
agitates the mind and this is reflected on an emotional level with agitation and insomnia. Blood
stasis also obstructs the Mind’s orifices and this is reflected in mental confusion and obsessive
thinking.
Anger, frustration, resentment, excess “joy” (which should be intended as excessive
stimulation), shock and guilt may all lead to Heart-Blood stasis. This normally happens only
after a long-standing Qi stagnation.
Heart-Blood stasis affecting the Shen will cause depression, insomnia, irritability and, in
severe cases, even psychosis. Dream is severely disturbed with the patient waking up frequently.
Caution and contraindications
There are no specific contraindications to this formula.
Classical antecedent: Xue Fu Zhu Yu Tang (Blood-Mansion Eliminating Stasis Decoction).
Remedy in a nutshell: Heart-Blood stasis affecting the Shen.
RELEASE CONSTRAINT
Xiang Fu Rhizoma Cyperi
Chuan Xiong Rhizoma Chuanxiong
Cang Zhu Rhizoma Atractylodis
Shan Zhi Zi Fructus Gardeniae
Shen Qu Massa medicata fermentata
He Huan Pi Cortex Albiziae
Shi Chang Pu Rhizoma Acori tatarinowii
Gan Cao Radix Glycyrrhizae
Yuan Zhi Radix Polygalae
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Pattern: Stagnation of Liver-Qi.
Action: Regulate Qi, eliminate stagnation, pacify the Liver, lift mental depression.
Indications: Mental depression, pent-up anger, resentment or frustration over a long period of
time, emotional stress, tiredness (from stagnation rather than deficiency of Qi), a feeling of
oppression of the chest or epigastrium, headaches, belching, sighing, slight feeling of nausea,
slight feeling of breathlessness.
Tongue: Slightly red sides (Liver area).
Pulse: Wiry and full on both sides.
Explanation
Release Constraint is a variation of the classical prescription Yue Ju Wan LigusticumGardenia Pill formulated by Zhu Dan Xi (1281-1358). He believed that mental depression
derived from the "six stagnations" of Qi, Blood, Dampness, Phlegm, Heat and Food. The
formula Yue Ju Wan contained five herbs to deal with these six stagnations (because Cang
Zhu deals with both Dampness and Phlegm).
Although the formula is for the six stagnations, the emphasis is on stagnation of Qi from
emotional strain. Release Constraint is extremely effective in dealing with emotional
strain and depression deriving from stagnation of Liver-Qi, especially in men. It differs
from the more famous “Free and Easy Wanderer Pill” (Xiao Yao San, Freeing the Moon
in the Women’s Treasure) in so far as it is suitable for cases when the stagnation of LiverQi predominates and the condition is primarily full.
Instead, Xiao Yao San (Freeing the Moon) is indicated in conditions of mixed
deficiency and excess, with a deficiency of Liver-Blood and Spleen-Qi and with
stagnation of Liver-Qi. The pulse and tongue are good discriminating factors between
these two formulae: if the pulse is wiry and the tongue is red (or partially red on the
sides), Release Constraint is indicated; if the pulse is choppy or fine overall and wiry in
parts, and the tongue is pale on the sides, Xiao Yao San (Freeing the Moon) is indicated.
He Huan Pi was added to soothe the Liver and calm the Mind and the Ethereal Soul. Shi
Chang Pu was added to open the Mind's orifices.
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The formula also harmonizes Liver and Stomach and is particularly suited for stagnant
Liver-Qi invading the Stomach and deriving from emotional upsets occurring at meal
times. The three most important signs for the use of the formula are tiredness,
depression and a wiry pulse.
Mental-emotional pattern
Key words: Abandoning Resentment.
The formula addresses the emotional and mental manifestations of stagnation of
Liver-Qi when it causes the Mind to be depressed: moodiness, mental depression, premenstrual tension, irritability, frustration, annoyance and impatience are emotional
manifestations of this. A typical feature of this condition is first of all a certain mental
confusion deriving from stagnation, and secondly, a strong resistance to any mental or
affective change. The formula is extremely effective for this type of mental depression.
On a physical level there is a feeling of distension, sighing, belching, tiredness,
hypochondriac pain, a feeling of tightness in the chest, irregular periods, clumsiness,
breast distension and a wiry pulse (which may be wiry only on the left side). In most
cases, the tongue may not change, whilst in severe cases it may be slightly red on the
sides.The formula also harmonizes Liver and Stomach and is particularly suited for
stagnant Liver-Qi invading the Stomach deriving from emotional upsets occurring at
meal times.
Caution and contraindications
Provided there are clear signs of stagnation and the pulse is wiry on the whole, the
formula can be used for long periods of time without any particular contraindication.
Contraindicated in pregnancy.
Classical antecedent: Yue Ju Wan (Ligusticum-Gardenia Pill).
Remedy in a nutshell: depression from Liver-Qi stagnation.
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RINGING METAL
Ban Xia Rhizoma Pinelliae preparata
Chen Pi Pericarpium Citri reticulatae
Fu Ling Poria
Zhu Ru Caulis Bambusae in Taeniam
Huang Qin Radix Scutellariae
Xing Ren Semen Armeniacae
Gua Lou Fructus Trichosanthis
Zhi Shi Fructus Aurantii immaturus
Gan Cao Radix Glycyrrhizae uralensis
Sang Bai Pi Cortex Mori
Zi Wan Radix Asteris
Pattern: Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs.
Action: resolve Phlegm, clear Heat, restore the descending of Lung-Qi, stop cough.
Indications: acute cough with expectoration of profuse, yellow sputum following an upper
respiratory infection, a feeling of oppression of the chest, fever, thirst, insomnia, feeling of heat, red
cheeks.
Tongue: normal, red or red only in the front with a thick-sticky-yellow coating.
Pulse: Slippery, rapid.
Explanation
The most common consequence of an invasion of external Wind is that the pathogenic factor
goes into the Interior and turns into Heat. At the same time, the pathogenic factor interferes with
the function of the Stomach and Spleen and leads to the formation of Phlegm. Thus, the
pathogenic factor is Phlegm-Heat which settles in the Lungs. Phlegm interferes with the
descending of Lung-Qi and causes cough, breathlessness and a feeling of oppression of the chest.
Ban Xia, Chen Pi and Fu Ling resolve Phlegm while Zhu Ru, Huang Qin, Gua Lou and Sang
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Bai Pi specifically resolve Phlegm-Heat. Xing Ren, Zhi Shi and Zi Wan restore the descending of
Lung-Qi to stop cough.
Mental-emotional pattern
Clear Metal is used only for acute chest infections and it is therefore used for a short time (days).
I therefore does not have a mental-emotional application.
Caution and contraindications
There are no specific contraindications for this remedy. In any case, it is used only
for acute conditions and therefore only for about one week.
Remedy in a nutshell: resolve Phlegm-Heat after an invasion of Wind.
Classical antecedent: Qing Qi Hua Tan Tang (Clearing Qi and Resolving Phlegm Decoction).
ROOT THE SPIRIT
Bai Shao Radix Paeoniae alba
Dang Gui Radix Angelicae sinensis
Wu Wei Zi Fructus Schisandrae
Tu Si Zi Semen Cuscutae
Mai Men Dong Radix Ophiopogonis
Bai Zi Ren Semen Platycladi
Suan Zao Ren Semen Ziziphi spinosae
Fu Shen Sclerotium Poriae pararadicis
Pattern: Liver-Blood deficiency, unsettled Hun.
Action: Nourish Liver-Blood and Liver-Yin, settle the Hun, calm the Mind and promote sleep.
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Indications: insomnia (either difficulty in falling asleep or wakefulness during the night), dreamdisturbed sleep. Other manifestations may include blurred vision, poor memory, tingling of
limbs, and scanty periods.
Tongue: Pale in case of Liver-Blood deficiency, red and without coating in case of Liver-Yin
deficiency, thin.
Pulse: Choppy (Liver-Blood deficiency) or Floating-Empty (Liver-Yin deficiency).
Explanation
Root the Spirit is a variation of the ancient prescription “Attracting Sleep Decoction” (Yin
Mei Tang). It is aimed at treating mental restlessness, anxiety, vexation and insomnia
deriving from a deficiency of Liver-Blood and/or Liver-Yin; this leads to the Ethereal Soul
being unrooted and the person feeling restless and aimless.
Bai Shao and Dang Gui nourish Liver-Blood. Wu Wei Zi nourishes Yin and subdues
Yang. Tu Si Zi tonifies the Kidneys and is astringent. Mai Men Dong nourishes Yin. Bai
Zi Ren, Suan Zao Ren and Fu Shen calm the Mind and settle the Ethereal Soul.
Mental-emotional pattern
Key words: Safe Haven.
Frustration, resentment, or old grudges can cause Liver-Blood or Liver-Yin to become
deficient. The patient's Liver-Yin has been consumed by repressed anger over many
years. He or she feels tense and anxious and sleeps badly, disturbed by unpleasant
dreams. The pulse is floating-empty but also slightly wiry on the left side. In some cases,
sadness depletes Liver-Blood or Liver-Yin. When it does, the person feels depressed and
sad and sleeps badly, but does not dream much. The patient also lacks a sense of
direction and finds it difficult to focus on life's personal aims.
The formula is specific for insomnia deriving from Liver-Blood or Liver-Yin
deficiency causing the Ethereal Soul to be unsettled as it is deprived of its residence at
night. Another characteristic sign of this may be a peculiar floating sensation
accompanied by a vague feeling of anxiety just as the patient is dropping off to sleep.
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Caution and contraindications
Although the formula nourishes Liver-Yin, it does not contain many cloying herbs.
Therefore, there are no specific contraindications to the use of this remedy.
Classical antecedent: Yin Mei Tang (Attracting Sleep Decoction).
Remedy in a nutshell: insomnia from Liver-Blood or Liver-Yin deficiency.
Timing of administration: take a higher dose in the evening.
SEARCHING SOUL
Ren Shen Radix Ginseng
Huang Qi Radix Astragali
Dang Gui Radix Angelicae sinensis
Shou Wu Radix Polygoni multiflori preparata
Long Yan Rou Arillus Longan
Yuan Zhi Radix Polygalae
He Huan Pi Cortex Albiziae
Yu Jin Radix Curcumae
Mei Gui Hua Flos Rosae rugosae
Qing Pi Pericarpium Citri reticulatae viride
Du Zhong Cortex Eucommiae
Fo Shou Fructus Citri sarcodactylis
Xu Duan Radix Dipsaci
Zhi Gan Cao Radix Glycyrrhizae preparata
Da Zao Fructus Jujubae
Fu Xiao Mai Fructus Tritici levis
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Pattern: Kidney-Yang deficiency, Liver-Blood deficiency, Qi stagnation, insufficient movement
of the Hun.
Action: tonifies Kidney-Yang, nourishes Liver-Blood, promotes the movement of the Ethereal
Soul, strengthens Will-Power (Zhi).
Indications: depression, lack of a sense of direction in one’s life, mental confusion, relationship
problems, indecision, lack of will-power and enthusiasm, sadness, timidity.
Tongue: Pale.
Pulse: Choppy or Weak.
Explanation
The remedy contains Qi and Blood tonics to promote the movement of the Hun: in fact, the
movement of the Hun relies not only on the free flow of Liver-Qi but also on its (physiological)
ascending. Qi tonics (Ren Shen and Huang Qi) will stimulate that ascending movement of LiverQi. Blood tonics (Dang Gui, Shou Wu and Long Yan Rou) will strengthen Liver-Blood which is
the basis for Liver-Qi.
He Huan Pi, Yu Jin, Mei Gui Hua, Qing Pi and Fo Shou move Liver-Qi and calm the Mind.
These herbs will also stimulate the movement of the Hun to lift depression. Du Zhong and Xu
Duan tonify the Kidneys to strengthen Will-Power (Zhi): strengthening the Zhi of the Kidneys is
essential in depression because the Zhi gives the person enthusiasm, drive, determination.
Mental-emotional pattern
Key words: Steadfast Search.
Liver-Blood is the “mother” of Liver-Qi. Normally, when Liver-Blood is deficient, the Blood
may fail to anchor the Hun and the person becomes anxious. However, if Liver-Blood deficiency
is associated with Liver-Qi deficiency (and failure of the physiological ascending of Liver-Qi),
the person is depressed. This results in a lack of movement of the Hun so that the person
becomes depressed and lacks a sense of direction in life. He or she will also be undecided and
timid.
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Caution and contraindications
There are no specific contraindications for this remedy.
Classical antecedent: Gui Pi Tang (Restoring the Spleen Decoction).
Remedy in a nutshell: depression from lack of movement of the Ethereal Soul (Hun).
SEPARATE CLEAR AND TURBID
Bi Xie Rhizoma Dioscoreae hypoglaucae
Wu Yao Radix Linderae
Yi Zhi Ren Fructus Alpiniae oxyphyllae
Shi Chang Pu Rhizoma Acori tatarinowii
Fu Ling Poria
Gan Cao Radix Glycyrrhizae
Huang Qi Radix Astragali
Che Qian Zi Semen Plantaginis
Qu Mai Herba Dianthi
Bai Shao Radix Paeoniae alba
Ba Ji Tian Radix Morindae officinalis
Patterm: Dampness in the Bladder, Qi deficiency, Lin disease from deficiency.
Action: tonifies Qi, resolves Dampness, eliminates turbidity, opens the Water passages of the
Lower Burner, tonifies the Kidneys.
Indications: chronic urinary difficulty, frequent but scanty urinarion, hypogastric discomfort, no
burning on urination, turbid urine, slight incontinence of urine, tiredness, depression, lower
backache, dizziness, feeling of cold.
Tongue: Pale.
Pulse: Weak, especially on the right-chi position, often very slightly Tight on left-chi position.
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Explanation
Separate Clear and Turbid is a variation of Bi Xie Fen Qing Yin (Dioscorea Separating the Pure
Decoction). Chronic urinary difficulty are common in women and it often is due to interstitial
cystitis. In many cases, the main symptoms are frequent urination and a discomfort after
urination. Often there is no burning on urination and the urine is clear (no bacteria).
In the majority of cases, the urinary symptoms are due to deficiency and sinking of Spleenand Kidney-Qi; this may also be combined with some Qi stagnation and some Dampness. The
formula is for such chronic urinary symptoms due not to Heat or Damp-Heat, but to Dampness
obstructing the urinary passages against a background of Spleen- and Kidney-Qi deficiency.
Fu Ling was added to resolve Dampness. Gan Cao and Bai Shao were added to “moderate
urgency” i.e. to relieve the urinary discomfort and frequency. Huang Qi and Ba Ji Tian were
added to tonify and lift Spleen- and Kidney-Qi. Che Qian Zi and Qu Mai were added to clear
any Heat that there might be and relive urinary discomfort.
Mental-emotional pattern
Key words: Clear Judgment.
The formula helps the patient to discriminate among various choices and problems and
develop judgement. The mental-emotional pattern related to this formula may be caused by
resentment, obsessive thinking or worry over a long period of time. The Small Intestine’s
function of separating clear from turbid (fluids) has its counterpart in the ability to discriminate
among choices in life.
Caution and contraindications
There are no specific contraindications for this formula.
Classical antecedent: Bi Xie Fen Qing Yin (Dioscorea Separating the Clear Decoction).
Remedy in a nutshell: chronic urinary difficulty from Spleen- and Kidney-Qi deficiency.
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SETTLING THE SOUL
Yuan Zhi Radix Polygalae
Shi Chang Pu Rhizoma Acori tatarinowii
Huang Qin Radix Scutellariae
Long Dan Cao Radix Gentianae
Zhu Ye Folium Phyllostachys nigrae
Suan Zao Ren Semen Ziziphi spinosae
Gua Lou Fructus Trichosanthis
Gou Teng Ramulus Uncariae cum Uncis
Lian Xin Plumula Nelumbinis
Bai Shao Radix Paeoniae alba
Zhu Ru Caulis Bambusaie in Taeniam
Chen Pi Pericarpium Citri reticulatae
Gan Cao Radix Glycyrrhizae
Pattern: Liver- and Heart-Fire with Phlegm-Heat, Hun agitated.
Action: drains Fire, resolves Phlegm, opens the Mind’s orifices, calms the Shen and the Hun.
Indications: Anxiety, insomnia, manic behaviour, active at night, making many simultaneous
plans, incessant talking, laughing inappropriately.
Tongue: Red, redder on tip and sides, Swollen, thick-sticky-yellow coating, central Heart crack
with dry-sticky-yellow coating inside it.
Pulse: Slippery, Overflowing, Rapid.
Explanation
Yuan Zhi and Shi Chang Pu open the Mind’s orifices when these are obstructed by Phlegm. Long
Dan Cao and Huang Qin drain Liver- and Heart-Fire. Zhu Ye clears Heart-Heat. Suan Zao Ren,
Gou Teng and Lian Xin calm the Mind and the Hun. Bai Shao “absorbs” the Hun back into the
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Liver. Gua Lou, Zhu Ru and Chen Pi resolve Phlegm.
Mental-emotional pattern
Key words: Quiet Planning.
When Fire affects the Heart and Liver, it agitates the Hun so that the Shen cannot control it.
This results in “manic behaviour” and anxiety. “Manic behaviour” is intended here not in its full
psychiatric manifestation, i.e. in bipolar disease; it is rather intended as a mild form of manic
behaviour manifesting in a person who makes many plans simultaneously, none of which come
to fruition. One characteristic trait of this person is staying up at night to work or to engage in
hobby activities. This situation leads to a breakdown of the relationship between the Shen and the
Hun so that the former does not control the latter enough, hence the manic behaviour. People
suffering from this clinical situation are often artistic.
In addition to the Fire, there is also Phlegm which obstructs the Mind’s orifices. This leads to
mental confusion and possibly compulsive behaviour.
Caution and contraindications
This remedy contains bitter and cold herbs and therefore one must be certain the diagnosis is
correct, i.e. there must be Fire (Full Heat) and Phlegm-Heat. The pulse must be Full and the
tongue must have a thick-sticky coating. Bitter and cold herbs may damage the Spleen when
used continuously; it is therefore recommended to interrupt the use of this remedy for one month
every 4-5 months.
Classical antecedent: Long Dan Xie Gan Tang Gentiana Draining the Liver Decoction.
Remedy in a nutshell: “manic behaviour” from agitate Hun affected by Phlegm-Heat in the
Liver and Heart.
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SMOOTH PASSAGE
Bai Zhu Rhizoma Atractylodis macrocephalae
Fu Ling Poria
Bai Shao Radix Paeoniae alba
Mu Xiang Radix Aucklandiae
Xiang Fu Rhizoma Cyperi
Zhi Ke Fructus Aurantii
Huang Bo Cortex Phellodendri
Ku Shen Radix Sophorae flavescentis
Lian Zi Semen Nelumbinis
Bai Tou Weng Radix Pulsatillae
Shen Qu Massa medicata fermentata
Pattern: Spleen and Liver not harmonized, Spleen-Qi deficiency, Liver-Qi stagnation, Dampness
in Intestine.
Action: Tonify Spleen-Qi, move Qi, pacify the Liver, harmonize Liver and Spleen, resolve
Dampness from the Intestines, move the stools, stop diarrhea.
Indications: Alternation of constipation and diarrhea, abdominal pain, fullness and distension,
stools at times like small pellets and at other times very loose, mucus in the stools, irritability,
tiredness, poor appetite.
Tongue: Pale or normal-coloured, teethmarks, thin-sticky coating. If stagnation of Liver-Qi
predominates, the sides could be slightly red.
Pulse: If deficiency of Spleen-Qi predominates, it will be weak; if stagnation of Liver-Qi
predominates, it will be wiry. It may also be weak on the right and wiry on the left.
Explanation
Smooth Passage is a new formula aimed at treating the so-called irritable bowel syndrome
when it is caused by a disharmony of Spleen and Liver. Its main therapeutic aim is to
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tonify and move Qi and resolve Dampness in the Intestines. It therefore addresses the
three main patterns which are nearly always present in irritable bowel syndrome:
deficiency of Spleen-Qi; stagnation of Liver-Qi; and Dampness.
As this condition is nearly always characterized by alternation of constipation and
diarrhoea, the formula is aimed at moving the stools on the one hand and stopping
diarrhea on the other. However, it does not move the stools by the use of purgatives or by
moistening, both of which would be wrong in this case; it moves them by a relatively
large dose of Bai Zhu. A high dose of this herb strongly promotes the movement and
transportation of Spleen-Qi.
Bai Zhu tonifies Spleen-Qi and promotes the bowel movement. Fu Ling and Huang
Bai resolve Dampness from the Lower Burner. Bai Shao stops pain and diarrhoea. Mu
Xiang, Xiang Fu and Zhi Ke move Qi. Ku Shen and Bai Tou Weng resolve Toxic Heat in
the Intestines. Lian Zi stops diarrhoea. Shen Qu is a digestive herb.
Mental-emotional pattern
Key words: Letting Go.
As the patterns are Spleen-Qi deficiency and Liver-Qi stagnation, the patient will be
depressed and tired, but also wound up, tense and irritable. He or she may tend to worry
a lot. This situation often arises from long-standing, repressed emotions such as anger,
resentment, or frustration.
Caution and contraindications
Provided the patient suffers from Qi deficiency, stagnation of Qi and some Dampness in
the Intestines, there are no particular contraindications for this formula.
Remedy in a nutshell: Spleen-Qi deficiency, Dampness and Liver-Qi stagnation causing
irritable bowel syndrome.
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SOOTHE THE CENTRE
Bai Zhu Rhizoma Atractylodis macrocephalae
Dang Shen Radix Codonopsis
Zhi Gan Cao Radix Glycyrrhizae preparata
Fu Ling Poria
Chen Pi Pericarpium Citri reticulatae
Ban Xia Rhizoma Pinelliae preparatum
Sha Ren Fructus Amomi
Mu Xiang Radix Aucklandiae
Shan Yao Rhizoma Dioscoreae
Tai Zi Shen Radix Pseudostellariae
Bian Dou Semen Lablab album
Huo Xiang Herba Pogostemonis
Hou Po Cortex Magnoliae officinalis
Zi Su Ye Folium Perillae
Zhi Ke Fructus Aurantii
Shen Qu Massa medicata fermentata
Pattern: Stomach- and Spleen-Qi deficiency, Stomach-Yin deficiency, Dampness and stagnation
of Qi in the Middle Burner.
Action: Tonify Qi, strengthen the Spleen, nourish Stomach-Yin, resolve Dampness and move Qi
in the Centre.
Indications: Poor appetite, tiredness, feeling of fullness, distension and pain of the epigastrium,
poor digestion, weak limbs, loose stools, slightly dry mouth.
Tongue: Pale, teethmarks, sticky coating in the centre. If there is some Stomach-Yin deficiency,
the coating might be slightly rootless in the centre; if there is chronic, severe Spleen-Qi
deficiency, there might be small transversal cracks on the sides.
Pulse: Weak, especially on the right middle position.
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Explanation
Soothe the Centre is a variation of “Aucklandia-Amomum Six Gentlemen Decoction”
(Xiang Sha Liu Jun Zi Tang). Soothe the Centre aims at dealing with one of the most
common clinical conditions, i.e. deficiency of Spleen- and Stomach-Qi some StomachYin deficiency, retention of Dampness in the Middle Burner, and some stagnation of Qi.
Shan Yao, Bian Dou and Tai Zi Shen were added to nourish Stomach-Yin. Huo Xiang,
Hou Po and Zi Su Ye were added to resolve Dampness fragrantly and harmonize StomachQi. Zhi Ke was included to move Qi, and Shen Qu to promote digestion.
The main difference between Smooth Passage and Soothe the Centre is that the former
is aimed at harmonizing Liver and Spleen and treating the Intestines (hence constipation
and diarrhoea), while the latter is aimed more at treating the Middle Burner and digestive
problems of the Stomach and Spleen with some Dampness and some stagnation of Qi.
The formula Soothe the Centre can be used for chronic fatigue syndrome of a
predominantly Deficient nature with pronounced digestive symptoms and with only a
slight residual Dampness in the muscles. The main difference between this formula and
Tonify Qi and Ease the Muscles, which is also used for chronic fatigue syndrome, is that
the latter is used when the predominant symptoms are tiredness, muscle ache and
depression, while the present formula is used when the main symptoms are tiredness and
digestive problems. For chronic fatigue syndrome when Dampness is predominant,
consider using Ease the Muscles (for Damp-Heat) or Drain Fields (for Dampness).
Please note that the formula Soothe the Centre is primarily for Qi deficiency with
Dampness and the tongue would therefore have a fairly thick, sticky coating. If StomachYin is pronounced and the coating is missing completely, this formula is not suitable. In
such a case, consider using Jade Spring.
Mental-emotional pattern
Key words: Finding one's Centre.
The person will feel depressed and dejected, with a marked feeling of impotence. He or
she will find self-motivation difficult, always feeling dragged down and also somewhat
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lost, without a centre, no feeling of self-worth, and with a sensation of emptiness. Since
the Earth Element is deficient, the person lacks a centre and is therefore confused about
life's issues and easily swayed.
Caution and contraindications
Since the three patterns addressed by this formula are extremely common (Stomach and
Spleen deficiency, stagnation of Qi and Dampness in the Middle Burner), there are hardly
any contraindications.
Classical antecedent: Xiang Sha Liu Jun Zi Tang (Aucklandia-Amomum Six Gentlemen
Decotion).
Remedy in a nutshell: Spleen-Qi deficiency, Dampness and Qi stagnation in Middle
Burner with digestive symptoms.
SOOTHE THE SHEN
Zhi Gan Cao Radix Glycyrrhizae preparata
Fu Xiao Mai Fructus Tritici levis
Da Zao Fructus Jujubae
Zhi Mu Rhizoma Anemarrhenae
Bai He Bulbus Lilii
Dang Gui Radix Angelicae sinensis
Wu Wei Zi Fructus Schisandrae
He Huan Pi Cortex Albiziae
Yuan Zhi Radix Polygalae
Fo Shou Fructus Citri sarcodactylis
Suan Zao Ren Semen Ziziphi spinosae
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Pattern: Qi, Blood and/or Yin deficiency, Qi stagnation.
Action: Tonify Qi, nourish Blood and Yin, move Qi, open the Mind’s orifices.
Indications: Depression, anxiety, sadness, crying, mental confusion, disorientation,
melancholy, restless sleep, poor memory, tiredness, poor appetite, scanty periods.
Tongue: Pale or normal. In case of Yin deficiency: lack of coating.
Pulse: Weak, Choppy or Floating-Empty.
Explanation
Soothe the Shen is a combination of two classical prescriptions: Gan Mai Da Zao Tang
(Glycyrrhiza-Triticum-Ziziphus Decoction) and Bai He Zhi Mu Tang (LiliumAnemarrhena Decoction). Both these prescriptions are from the Jin Gui Yao Lue written
by Zhang Zhong Jing.
The classical indications for Gan Mai Da Zao Tang Glycyrrhiza-Triticum-Jujuba
Decoction from Bensky are: disorientation, melancholy, crying, inability to control
oneself, restless sleep, night sweating, yawning. To these I would add: depression,
sadness, mental confusion, poor memory, tiredness, poor appetite, scanty periods.
The Jin Gui Yao Lue describes this formula as such: “Women suffering from anxiety
are affected by sadness and crying, they are like lost souls [shen ling] and yawn
frequently: use Gan Mai Da Zao Tang.”4 Please note the reference to “women” as the
prescription is from the chapter on gynaecology. However, it should be stressed that this
formula is equally applicable to women and men.
It is an intriguing formula as it has a profound mental effect and yet it is composed of
only three apparently mild herbs, two of which are items of food as well as herbs, i.e wheat
husks and black dates.
I find this formula excellent when the patient is not only depressed and anxious but
also mentally confused and kind of “absent”. Often, this can be the result of heavy
cannabis use in the past.
I use this formula when these mental-emotional symptoms occur against a background
of deficiency of Qi of the Spleen, Heart and Lungs and of Heart-Blood deficiency.
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The second formula is Bai He Zhi Mu Tang Lilium-Anemarrhena Decoction originally
for the Lilium Syndrome (Bai He Bing) also described in the Essential Prescriptions of the
Golden Chest (Jin Gui Yao Lue), chapter 3-1. This syndrome sounds remarkably like the
description of a depressed patient.
The original text says: “The patient wants to eat, but is reluctant to swallow food and
unwilling to speak. He or she wants to lie in bed but cannot lie quietly as he or she is
restless. He or she wants to walk but is soon tired. Now and then he or she may enjoy
eating but cannot tolerate the smell of food. He or she feels cold or hot but without fever
or chills, bitter taste or dark urine [i.e. it is not external Wind nor internal Heat]. No drugs
are able to cure this syndrome. After taking the medicine the patient may vomit or have
diarrhoea. The disease haunts the patient (hu huo) [hu means “fox” and huo means
“bewildered”] and, although he or she looks normal, he or she is suffering. The pulse is
rapid.”5
I use this formula primarily when there is a deficiency of Yin of the Heart and Lungs
and the patient is anxious and sad. As the formula consists of only two herbs, I frequently
add this formula to another formula in any situation when a patient is depressed against a
background of a Lung and Heart syndrome, but especially Qi and Yin deficiency of these
two organs or Heart-Heat. The combination of these two herbs is particularly good to treat
sadness and grief.
Mental-emotional pattern
Key words: Centering Oneself.
The formula Gan Mai Da Zao Tang is a Qi and Blood tonic and it therefore stimulates
the movement of the Hun lifting depression. The second formula nourishes Yin of the
Lungs and Heart and therefore grounds the Po (Corporeal Soul) and Shen: it treats
particular sadness and grief. These two formulae together treat depression and anxiety.
Sadness and grief deplete Qi and therefore also affect the movement of the Hun causing
depression.
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Cautions and contraindications
There are no particular cautions or contraindications associated with this remedy.
Classical antecedent: Gan Mai Da Zao Tang (Glycyrrhiza-Triticum-Ziziphus Decoction)
and Bai He Zhi Mu Tang (Lilium-Anemarrhena Decoction).
Remedy in a nutshell: depression and anxiety occurring against a background of Qi,
Blood or Yin deficiency.
STRENGTHEN THE ROOT
Shu Di Huang Radix Rehmanniae preparata
Shan Yao Rhizoma Dioscoreae
Shan Zhu Yu Fructus Corni
Gou Qi Zi Fructus Lycii
Ba Ji Tian Radix Morindae officinalis
Tu Si Zi Semen Cuscutae
Du Zhong Cortex Eucommiae
Dang Gui Radix Angelicae sinensis
Rou Gui Cortex Cinnamomi
Gui Zhi Ramulus Cinnamomi
Zhi Gan Cao Radix Glycyrrhizae preparata
Ren Shen Radix Ginseng
Zhi Mu Rhizoma Anemarrhenae
Pattern: Kidney-Yang deficiency, Fire of Ming Men declining, slight Blood deficiency. "Fire of
the Gate of Life not nourishing Earth", "Cold in Lower Burner".
Action: Tonify and warm Kidney-Yang, stoke up the Fire of Ming Men, fill the Jing, nourish
Blood, strengthen the Will-Power.
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Indications: Chilliness, cold feet, cold limbs, lower backache, weak knees, dizziness, tinnitus,
depression, exhaustion, impotence, premature ejaculation, tiredness after sex, lack of libido,
infertility, loose stools, frequent-pale urination, slight incontinence of urine, oedema of ankles,
overweight body, lack of drive and enthusiasm, shortness of breath.
Tongue: Pale, wet.
Pulse: Deep and weak, especially in the rear positions. It could also be slow.
Explanation
Strengthen the Root is a variation of the “Restoring the Right [Kidney] Pill” (You Gui
Wan) prescription to tonify Kidney-Yang. This was chosen in preference to the “Golden
Chest Kidney-Qi Pill” as it provides a broader therapeutic range by nourishing Blood
(with Gou Qi Zi and Dang Gui) and by strengthening sinews and bones (with Du Zhong).
Ren Shen was added to tonify Qi and strengthen the Yuan Qi, and Zhi Mu to
counterbalance the hot nature of most of the herbs. This condition is characterized not only
by Kidney-Yang deficiency but also by Jing depletion. Kidney-Jing is the material basis
for all the Kidney's physiological activities. Jing has a Yin aspect and a Yang aspect; in
this case, its Yang aspect is deficient. Because Jing is the foundation for the Three
Treasures - Jing, Qi and Shen - a deficiency of its Yang aspect causes extreme exhaustion,
lack of drive and low spirits.
Severe deficiency of Kidney-Yang implies a weakening of the Fire of Ming Men
which, among its many functions, warms the Heart and assists its housing of the Mind
(Shen). For this reason, deficiency of the Fire of Ming Men causes mental depression.
From the channels' perspective, a deficiency of the Fire of Ming Men implies a deficiency
of the Governing Vessel (Du Mai) which originates from the space between the Kidneys
where the Yuan Qi throbs, flowing through the heart and entering the brain. Thus, by
linking Kidneys, Heart and Brain, it connects Jing, the Shen and the Brain, i.e. the three
aspects of the Mind and mental activities in Chinese medicine. For this reason, a
deficiency of the Fire of Ming Men and the Du Mai causes a person to be in low spirits,
depressed and lacking enthusiasm. The causes of this pattern are usually excessive
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physical work, especially lifting, a long, chronic disease and excessive sexual activity.
Strengthen the Root can be used for complex conditions characterized by a deficiency
of both Kidney-Yang and Kidney-Yin. Such conditions occur frequently, especially in
women. The manifestations might be, for example, dizziness, tinnitus, cold hands and feet,
frequent-pale urination, backache, pale tongue, night-sweating and hot flushes. However,
it should be stressed that this formula should be used only when the deficiency of KidneyYang predominates over that of Kidney-Yin and the tongue is therefore definitely pale.
Mental-emotional pattern
Key words: Facing the Truth.
Fear, shock and guilt may injure the Kidneys and cause this condition. However, these
emotions are often the result rather than the cause of Kidney-Yang deficiency, when this
stems from one of the causes mentioned above.
The person will feel mentally and physically exhausted, will be depressed and will lack
Will-power and spirit of initiative. He or she will have almost given up any hope of getting
better or of starting or changing anything in life. Everything is too much effort.
Caution and contraindications
The formula has a hot energy and, to prescribe it, one must be absolutely certain first of
all that the pattern is definitely one of pronounced Yang deficiency, and secondly that
there is not any Heat anywhere in the body. For example, it is quite possible to have
Damp-Heat in the Bladder occurring against a background of Kidney-Yang deficiency. In
such a case this formula should not be used, and one could consider either combining the
formula with Ease the Journey - Yin, or using Separate Clear and Turbid or Clear the
Root for a few months followed by Strengthen the Root once all signs of Damp-Heat
have gone.
Classical antecedent: You Gui Wan (Restoring the Right [Kidney] Pill).
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Remedy in a nutshell: general Kidney-Yang tonic.
Timing of administration: Take in the morning (or a higher dose in the morning),
ideally with a little, slightly salted, hot water.
TONIFY QI AND EASE THE MUSCLES
Huang Qi Radix Astragali
Ren Shen Radix Ginseng
Bai Zhu Rhizoma Atractylodis macrocephalae
Zhi Gan Cao Radix Glycyrrhizae preparata
Dang Gui Radix Angelicae sinensis
Chen Pi Pericarpium Citri reticulatae
Sheng Ma Rhizoma Cimicifugae
Chai Hu Radix Bupleuri
Sha Ren Fructus Amomi
Huo Xiang Herba Pogostemonis
Yi Yi Ren Semen Coicis
Fu Ling Poria
Pattern: Qi deficiency, residual Dampness in the muscles.
A c t i o n : Tonify Lung- and Spleen-Qi, raise Yang, lift depression, resolve Dampness from
the muscles.
I n d i c a t i o n s : Exhaustion, depression, dizziness, poor appetite, slight muscle ache and
fatigue, poor memory and concentration, slight breathlessness, prolapse of uterus,
stomach or bladder.
Tongue: Pale, teeth marks.
Pulse: Weak.
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Explanation
Tonify Qi and Ease the Muscles is a variation of the ancient formula “Tonifying the Centre
and Benefitting Qi Decoction” (Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang). The original formula specifically
treats a lingering low-grade fever deriving from Qi deficiency as a result of a chronic
illness. This is very often the pattern prevailing in chronic cases of chronic fatigue
syndrome. The formula has been modified primarily to address the condition of residual
Dampness that is seen so frequently in these cases. The symptom of muscle ache reflects
how much Dampness there is in the body: the more pronounced the muscle ache, the more
Dampness there is.
The pulse corresponding to the formula Tonify Qi and Ease the Muscles is on the
whole weak or empty and the muscle ache not pronounced. If the latter is pronounced and
the pulse is on the whole slippery, then one should choose a formula that is primarily
addressed at resolving Dampness and only secondarily at tonifying Qi - a formula such as
Ease the Muscles or Drain Fields. Although Tonify Qi and Ease the Muscles was
formulated specifically to treat chronic fatigue syndrome, it also has other clinical
applications. It can be used for prolapse of the stomach, uterus or bladder and also for
mental depression occurring against a background of Qi deficiency.
Mental-emotional pattern
Key words: Awaken Power.
The formula is particularly effective for mental depression, whether it is following
chronic fatigue syndrome or not. The person will feel very tired, depressed and
discouraged. He or she will feel vulnerable and over-sensitive to criticism.
Caution and contraindications
The formula is a Qi tonic with some Dampness-resolving
herbs and it therefore has hardly any contraindications
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Classical antecedent: Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang (Tonifying the Centre and Benefitting Qi
Decoction).
Remedy in a nutshell: tonify Qi and resolve Dampness in chronic fatigue syndrome.
WATER PASSAGES
Zhi Mu Radix Anemarrhenae
Huang Bo Cortex Phellodendri
Shu Di Huang Radix Rehmanniae preparata
Shan Yao Radix Dioscoreae
Shan Zhu Yu Fructus Corni
Mu Dan Pi Cortex Moutan
Fu Ling Poria
Ze Xie Rhizoma Alismatis
Che Qian Zi Semen Plantaginis
Qu Mai Herba Dianthi
Bian Xu Herba Polygoni avicularis
Bi Xie Rhizoma Dioscoreae hypoglaucae
Yi Yi Ren Semen Coicis
Huang Qi Radix Astragali
Chai Hu Radix Bupleuri
Gan Cao Radix Glycyrrhizae uralensis
Bai Shao Radix Paeoniae alba
Tu Si Zi Semen Cuscutae
Ze Lan Herba Lycopi
Pattern: Damp-Heat in the Bladder, Kidney deficiency, sinking of Qi.
Action: Resolve Dampness and clear Heat from the Bladder, tonify the Kidneys, lift Qi.
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Indications: Frequency of urination, difficult urination, urgency of urination, burning on
urination, hypogastric pain, backache, dizziness, tinnitus, tiredness, feeling of bearing down.
Explanation
Water Passages is a variation of Zhi Bo Di Huang Wan (Anemarrhena-PhellodendronRehmannia Pill) which nourishes Kidney-Yin and resolves Damp-Heat from the Bladder. The
formula has been modified to treat chronic urinary symptoms such as interstitial cystitis. In my
experience, in interstitial cystitis there is often a Kidney deficiency and a sinking of Qi: this
causes frequent urination and often a sight incontinence. Besides a Kidney deficiency, there is
always Dampness in the urinary passages.
The first eight herbs, Huang Bo Zhi Mu, Shu Di Huang, Shan Zhu Yu, Shan Yao, Ze Xie, Mu
Dan Pi and Fu Ling constitute the root formula Zhi Bo Di Huang Wan.
Che Qian Zi, Qu Mai, Bian Xu, Bi Xie and Yi Yi Ren resolve Dampness from the urinary
passages. Huang Qi and Chai Hu lift sinking Qi to help frequent urination an possible slight
incontinence.
Bai Shao was added to “moderate urgency”, i.e. frequent urination and urgency of urination.
Tu Si Zi was added to tonify Kidney-Yang and Ze Lan to resolve Dampness and invigorate
Blood.
Mental-emotional pattern
Key words: No Shame
Tonifying the Kidneys tonifies the Zhi, i.e. will-power, determination, enthusiasm, resilience.
This person will often lack these qualities due to excessive caring for others to the detriment of
oneself. The lack of will-power and determination is often a feature of depression.
Dampness is “sticky” and “dirty” and its emotional counterpart is often shame. Shame is also
“sticky” and makes one feel “dirty”. The interaction of the lack of enthusiasm of the Zhi of the
Kidneys and the feeling of shame is truly paralyzing. This formula allows the person to escape
this vicious circle, restoring determination and letting one accept oneself.
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Caution and contraindications
Provided the formula fits the patterns (Kidney deficiency and Dampness in the urinary passages),
there are no specific contrandications.
Classical antecedent: Zhi Bo Di Huang Wan (Anemarrhena-Phellodendron-Rehmannia Pill).
Remedy in a nutshell: chronic urinary problems against a background of Dampness and Kidney
deficiency.
WELCOME FRAGRANCE
Bo He Herba Menthae haplocalycis
Shi Chang Pu Rhizoma Acori tatarinowii
Xin Yi Hua Flos Magnoliae
Bai Zhi Radix Angelicae dahuricae
Jie Geng Radix Platycodi
Huang Qin Radix Scutellariae
Jin Yin Hua Flos Lonicerae
Yu Xing Cao Herba Houttuniae
Huo Xiang Herba Pogostemonis
Pu Gong Ying Herba Taraxaci
Bai Zhu Rhizoma Atractylodis macrocephalae
Huang Qi Radix Astragali
Gan Cao Radix Glycyrrhizae
Pattern: Chronic Damp-Heat and Toxic Heat blocking the nose and sinuses with an
underlying deficiency of Qi.
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Action: Expel Wind, clear Heat, resolve Toxic Heat, drain Dampness, open the nose
orifices, tonify Qi.
Indications: Sinusitis, facial pain, nasal discharge which is yellow and thick or even
purulent, blocked nose, loss of smell, frontal headache, tiredness.
Tongue: Sticky-yellow coating.
Pulse: Slippery.
Explanation
Welcome Fragrance is a new formula which is aimed at treating chronic sinusitis, an
extremely common condition in Western patients. The formula resolves Damp-Heat and
Toxic Heat, expels Wind from the nose and sinuses and also tonifies Qi (with Huang Qi
and Bai Zhu). It should be differentiated from Jade Screen. The former is primarily for
sinusitis manifesting as a yellow-thick nasal discharge, while the latter is for allergic
rhinitis, manifesting as a white-watery nasal discharge. Both formulae treat the
Manifestation rather than the Root. This formula, therefore, is not for allergic rhinitis,
which is characterized by a white-watery-clear nasal discharge and sneezing. Thus an
essential indication for the use of the formula is a yellow-sticky nasal discharge.
The Herbal Sentinel (Yin or Yang) can be used to treat the Root in cases of sinusitis,
after using Welcome Fragrance.
In a case of allergic rhinitis, consider using Jade Screen, which may be combined with
the Herbal Sentinel (Yin or Yang) for a stronger tonic effect and to treat the Root.
Bo He and Xin Yi Hua expel Wind from the nose. Shi Chang Pu and Bai Zhi open the
orifices of the nose. Jie Geng directs the formula to the head. Huang Qin resolves DampHeat. Jin Yin Hua, Yu Xing Cao and Pu Gong Ying resolve Toxic Heat. Huo Xiang expels
Wind and resolves Dampness. Bai Zhu and Huang Qi tonify Qi.
Mental-emotional pattern
Key word: Relating.
The formula helps the patient to discriminate clearly between issues and to develop clarity
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of judgement. The pattern related to the formula can be caused by resentment, pensiveness
or obsessive thinking over a long period of time. The patient will feel confused and
anxious about life's issues and he or she will have difficulty in relating to other
people.
Caution and contraindications
The formula contains some bitter-cold herbs to resolve Toxic Heat; over a long period of
time, these may have the tendency to weaken the Spleen. Therefore the formula should not
be used for more than 3 - 4 months at a time without a break. If it is used in conjunction
with acupuncture treatment, this can be aimed at tonifying the Lungs and
Spleen in order to treat the Root.
Remedy in a nutshell: sinusitis and sinus congestion.
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END NOTES
1. 1979 The Yellow Emperor’s Classic of Internal Medicine-Simple Questions (Huang Di Nei
Jing Su Wen), p. 151. People’s Health Publishing House, Beijing, first published c. 100 BC.
2. Zhang Jie Bin (also called Zhang Jing Yue) 1982 Classic of Categories (Lei Jing). People’s
Health Publishing House, Beijing, first published in 1624, p. 424.
3. 1981 Spiritual Axis (Ling Shu Jing), People’s Health Publishing House, Beijing, first
published c. 100 BC., p. 24.
4. He Ren 2005 Essential Prescriptions of the Golden Chest (Jin Gui Yao Lue), People’s Health
Publishing House, Beijing, p. 83. The Essential Prescriptions of the Golden Chest was written by
Zhang Zhong Jing and first published c. AD 220.
5. A New Explanation of the Essential Prescriptions of the Golden Chest, p. 26.