Formulas - Release Exterior Flashcards
What formula is best for the following symptoms of externally-contracted wind-cold with phlegm and thin mucus in the interior in patients with a qi deficient constitution?
Shen Su Yin Ginseng and Perilla Leaf Drink (Release Exterior: Warming) Pulse: Frail (deficiency/depletion) Tongue: White coating
Fever and chills Headache Nasal congestion Productive cough Stifling sensation in the chest
ingredients ren shen (22.5g) zi su ye (22.5g) ge gen (22.5g) jiang ban xia (22.5g) qian hu (22.5g) fu ling (22.5g) mu xiang (15g) fu chao zhi ke (15g) - bran fried Aurantii Fructus ji geng (15g) zhi gan cao (15g) — chief, deputy, assistant & envoy not noted in Bensky
Shen Su Yin
Ginseng and Perilla Leaf Drink
What formula is best for the following symptoms of externally-contracted wind-cold with phlegm and thin mucus in the interior in patients with a qi deficient constitution?
(Release Exterior: Warming)
Pulse: Frail (deficiency/depletion)
Tongue: White coating
Fever and chills Headache Nasal congestion Productive cough Stifling sensation in the chest
ingredients ren shen (22.5g) zi su ye (22.5g) ge gen (22.5g) jiang ban xia (22.5g) qian hu (22.5g) fu ling (22.5g) mu xiang (15g) fu chao zhi ke (15g) - bran fried Aurantii Fructus ji geng (15g) zhi gan cao (15g) — chief, deputy, assistant & envoy not noted in Bensky
What formula is best for the following symptoms of exterior cold in a patient with pre-existing yang deficiency?
Ma Huang Xi Xin Fu Zi Tang
Ephedra, Asarum, and Aconite Accessory Root Decoction
(Release Exterior: Warming)
Pulse: Submerged, faint
Tongue: Not in Bensky
Slight fever with severe chills that is not relieved by wearing more clothing or adding covers
Exhaustion with an almost constant desire to sleep
ingredients
ma huang (6g) - chief – induces sweating, releases exterior and disperses cold.
zhi fu zi (9g) - deputy – warms kidneys and assists the yang. (hot-spicy-toxic)
xi xin (6g) - assistant – helps the chief herb release the exterior and the deputy to scatter interior cold. Also enters the laser yin KI channel to help focus the actions of the formula on the lesser yin warp symptoms
CC: This formula may safely be used to release the exterior only in those cases where the underlying yang deficiency is mild. Where the deficiency is more severe (characterized by undigested food in the stool and a faint, almost imperceptible pulse), this formula is contraindicated, as its use could devastate the yang.
Ma Huang Xi Xin Fu Zi Tang
Ephedra, Asarum, and Aconite Accessory Root Decoction
What formula is best for the following symptoms of exterior cold in a patient with pre-existing yang deficiency?
(Release Exterior: Warming)
Pulse: Submerged, faint
Tongue: Not in Bensky
Slight fever with severe chills that is not relieved by wearing more clothing or adding covers
Exhaustion with an almost constant desire to sleep
ingredients
ma huang (6g) - chief – induces sweating, releases exterior and disperses cold.
zhi fu zi (9g) - deputy – warms kidneys and assists the yang. (hot-spicy-toxic)
xi xin (6g) - assistant – helps the chief herb release the exterior and the deputy to scatter interior cold. Also enters the laser yin KI channel to help focus the actions of the formula on the lesser yin warp symptoms
CC: This formula may safely be used to release the exterior only in those cases where the underlying yang deficiency is mild. Where the deficiency is more severe (characterized by undigested food in the stool and a faint, almost imperceptible pulse), this formula is contraindicated, as its use could devastate the yang.
Gui Zhi Shao Yao Zhi Mu Tang
Cinnamon Twig, White Peony and Anemarrhena Decoction
What formula is best for the following symptoms of recurrent wind-cold-damp painful obstruction in which localized constraint generates heat?
(Release Exterior: Warming)
Pulse: Wiry, slippery
Tongue: White, greasy coating
Swollen and painful joints (especially of the lower extremities) that are warm to the touch and worsen at night Reduced range of motion in the affected joints Chills Absence of sweating Weight loss Headache Dizziness Shortness of breath A feeling as if one wants to vomit
ingredients gui zhi (12g) - chief, warms & unblocks the channels ma huang (6g) - deputy — strengthens this effect and relieve superficial swelling bao fu zi (15g) - deputy — warms the channels and relives pain zhi mu (12g) - deputy — w/bai shao this herb works to clear heat & prevent injury to yin by recurrent painful obstruction bai shao (9g) - deputy bai zhu (15g) - assistant works with the chief to unblock the flow of yang qi and leach out dampness - (if wondering why this herb is included, it is stronger than fu ling to leach out damp) fang feng (12g) - assistant — strengthens the formula's function of expelling wind and damp sheng jiang (15g) - envoy — strengthens the spreading and mobilizing actions of the other herbs gan cao (6g) - envoy — harmonizes other herbs ---- ***all the warm herbs in this mix are about mobilization
What formula is best for the following symptoms of recurrent wind-cold-damp painful obstruction in which localized constraint generates heat?
Gui Zhi Shao Yao Zhi Mu Tang
Cinnamon Twig, White Peony and Anemarrhena Decoction
(Release Exterior: Warming)
Pulse: Wiry, slippery
Tongue: White, greasy coating
Swollen and painful joints (especially of the lower extremities) that are warm to the touch and worsen at night Reduced range of motion in the affected joints Chills Absence of sweating Weight loss Headache Dizziness Shortness of breath A feeling as if one wants to vomit
ingredients gui zhi (12g) - chief, warms & unblocks the channels ma huang (6g) - deputy — strengthens this effect and relieve superficial swelling bao fu zi (15g) - deputy — warms the channels and relives pain zhi mu (12g) - deputy — w/bai shao this herb works to clear heat & prevent injury to yin by recurrent painful obstruction bai shao (9g) - deputy bai zhu (15g) - assistant works with the chief to unblock the flow of yang qi and leach out dampness - (if wondering why this herb is included, it is stronger than fu ling to leach out damp) fang feng (12g) - assistant — strengthens the formula's function of expelling wind and damp sheng jiang (15g) - envoy — strengthens the spreading and mobilizing actions of the other herbs gan cao (6g) - envoy — harmonizes other herbs ---- ***all the warm herbs in this mix are about mobilization
What formula is best for the following symptoms of externally-contracted wind-cold with concurrent internal injury due to dampness and stagnation?
Huo Xiang Zheng Qi San
Patchouli/Agastache Powder to Rectify the Qi
(Release Exterior: Warming)
Pulse: Moderate, soggy
Tongue: White, greasy coating
Fever and chills Headache Sensation of fullness and stifling oppression in the chest Pain in the epigastrium and abdomen Nausea and vomiting Borborygmus - bubbling in stomach Diarrhea Loss of taste sudden turmoil
ingredients
huo xiang (12g) - chief — disperses wind-cold, transforms turbid dampness, revives the spleen, stops vomiting
jiang chao hou po (9g) - deputy
chen pi (9g) - deputy — these first 2 deputies move the qi and promotes proper water metabolism to expand the chest and reduce fullness or stifling sensation in chest
zi su ye (6g) - deputy
bai zhi (6g) - deputy — the second two deputies help the chief herb dispel externally contracted cold (bai zhi also treats headache
zhi ban xia (9g) - assistant — harmonizes the stomach and stop vomiting
da fu pi (9g) - assistant — focuses on the lower burner // both act on qi mechanism
bai zhu (12g) - assistant
fu ling (9g) - assistant — these two assistants strengthen the spleen and transform dampness
jie geng (9g) - assistant — promotes the proper function of the lungs and diaphragm
zhi gan cao (3g) - harmonizes the actions of the other herbs to regulate spleen and stomach
CC: Because this formula contains warm and drying herbs, it should not be used without significant modification for conditions of wind-heat or fire due to deficiency.
Huo Xiang Zheng Qi San
Patchouli/Agastache Powder to Rectify the Qi
What formula is best for the following symptoms of externally-contracted wind-cold with concurrent internal injury due to dampness and stagnation?
(Release Exterior: Warming)
Pulse: Moderate, soggy
Tongue: White, greasy coating
Fever and chills Headache Sensation of fullness and stifling oppression in the chest Pain in the epigastrium and abdomen Nausea and vomiting Borborygmus - bubbling in stomach Diarrhea Loss of taste sudden turmoil
ingredients
huo xiang (12g) - chief — disperses wind-cold, transforms turbid dampness, revives the spleen, stops vomiting
jiang chao hou po (9g) - deputy
chen pi (9g) - deputy — these first 2 deputies move the qi and promotes proper water metabolism to expand the chest and reduce fullness or stifling sensation in chest
zi su ye (6g) - deputy
bai zhi (6g) - deputy — the second two deputies help the chief herb dispel externally contracted cold (bai zhi also treats headache
zhi ban xia (9g) - assistant — harmonizes the stomach and stop vomiting
da fu pi (9g) - assistant — focuses on the lower burner // both act on qi mechanism
bai zhu (12g) - assistant
fu ling (9g) - assistant — these two assistants strengthen the spleen and transform dampness
jie geng (9g) - assistant — promotes the proper function of the lungs and diaphragm
zhi gan cao (3g) - harmonizes the actions of the other herbs to regulate spleen and stomach
CC: Because this formula contains warm and drying herbs, it should not be used without significant modification for conditions of wind-heat or fire due to deficiency.
What formula is best for the following symptoms of externally-contracted wind-cold-dampness with concurrent internal accumulation of heat?
Jiu Wei Qiang Huo Tang
Nine-Herb Decoction with Notopterygium
(Release Exterior: Warming)
Pulse: Floating
Tongue: White coating
Fever and chills (chills predominant) without sweating Headache Stiff neck Generalized aches and pain Slight thirst Bitter taste in the mouth
ingredients qiang huo (4.5g) - chief — disperses exterior wind cold dampness fang feng (4.5g) - deputy can zhu (4.5g) - deputy — these first two deputies assist the chief in releasing the exterior and eliminating dampness xi xin (1.5g) - deputy chuan xiong (3g) -deputy bai zhi (3g) - deputy - these three deputies treat the head and body aches huang qin (3g) -assistant sheng di huang (3g) - assistant — these two assistant clear qi and blood level interior heat, treating thirst and bitter taste gan cao (3g) - envoy — harmonizes the middle burner and the actions of other herbs
CC: Due to its acrid and drying nature, this formula is contraindicated in warm pathogen diseases (including damp-warmth disorders). It should be used with great care in patients who tend toward yin deficiency.
Wei Qiang Huo Tang
Nine-Herb Decoction with Notopterygium
What formula is best for the following symptoms of externally-contracted wind-cold-dampness with concurrent internal accumulation of heat?
(Release Exterior: Warming)
Pulse: Floating
Tongue: White coating
Fever and chills (chills predominant) without sweating Headache Stiff neck Generalized aches and pain Slight thirst Bitter taste in the mouth
ingredients qiang huo (4.5g) - chief — disperses exterior wind cold dampness fang feng (4.5g) - deputy can zhu (4.5g) - deputy — these first two deputies assist the chief in releasing the exterior and eliminating dampness xi xin (1.5g) - deputy chuan xiong (3g) -deputy bai zhi (3g) - deputy - these three deputies treat the head and body aches huang qin (3g) -assistant sheng di huang (3g) - assistant — these two assistant clear qi and blood level interior heat, treating thirst and bitter taste gan cao (3g) - envoy — harmonizes the middle burner and the actions of other herbs
CC: Due to its acrid and drying nature, this formula is contraindicated in warm pathogen diseases (including damp-warmth disorders). It should be used with great care in patients who tend toward yin deficiency.
Qiang Huo Sheng Shi Tang
Notopterygium Dispel Damp Decoction
(Release Exterior: Warming)
What formula is best for the following symptoms of painful obstruction with wind-dampness being predominant?
Pulse: Floating
Tongue: White coating
A heavy and painful head Generalized sensation of heaviness Back pain or generalized pain Stiffness of the neck Difficulty in rotating or bending the trunk Mild fever Chills
ingredients
qiang huo (3g) - chief — expels wind-damp from upper reaches of the greater yang
du huo (3g) - chief — expels wind damp from lower reaches of the channel
gao ben (1.5g) - deputy
fang feng (1.5g) - deputy — these two deputies expel wind damp from exterior aspects of greater yang channel and treat headache
chuan xiong (1.5g) - assistant — treats headache and invigorates blood and relieves generalized heaviness and pain
man jing zi (0.9g) - assistant — treats headache
zhi gan cao (1.5g) - envoy — harmonizes the actions of the other herbs
CC: Use with caution in patients with constitutional yin deficiency, or for any condition with heat.
What formula is best for the following symptoms of painful obstruction with wind-dampness being predominant?
Qiang Huo Sheng Shi Tang
Notopterygium Dispel Damp Decoction
(Release Exterior: Warming)
Pulse: Floating
Tongue: White coating
A heavy and painful head Generalized sensation of heaviness Back pain or generalized pain Stiffness of the neck Difficulty in rotating or bending the trunk Mild fever Chills
ingredients
qiang huo (3g) - chief — expels wind-damp from upper reaches of the greater yang
du huo (3g) - chief — expels wind damp from lower reaches of the channel
gao ben (1.5g) - deputy
fang feng (1.5g) - deputy — these two deputies expel wind damp from exterior aspects of greater yang channel and treat headache
chuan xiong (1.5g) - assistant — treats headache and invigorates blood and relieves generalized heaviness and pain
man jing zi (0.9g) - assistant — treats headache
zhi gan cao (1.5g) - envoy — harmonizes the actions of the other herbs
CC: Use with caution in patients with constitutional yin deficiency, or for any condition with heat.
Xing Su San
Apricot Kernel and Perilla Leaf Powder
(Release Exterior: Warming)
Pulse: wiry
Tongue: dry, white coating
Sight headache, chills w/out sweating, cough with watery sputum, stuffy nose, dry throat
ingredients
zi su ye (6-9g) - chief – releases exterior cold by producing moderate sweating
qian hu (6-9g) - deputy - directs qi downward and releases exterior
xing ren (6-9g) - chief –disseminates LU qi, stops cough
jie geng (6g) - deputy – causes LU qi to descend & stops coughing
zhi ke (6g) - deputy – moves the qi, expands the chest, stops cough by regulating qi
chen pi (6g) - assistant
fu ling (6-9g) - assistant
zhi ban xia (6-9g) - assistant – all the assistants work to relate the qi of the middle burner and transform phlegm
sheng jiang 2-3 pieces - envoy
da zao 2-3 pieces - envoy
gan cao (3g) - envoy – the envoys all work to harmonize the actions of the other herbs and regulate the nutritive and protective qi.
Ren Shen Bai Du San
Ginseng Powder to Overcome Pathogenic Influences
(Release Exterior: Warming)
What formula is best for the following symptoms of externally-contracted wind-cold-dampness battling the body’s deficient normal qi, which is unable to expel the pathogenic influences?
Pulse: Floating, soggy
Tongue: Greasy, white coating
High fever accompanied by severe chills and shivering
Absence of sweating
Pain and stiffness of the head and neck
Soreness and pain of the extremities
Focal distention and fullness of the chest
Nasal congestion with loud nasal breathing
A productive cough
ingredients qiang huo (30g) - chief du huo (30g) - chief — the two chief herbs dispel damp and alleviate pain and address fever, chills w/out sweating, headache, generalized pain and soreness chuan xiong (30g) - deputy - moves blood and dispels wind to aid in pain relief chai hu (30g) - deputy — reduces fever and expels pathogenic influences jie geng (30g) - deputy fu chao zhi ke (30g) - deputy — these two deputies (jie geng/zhi ke) regulate the flow of qi in the chest qian hu (30g) - deputy — improves circulation of lung qi, expels phlegm and stops coughing ren shen (30g) - assitant — strengthens the normal qi, generates fluids and strengthens body's resistance to invasions to prevent a relapse fu ling (30g) - assistant — leaches out dampness gan cao (15g) - envoy — assists ren shen in tonifying qi and harmonizes the actions of the other herbs
CC: Because of the warm, drying properties of many of the ingredients, it is important to remember that this formula is indicated only for externally-contracted wind-cold-dampness and is contraindicated for cases due to heat or damp-heat.
What formula is best for the following symptoms of externally-contracted wind-cold-dampness battling the body’s deficient normal qi, which is unable to expel the pathogenic influences?
Ren Shen Bai Du San
Ginseng Powder to Overcome Pathogenic Influences
(Release Exterior: Warming)
Pulse: Floating, soggy
Tongue: Greasy, white coating
High fever accompanied by severe chills and shivering
Absence of sweating
Pain and stiffness of the head and neck
Soreness and pain of the extremities
Focal distention and fullness of the chest
Nasal congestion with loud nasal breathing
A productive cough
ingredients qiang huo (30g) - chief du huo (30g) - chief — the two chief herbs dispel damp and alleviate pain and address fever, chills w/out sweating, headache, generalized pain and soreness chuan xiong (30g) - deputy - moves blood and dispels wind to aid in pain relief chai hu (30g) - deputy — reduces fever and expels pathogenic influences jie geng (30g) - deputy fu chao zhi ke (30g) - deputy — these two deputies (jie geng/zhi ke) regulate the flow of qi in the chest qian hu (30g) - deputy — improves circulation of lung qi, expels phlegm and stops coughing ren shen (30g) - assitant — strengthens the normal qi, generates fluids and strengthens body's resistance to invasions to prevent a relapse fu ling (30g) - assistant — leaches out dampness gan cao (15g) - envoy — assists ren shen in tonifying qi and harmonizes the actions of the other herbs
CC: Because of the warm, drying properties of many of the ingredients, it is important to remember that this formula is indicated only for externally-contracted wind-cold-dampness and is contraindicated for cases due to heat or damp-heat.
Xiang Ru San
Mosla Powder
(Relieve Summerheat/Release Exterior)
What formula is best for the following symptoms of exterior cold with interior dampness contracted in the summer?
Pulse: Floating
Tongue: White, greasy coating
Chills with skin that is warm to the touch An absence of sweating A sensation of heaviness in the head Headache Abdominal pain Vomiting Diarrhea A stifling sensation in the chest Fatigued extremities
ingredients*
xiang ru (9-12g) - chief — stimulates sweating and releases exterior cold
chao bian dou (6-9g) - deputy
jiang hou po (6-9g) — assistant
CC: Using this in those with summerheat that is NOT yin summerheat (i.e. Yang summerheat), will severely injure the fluids and qi, increase heat in the body, and significantly aggravate the condition.
What formula is best for the following symptoms of exterior cold with interior dampness contracted in the summer?
Summerheat release exterior
Xiang Ru San
Mosla Powder
Pulse: Floating
Tongue: White, greasy coating
Chills with skin that is warm to the touch An absence of sweating A sensation of heaviness in the head Headache Abdominal pain Vomiting Diarrhea A stifling sensation in the chest Fatigued extremities
ingredients*
xiang ru (9-12g) - chief — stimulates sweating and releases exterior cold
chao bian dou (6-9g) - deputy
jiang hou po (6-9g) — assistant
CC: Using this in those with summerheat that is NOT yin summerheat (i.e. Yang summerheat), will severely injure the fluids and qi, increase heat in the body, and significantly aggravate the condition.
Zhi Sou San
Stop Coughing Powder
(Release Exterior: Warming)
What formula is best for the following symptoms of cough that occurs as the sequela to externally-contracted wind-cold?
Pulse: Moderate, floating
Tongue: Thin, white coating
Coughing with or without slight chills and fever
An itchy throat
Phlegm that is difficult to expectorate
ingredients jie geng (960g) - deputy — the two deputies focus on opening constrained lung qi jing jie (960g) - assistant — slight exterior releasing action to help eliminate lingering pathogenic influence zi wan (960g) - chief bai bu (960g) - chief — the two chiefs warm without causing heat and moisten without being cold, stop coughing transform phlegm in acute and chronic disorders bai qian (960g) - deputy gan cao (360g) - envoy — harmonizes the other herbs chen pi (480g) - assistant — regulates qi (MOVES QI) to transform phlegm
CC: This formula has a tendency to dry and should therefore not be used in treating coughs associated with yin deficiency. It was designed for treating wind-cold and should not be used, without modification, in treating coughs due to heat in the LU.
What formula is best for the following symptoms of cough that occurs as the sequela to externally-contracted wind-cold?
(Release Exterior: Warming)
Zhi Sou San
Stop Coughing Powder
Pulse: Moderate, floating
Tongue: Thin, white coating
Coughing with or without slight chills and fever
An itchy throat
Phlegm that is difficult to expectorate
ingredients jie geng (960g) - deputy — the two deputies focus on opening constrained lung qi jing jie (960g) - assistant — slight exterior releasing action to help eliminate lingering pathogenic influence zi wan (960g) - chief bai bu (960g) - chief — the two chiefs warm without causing heat and moisten without being cold, stop coughing transform phlegm in acute and chronic disorders bai qian (960g) - deputy gan cao (360g) - envoy — harmonizes the other herbs chen pi (480g) - assistant — regulates qi (MOVES QI) to transform phlegm
CC: This formula has a tendency to dry and should therefore not be used in treating coughs associated with yin deficiency. It was designed for treating wind-cold and should not be used, without modification, in treating coughs due to heat in the LU.
Jia Jian Wei Ru Tang / Modified Soloman’s Seal Decoction
What formula is for fever with slight chills, dry mouth, thirst, irritability and a rapid pulse? hint cools the blood….
Pulse: Rapid
Tongue: Dark red
Fever, slight chills, little or no sweating, headache, dry throat, cough, sputum which is difficult to expectorate, thirst irritability — Nourishes yin, clears heat, induces sweating & releases exterior
ingredients
yu zhu (6-9g) - chief – nourishes yin of LU & ST, clears heat, generates fluids
cong bai (6g) - deputy
jie geng (3-4.5g) - assistant – disseminates LU qi to stop cough/expel phlegm
dan dou chi (9-12g) - deputy
bo he (3-4.5g)- deputy – all the deputies work together to mildly release exterior and dispel wind-heat
bai wei (1.5-3g)- assistant – cools blood, clears heat w/out injuring yin and treats thirst & irritability
zhi gan cao (1.5g) - envoy
da zao 2 pieces - envoy – the two envoys harmonize the other ingredients and moisten dryness
What formula is for fever with slight chills, dry mouth, thirst, irritability and a rapid pulse? hint cools the blood….
Jia Jian Wei Ru Tang / Modified Soloman’s Seal Decoction
Pulse: Rapid
Tongue: Dark red
Fever, slight chills, little or no sweating, headache, dry throat, cough, sputum which is difficult to expectorate, thirst irritability — Nourishes yin, clears heat, induces sweating & releases exterior
ingredients
yu zhu (6-9g) - chief – nourishes yin of LU & ST, clears heat, generates fluids
cong bai (6g) - deputy
jie geng (3-4.5g) - assistant – disseminates LU qi to stop cough/expel phlegm
dan dou chi (9-12g) - deputy
bo he (3-4.5g)- deputy – all the deputies work together to mildly release exterior and dispel wind-heat
bai wei (1.5-3g)- assistant – cools blood, clears heat w/out injuring yin and treats thirst & irritability
zhi gan cao (1.5g) - envoy
da zao 2 pieces - envoy – the two envoys harmonize the other ingredients and moisten dryness
Qing Zao Jui Fei Tang
clear Dryness and Rescue the Lungs Decoction
Pulse: deficient, large, rapid pulse
Tongue: dry, without coating
release exterior : warming
—>White Mulberry
Clears dryness, moistens lungs
Headache, fever hacking cough wheezing, dry parched throat, dry nasal passages, sensation of fullness in the chest, hypochondriac pain, irritability, thirst
Qing Zao Jui Fei Tang
clear Dryness and Rescue the Lungs Decoction
(Release Exterior: Warming)
common symptom
—>White Mulberry
common symptoms
fever and chills (chills predominant), floating pulse, normal tongue
Cong Chi Tang
Scallion and Prepared Soybean Decoction
(Release Exterior: Warming)
What formula is best for the following symptoms of the earliest stage of an externally-contracted wind-cold or wind-heat disorder?
Pulse: floating
Tongue: thin, white coating
Actions/Indications: Unblocks the yang (protective qi) in the exterior and induces sweating Mild fever Slight chills without sweating Headache Stuffy nose
ingredients:
cong bai 3-5 stalks (9-12g)
dan dou chi (12-30g)
no notation in Bensky on which herb is taking on which role — Cong bai is inducing sweating and unblocking the flow of protective qi and Dan Dou Chi releases both exterior and constrained yang qi in the interior. They both seem to be working in harmony to gently release and restore. EITHER COULD BE CHIEF DEPENDING ON IF YOU ARE TREATING HOT OR COLD*
What formula is best for the following symptoms of the earliest stage of an externally-contracted wind-cold or wind-heat disorder?
Cong Chi Tang
Scallion and Prepared Soybean Decoction
(Release Exterior: Warming)
Ma Huang Tang
Ephedra Decoction
Ma Huang Tang
Ephedra Decoction
(Release Exterior: Warming)
What formula is best for the following symptoms of wind-cold attacking the exterior where it fetters, constrains, or “bottles up” the protective qi?
Pulse: Floating, tight
Tongue: White coating
Actions/Indications Fever and chills (chills predominant) without sweating Headache Generalized body aches Release Exterior/arrest Wheezing
ingredients ma huang (9g) - chief — induces sweating, opens up LU constraint, enters the BL and functions as a diuretic. It eases out cold that has penetrated into the greater yang. gui zhi (6g) deputy — makes sure the protective qi and nutritive qi (wei & ying) are in harmony xing ren (70 pieces or 9-12g) assistant — directs LU qi downward to help ma huang arrest wheezing. Since it's oily, it moderates the acrid nature of the two main diaphoretic herbs zhi gan cao (3g) - envoy — moderates diaphoretic action of other herbs and helps harmonize them. Also enters all the channels
CC: In the Shang Han Lun this formula is contraindicated for patients who are prone to bleeding (especially from the nose). Because of the adrenergic effects of ma huang this formula should be used with caution in cases with hypertension. In addition, it is designed only to be used for very short periods of time.
Jing Fang Bai Du San
Schizonepeta and Saposhnikovia Powder to Overcome Pathogenic Influences
(Release Exterior: Warming)
What formula
What formula is best for the following symptoms of wind-cold attacking the exterior where it fetters, constrains, or “bottles up” the protective qi?
Ma Huang Tang
Ephedra Decoction
(Release Exterior: Warming)
Ma Huang Tang
Ephedra Decoction
(Release Exterior: Warming)
What formula is best for the following symptoms of wind-cold attacking the exterior where it fetters, constrains, or “bottles up” the protective qi?
Pulse: Floating, tight
Tongue: White coating
Actions/Indications Fever and chills (chills predominant) without sweating Headache Generalized body aches Release Exterior/arrest Wheezing
ingredients ma huang (9g) - chief — induces sweating, opens up LU constraint, enters the BL and functions as a diuretic. It eases out cold that has penetrated into the greater yang. gui zhi (6g) deputy — makes sure the protective qi and nutritive qi (wei & ying) are in harmony xing ren (70 pieces or 9-12g) assistant — directs LU qi downward to help ma huang arrest wheezing. Since it's oily, it moderates the acrid nature of the two main diaphoretic herbs zhi gan cao (3g) - envoy — moderates diaphoretic action of other herbs and helps harmonize them. Also enters all the channels
CC: In the Shang Han Lun this formula is contraindicated for patients who are prone to bleeding (especially from the nose). Because of the adrenergic effects of ma huang this formula should be used with caution in cases with hypertension. In addition, it is designed only to be used for very short periods of time.
Jing Fang Bai Du San
Schizonepeta and Saposhnikovia Powder to Overcome Pathogenic Influences
(Release Exterior: Warming)
What formula
Jing Fang Bai Du San
Schizonepeta and Saposhnikovia Powder to Overcome Pathogenic Influences
(Release Exterior: Warming)
Jing Fang Bai Du San
Schizonepeta and Saposhnikovia Powder to Overcome Pathogenic Influences
(Release Exterior: Warming)
What formula is best for the following symptoms of externally-contracted wind-cold-dampness, or early-stage abscesses or sores that are red, swollen, and painful?
Jing Fang Bai Du San
Schizonepeta and Saposhnikovia Powder to Overcome Pathogenic Influences
(Release Exterior: Warming)
What formula is best for the following symptoms of externally-contracted wind-cold-dampness, or early-stage abscesses or sores that are red, swollen, and painful?
Pulse: Floating
Tongue: Thin, white coating
Fever and chills without sweating
Pain and stiffness of the head and neck
Generalized body aches and pain - for more sever presentation that in original formula and occurring in those with no underlying qi deficiency (modification of Ren Shen Bai Du San)
ingredients jing jie (4.5g) - release ext. fang feng (4.5g) - release ext. - early stage abscesses chai hu (4.5g) qian hu (4.5g) chuan xiong (4.5g) qiang huo (4.5g) du huo (4.5g) fu ling (4.5g) jie geng (4.5g) zhi ke (4.5g) gan cao (1.5g) sheng jiang (3 pieces)
Xiang Su San
Cyperus and Perilla Leaf Powder
Xiang Su San
Cyperus and Perilla Leaf Powder
(Release Exterior: Warming)
What formula is best for the following symptoms of exterior wind-cold that occurs in conjunction with qi constraint in the interior?
Pulse: Floating
Tongue: Thin, white coating
Action: Promotes sweating
Indication: For the common “cold,” headache, stiff neck, nasal obstruction, runny nose, aches and pains in the body/extremities, fever w/chills, aversion to wind but w/out sweating
Ingredients zi su ye (4.5g) - chief — relieving dampness - seafood poisoning xiang fu (3.6g) - assistant — qi mover chen pi (3.6g) - assistant — qi mover zhi gan cao (2.1g) -envoy
What formula is best for the following symptoms of exterior wind-cold that occurs in conjunction with qi constraint in the interior?
Xiang Su San
Cyperus and Perilla Leaf Powder
(Release Exterior: Warming)
What formula is best for the following symptoms of exterior wind-cold that occurs in conjunction with qi constraint in the interior?
Pulse: Floating
Tongue: Thin, white coating
Action: Promotes sweating
Indication: For the common “cold,” headache, stiff neck, nasal obstruction, runny nose, aches and pains in the body/extremities, fever w/chills, aversion to wind but w/out sweating
Ingredients zi su ye (4.5g) - chief — relieving dampness - seafood poisoning xiang fu (3.6g) - assistant — qi mover chen pi (3.6g) - assistant — qi mover zhi gan cao (2.1g) -envoy
Da Qing Long Tang
Major Bluegreen Dragon Decoction
(Release Exterior: Warming)
Da Qing Long Tang
Major Bluegreen Dragon Decoction
(Release Exterior: Warming)
What formula is best for the following symptoms of exterior cold with heat from constraint in the interior, and/or overflowing thin mucus?
Pulse: Floating, tight
Tongue: Not noted in Bensky
exterior cold w/heat from constraint in the interior characterized by... Severe fever and chills without sweating Body aches Thirst Irritability -also for- Overflowing thin mucus Superficial edema, heaviness, aching in the limbs accompanied by generalized irritability and restlessness
ingredients ma huang (18g) - chief xing ren (60 pieces or 6-9g) - assistant zhi gan cao (6g) - envoy shi gao (1 piece the size of an egg or 12-30g) - deputy sheng jiang (9g) - assistant da zao (12 pieces) - assistant ***Gui Zhi and Sheng Jiang assist the diaphoretic action of Ma Huang. These 3 together, open the pores, induce sweating and scatter wind-cold. Da Zao & Gan Cao tonify the middle burner qi and provide the essence to rebuild fluids. Shi Gao works as a deputy clears internal heat without interrupting the diaphoretic action of the other herbs.
CC: This formula is strongly diaphoretic. It should be administered gradually and stopped once sweating has been induced. The formula is contraindicated in lesser yin patterns, in cases of yang deficiency, in wind-stroke patterns with deficiency of the exterior, and in all cases where sweating is associated with an increase in irritability, restlessness, and heat (i.e. cases of yin or blood deficiency). It is also inappropriate for wind-cold fettering the exterior with severe accumulation of fluids in the interior.
What formula is best for the following symptoms of exterior cold with heat from constraint in the interior, and/or overflowing thin mucus?
Da Qing Long Tang
Major Bluegreen Dragon Decoction
(Release Exterior: Warming)
What formula is best for the following symptoms of exterior cold with heat from constraint in the interior, and/or overflowing thin mucus?
Pulse: Floating, tight
Tongue: Not noted in Bensky
exterior cold w/heat from constraint in the interior characterized by... Severe fever and chills without sweating Body aches Thirst Irritability -also for- Overflowing thin mucus Superficial edema, heaviness, aching in the limbs accompanied by generalized irritability and restlessness
ingredients ma huang (18g) - chief xing ren (60 pieces or 6-9g) - assistant zhi gan cao (6g) - envoy shi gao (1 piece the size of an egg or 12-30g) - deputy sheng jiang (9g) - assistant da zao (12 pieces) - assistant ***Gui Zhi and Sheng Jiang assist the diaphoretic action of Ma Huang. These 3 together, open the pores, induce sweating and scatter wind-cold. Da Zao & Gan Cao tonify the middle burner qi and provide the essence to rebuild fluids. Shi Gao works as a deputy clears internal heat without interrupting the diaphoretic action of the other herbs.
CC: This formula is strongly diaphoretic. It should be administered gradually and stopped once sweating has been induced. The formula is contraindicated in lesser yin patterns, in cases of yang deficiency, in wind-stroke patterns with deficiency of the exterior, and in all cases where sweating is associated with an increase in irritability, restlessness, and heat (i.e. cases of yin or blood deficiency). It is also inappropriate for wind-cold fettering the exterior with severe accumulation of fluids in the interior.
Xiao Qing Long Tang
Minor Bluegreen Dragon Decoction
Xiao Qing Long Tang
Minor Bluegreen Dragon Decoction
(Release Exterior: Warming)
What formula is best for the following symptoms of chronic water metabolism problems and thin mucus associated with a disposition toward weakness of the Lung, Spleen or Kidneys, alongside externally contracted wind-cold exacerbated by closure of the interstices and pores at the surface?
Pulse: Floating and tight
Tongue: Moist coating
Fever and chills (chilld predominant) without sweating
Cough, wheezing
Sputum that is copious, white, stringy, and difficult to expectorate
Stifling sensation in the chest
Generalized sensation of heaviness and body aches
No particular thirst
Severe cases may have superficial edema or considerable difficulty in breathing when lying down.
ingredients
ma huang (9g) - chief
gui zhi (9g) - chief :: the two chiefs work together to disperse wind-cold from the exterior, promote water metabolism to remove thin mucus, disseminate LU qi and open the vessels to treat wheezing & body aches
gan jiang (9g) deputy — warms the SP, specifically
xi xin (9g) deputy — warms the interior, transforms thin mucus and both deputies help the chief herbs release the exterior
wu wei zi (9g) (sour flavor from stabilize and bind category) - assistant — prevents leakage of LU qi
bai shao (9g) assistant — nourishes blood and nutritive qi somewhat astringent so it keeps the gui zhi flowing in cu li space
zhi ban xia (9g) assistant — transforms thin mucus, dries damp (strongly drying) and harmonies the stomach – THINK PHLEGM
zhi gan cao (9g) - envoy — augments the qi and harmonies the acrid, sour herbs
CC: This formula should not be used long term, nor for conditions with heat, coughing of blood, or coughing due to yin deficiency. Use with caution in cases of hypertension - in such cases, prepared ma huang is often substituted for ma huang.
What formula is best for the following symptoms of chronic water metabolism problems and thin mucus associated with a disposition toward weakness of the Lung, Spleen or Kidneys, alongside externally contracted wind-cold exacerbated by closure of the interstices and pores at the surface?
Xiao Qing Long Tang
Minor Bluegreen Dragon Decoction
(Release Exterior: Warming)
What formula is best for the following symptoms of chronic water metabolism problems and thin mucus associated with a disposition toward weakness of the Lung, Spleen or Kidneys, alongside externally contracted wind-cold exacerbated by closure of the interstices and pores at the surface?
Pulse: Floating and tight
Tongue: Moist coating
Fever and chills (chilld predominant) without sweating
Cough, wheezing
Sputum that is copious, white, stringy, and difficult to expectorate
Stifling sensation in the chest
Generalized sensation of heaviness and body aches
No particular thirst
Severe cases may have superficial edema or considerable difficulty in breathing when lying down.
ingredients
ma huang (9g) - chief
gui zhi (9g) - chief :: the two chiefs work together to disperse wind-cold from the exterior, promote water metabolism to remove thin mucus, disseminate LU qi and open the vessels to treat wheezing & body aches
gan jiang (9g) deputy — warms the SP, specifically
xi xin (9g) deputy — warms the interior, transforms thin mucus and both deputies help the chief herbs release the exterior
wu wei zi (9g) (sour flavor from stabilize and bind category) - assistant — prevents leakage of LU qi
bai shao (9g) assistant — nourishes blood and nutritive qi somewhat astringent so it keeps the gui zhi flowing in cu li space
zhi ban xia (9g) assistant — transforms thin mucus, dries damp (strongly drying) and harmonies the stomach – THINK PHLEGM
zhi gan cao (9g) - envoy — augments the qi and harmonies the acrid, sour herbs
CC: This formula should not be used long term, nor for conditions with heat, coughing of blood, or coughing due to yin deficiency. Use with caution in cases of hypertension - in such cases, prepared ma huang is often substituted for ma huang.
Ge Gen Tang
Kudzu Decoction
(Release Exterior: Warming) - adaptation of Ma Huang Tang
Ge Gen Tang
Kudzu Decoction
(Release Exterior: Warming) - adaptation of Ma Huang Tang
What formula is best for the following symptoms of externally contracted wind-cold affecting the Taiyang warp?
Pulse: Floating, tight
Tongue: Thin, white coating
Fever and chills without sweating
Stiff and rigid neck and pain in upper back
ingredients ge gen (12g) - chief — releases the muscle layer (upper back/neck) ma huang (9g) - deputy — induces sweating and releases excess cold from the exterior gui zhi (6g) deputy — aids the chief to release the muscle layer and exterior Bai shao (6g) assistant — preserves the yin sheng jiang (9g) - assistant da zao (12 pieces) - assistant :: da zao & sheng jiang regulate the protective and nutritive qi and harmonizes the stomach zhi gan cao (6g) - envoy harmonizes the other herbs
What formula is best for the following symptoms of externally contracted wind-cold affecting the Taiyang warp?
Ge Gen Tang
Kudzu Decoction
(Release Exterior: Warming) - adaptation of Ma Huang Tang
What formula is best for the following symptoms of externally contracted wind-cold affecting the Taiyang warp?
Pulse: Floating, tight
Tongue: Thin, white coating
Fever and chills without sweating
Stiff and rigid neck and pain in upper back
ingredients ge gen (12g) - chief — releases the muscle layer (upper back/neck) ma huang (9g) - deputy — induces sweating and releases excess cold from the exterior gui zhi (6g) deputy — aids the chief to release the muscle layer and exterior Bai shao (6g) assistant — preserves the yin sheng jiang (9g) - assistant da zao (12 pieces) - assistant :: da zao & sheng jiang regulate the protective and nutritive qi and harmonizes the stomach zhi gan cao (6g) - envoy harmonizes the other herbs
Ban Xia Hou Po Tang
Pinellia and Magnolia Bark Decoction
(Release Exterior: Warming)
Ban Xia Hou Po Tang
Pinellia and Magnolia Bark Decoction
(Release Exterior: Warming)
What formula is best for the following symptoms of plum pit qi as the result of emotional upset due to circumstances that the patient figuratively cannot swallow?
Pulse: Slippery, slow or wiry
Tongue: White, moist or greasy coating
Plum pit qi - a feeling of something caught in the throat that can be neither swallowed nor expelled
A stifling sensation in the chest and hypochondria
-in severe cases-
Coughing or vomiting
ingredients
zhi ban xia (9-12g) - chief
hou po (9g) - chief :: the two chiefs transform phlegm, dissipates clumps, directs the rebellious qi downward and harmonizes the stomach - ban xia and hou po are often paired for getting rid of phlegm
fu ling (12g) deputy — leaches out dampness and assist in transforming phlegm — provides the exit strategy, downward
sheng jiang (15g) assistant — helps the chief herbs harmonize the stomach and stop vomiting
zi su ye (6g) deputy — reinforces hou po to regulate qi and break up stagnation
CC: Appropriate only in cases of constrained qi and phlegm. It is contraindicated in patients presenting with a flushed face, a bitter taste in the mouth, and a red tongue with scanty coating.
What formula is best for the following symptoms of plum pit qi as the result of emotional upset due to circumstances that the patient figuratively cannot swallow?
Ban Xia Hou Po Tang
Pinellia and Magnolia Bark Decoction
(Release Exterior: Warming)
What formula is best for the following symptoms of plum pit qi as the result of emotional upset due to circumstances that the patient figuratively cannot swallow?
Pulse: Slippery, slow or wiry
Tongue: White, moist or greasy coating
Plum pit qi - a feeling of something caught in the throat that can be neither swallowed nor expelled
A stifling sensation in the chest and hypochondria
-in severe cases-
Coughing or vomiting
ingredients
zhi ban xia (9-12g) - chief
hou po (9g) - chief :: the two chiefs transform phlegm, dissipates clumps, directs the rebellious qi downward and harmonizes the stomach - ban xia and hou po are often paired for getting rid of phlegm
fu ling (12g) deputy — leaches out dampness and assist in transforming phlegm — provides the exit strategy, downward
sheng jiang (15g) assistant — helps the chief herbs harmonize the stomach and stop vomiting
zi su ye (6g) deputy — reinforces hou po to regulate qi and break up stagnation
CC: Appropriate only in cases of constrained qi and phlegm. It is contraindicated in patients presenting with a flushed face, a bitter taste in the mouth, and a red tongue with scanty coating.
Gui Zhi Tang
Cinnamon Twig Decoction
Gui Zhi Tang
Cinnamon Twig Decoction
(Release Exterior: Warming)
What formula is best for the following symptoms of externally-contracted wind-cold or wind attack, a condition characterized by disharmony between the ying/wei or nutritive and protective qi… or loss of mutual regulation between ying/wei qi after a serious illness, childbirth, or in patients with a weak constitution?
Pulse: Floating, either lax or frail
Tongue: Thin, white, moist coating
Fever and chills unrelieved by sweating Headache Aversion to wind Stiff neck Nasal congestion Dry heaves No particular thirst
ingredients
gui zhi (9g) - chief — releases muscle layer -balances the ying and the wei
shao yao/Bai shao (9g) deputy — benefits yin and contains the weak nutritive qi.
sheng jiang (9g) - assistant — helps the chief release the exterior and treats nausea and vomiting by directing qi downward
da zao (12 pieces) - assistant — helps the sour deputy nourish and harmonize the nutritive qi and the blood
zhi gan cao (6g) envoy — harmonizes the actions of the other herbs - – VERY FLEXIBLE AS A BASE IN CREATING FORMULAS
CC: Contraindicated in most cases with exterior cold and interior heat, characterized by fever and thirst or sore throat with a rapid pulse. It should not be given to patients with internal heat, as nosebleeds may result. It is also contraindicated in patients with internal damp-heat. It should be used with caution during the summer or spells of hot weather. If incorrectly prescribed, or if the dosage is too strong, profuse sweating, high fever, severe thirst, palpitations, and irritability may result.
What formula is best for the following symptoms of externally-contracted wind-cold or wind attack, a condition characterized by disharmony between the ying/wei or nutritive and protective qi… or loss of mutual regulation between ying/wei qi after a serious illness, childbirth, or in patients with a weak constitution?
Gui Zhi Tang
Cinnamon Twig Decoction
(Release Exterior: Warming)
What formula is best for the following symptoms of externally-contracted wind-cold or wind attack, a condition characterized by disharmony between the ying/wei or nutritive and protective qi… or loss of mutual regulation between ying/wei qi after a serious illness, childbirth, or in patients with a weak constitution?
Pulse: Floating, either lax or frail
Tongue: Thin, white, moist coating
Fever and chills unrelieved by sweating Headache Aversion to wind Stiff neck Nasal congestion Dry heaves No particular thirst
ingredients
gui zhi (9g) - chief — releases muscle layer -balances the ying and the wei
shao yao/Bai shao (9g) deputy — benefits yin and contains the weak nutritive qi.
sheng jiang (9g) - assistant — helps the chief release the exterior and treats nausea and vomiting by directing qi downward
da zao (12 pieces) - assistant — helps the sour deputy nourish and harmonize the nutritive qi and the blood
zhi gan cao (6g) envoy — harmonizes the actions of the other herbs - – VERY FLEXIBLE AS A BASE IN CREATING FORMULAS
CC: Contraindicated in most cases with exterior cold and interior heat, characterized by fever and thirst or sore throat with a rapid pulse. It should not be given to patients with internal heat, as nosebleeds may result. It is also contraindicated in patients with internal damp-heat. It should be used with caution during the summer or spells of hot weather. If incorrectly prescribed, or if the dosage is too strong, profuse sweating, high fever, severe thirst, palpitations, and irritability may result.
Ma Xing Shi Gan Tang
Ephedra, Apricot Kernel, Gypsum, and Licorice Decoction
(Release Exterior: Warming)
Ma Xing Shi Gan Tang
Ephedra, Apricot Kernel, Gypsum, and Licorice Decoction
(Release Exterior: Warming)
What formula is best for the following symptoms of heat lodged in the Lungs where it obstructs the flow of qi?
Pulse: Rapid, floating or slippery
Tongue: Thin coating, can either be white or yellow
Fever with or without sweating Thirst Wheezing Coughing Labored breathing Nasal flaring and pain
ingredients
ma huang (12g) - chief — facilitates the circulation of LU qi and controls wheezing
shi gao (24) -chief — drains heat from Lungs and controls the action of ma huang
xing ren (50 pieces or 18g) deputy — assists ma huang in facilitating the flow of LU qi and direct rebellious qi down
zhi gan cao (6g) envoy — moistens the lungs, stops coughing and harmonizes the actions of the other herbs.
CC: Contraindicated for wheezing due to cold and in cases where the pathogenic influence lingers due to deficiency of the normal qi.
What formula is best for the following symptoms of heat lodged in the Lungs where it obstructs the flow of qi?
Ma Xing Shi Gan Tang
Ephedra, Apricot Kernel, Gypsum, and Licorice Decoction
(Release Exterior: Warming)
What formula is best for the following symptoms of heat lodged in the Lungs where it obstructs the flow of qi?
Pulse: Rapid, floating or slippery
Tongue: Thin coating, can either be white or yellow
Fever with or without sweating Thirst Wheezing Coughing Labored breathing Nasal flaring and pain
ingredients
ma huang (12g) - chief — facilitates the circulation of LU qi and controls wheezing
shi gao (24) -chief — drains heat from Lungs and controls the action of ma huang
xing ren (50 pieces or 18g) deputy — assists ma huang in facilitating the flow of LU qi and direct rebellious qi down
zhi gan cao (6g) envoy — moistens the lungs, stops coughing and harmonizes the actions of the other herbs.
CC: Contraindicated for wheezing due to cold and in cases where the pathogenic influence lingers due to deficiency of the normal qi.
Cang Er Zi San
Xanthium Powder
Cang Er Zi San
Xanthium Powder
(Release Exterior: Warming)
What formula is best for the following symptoms of deep-source nasal congestion/bi yuan or “seepage from the brain”?
Pulse: Not in Bensky
Tongue: Normal or thin/white or greasy/white coating
Copious, purulent, and even foul-smelling nasal discharge
Nasal obstruction
Dizziness
Frontal headache
ingredients
cang er zi 7.5g–(6-9g) - chief toxic
xin yi hua 15g–(3-6g) - chief :: the chief herbs are acrid, drying and warm and unblock nasal passages
bai zhi 30g–(6-9g) deputy — acrid & warming, releases exterior, opens up orifices, disperses wind-damp
bo he {add near end} 1.5g–(3-6g) assistant — releases wind-heat from the exterior and especially eyes and head
if not in parenthesis, this dosage should be combined, ground into a fine powder and taken in 6 g doses in tea made from green tea and cong bai – dosing in parenthesis, is to be taken as decoction.
CC: This formula is very acrid and warming. It is unsuitable for treating conditions due to internal wind.
What formula is best for the following symptoms of deep-source nasal congestion/bi yuan or “seepage from the brain”?
Cang Er Zi San
Xanthium Powder
(Release Exterior: Warming)
What formula is best for the following symptoms of deep-source nasal congestion/bi yuan or “seepage from the brain”?
Pulse: Not in Bensky
Tongue: Normal or thin/white or greasy/white coating
Copious, purulent, and even foul-smelling nasal discharge
Nasal obstruction
Dizziness
Frontal headache
ingredients
cang er zi 7.5g–(6-9g) - chief toxic
xin yi hua 15g–(3-6g) - chief :: the chief herbs are acrid, drying and warm and unblock nasal passages
bai zhi 30g–(6-9g) deputy — acrid & warming, releases exterior, opens up orifices, disperses wind-damp
bo he {add near end} 1.5g–(3-6g) assistant — releases wind-heat from the exterior and especially eyes and head
if not in parenthesis, this dosage should be combined, ground into a fine powder and taken in 6 g doses in tea made from green tea and cong bai – dosing in parenthesis, is to be taken as decoction.
CC: This formula is very acrid and warming. It is unsuitable for treating conditions due to internal wind.