Tradition:

TCM

Source / Author:

Formulas of Famous Physicians Formulas Past and Present, 1675

Preparation:

Decoction; often used in pill or powder form
If used in Decoction, Ginseng powder (1 gram) can be taken along with the decoction, or Codonopsis Dang Shen can substitute.

Function:

Strengthens Spleen, increases Qi, clears Phlegm and Damp, moves the Qi

Use:

Fatigue, poor appetite, loose stool, fullness after eating, belching, abdominal distention, pale tongue with a greasy coating, weak, slippery and slow pulse
1. Acute or chronic gastritis
2. chronic diarrhea
3. Gastro-duodenal Ulcers
4. Irritable Bowel Syndrome
5. Celiac disease
6. Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
7. Childhood Nutritional Impairment
8. To strengthen following abdominal surgery

Dose:

The above is taken over the course of the day; often used as powder or pills in doses of 6–9 grams, 2–3 times daily.

Comment:

This is based on Si Jun Zi Tang (Four Gentlemen Decoction). When Pinellia Ban Xia and Citrus Chen Pi are added it forms Liu Jun Zi Tang (Six Gentlemen Decoction). Here, Costus and Amomum are added. Four Gentlemen Decoction is used for Spleen Deficiency; Six Gentleman is used for Spleen deficiency with Phlegm; when Costus and Amomum are added, it is for Spleen deficiency with Phlegm, Damp and Qi stagnation. Because Spleen deficiency invariably has some Damp with the modern Western diet and lifestyle, the last formula is most applicable in modern western practice in which case it is best used in Powders or Pills.

Cautions:

Very drying, so only used in cases with Damp. Not suitable in Yin deficiency.

Modifications:

1. Codonopsis Dang Shen can substitute Ginseng.

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