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Deficiency syndromes often arise from the consecutive use of sweating, vomiting, and purging treatments, resulting in recurrent restlessness, insomnia, and severe mental agitation with a sense of oppression. In such cases, the excellent prescription of Gardenia (Zhizi) and Fermented Soybean (Xiangchi) is transmitted.

Zhizi Gancao Chitang (Gardenia, Licorice, and Fermented Soybean Decoction)
Zhizi Shengjiang Chitang (Gardenia, Ginger, and Fermented Soybean Decoction)

The efficacy of Gardenia (Zhizi) and Fermented Soybean (Xiangchi) is highly praised. If the patient suffers from shortness of breath (Shaoyi), Licorice (Gancao) should be added; if used to treat vomiting, only Ginger (Shengjiang) is employed. These two formulas are both excellent for tonifying deficiency and eliminating excess, respectively.
[Pathways Entering the Shaoyin Meridian]

(Exterior deficiency leading to spontaneous sweating) Yang collapse manifests as continuous sweating accompanied by aversion to cold and wind. This represents a constant unease due to exterior Qi deficiency. Difficulty in urination indicates a scarcity of body fluids, while slight stiffness of the four limbs makes flexion and extension difficult.

Guizhi Jia Fuzi Tang (Cinnamon Twig Decoction with Added Aconite)

To unblock the meridians, Cinnamon Twig (Guizhi) and Ginger (Jiang) are required; Peony (Shaoyao) specializes in assisting Ying (Nutritive) Qi. Jujube (Dazao) and Licorice (Gancao) harmonize the Stomach, and adding Aconite (Fuzi) serves to secure the exterior by warming Kidney Yang.

Shaoyao Gancao Fuzi Tang (Peony, Licorice, and Aconite Decoction)

(Case Note: Aversion to cold due to interior deficiency) Aversion to cold after sweating marks the formation of a deficiency syndrome. Between warming and clearing methods, tonification is more precise. Licorice (Gancao) for the Middle Jiao should ultimately be used; Aconite (Fuzi) supports Yang, while Peony (Shaoyao) assists Ying (Nutritive) Qi.

(Interior cold with dampness) Repeated vomiting and purging lead to rebellious Qi and fullness. Qi rushing to the chest is hard to dissipate. Dizziness upon rising and a deep, tight pulse indicate that sweating disturbs the meridians, causing tremors and shaking of the body.

Fuling Guizhi Baizhu Gancao Tang (Poria, Cinnamon Twig, Atractylodes Macrocephala, and Licorice Decoction)

Licorice (Gancao) is most suitable for tonifying the Middle Jiao. Cinnamon Twig (Guizhi) is used to raise Yang and resolve stagnation. Atractylodes Macrocephala (Baizhu) dries dampness and strengthens the Spleen, while Poria (Fuling) drains water. Internal movement of damp pathogens can always be treated.

(Interior cold with fluid retention) When sweating fails to resolve the cold, the person may have fever but lacks strength. Dizziness, body movements, palpitations, and a desire to beat the ground due to tremors are indicated.

Zhenwu Tang (True Warrior Decoction)

Ginger (Shengjiang) and Aconite (Fuzi) warm the interior and have great merit in anchoring fluids and supporting Yang. Atractylodes Macrocephala (Baizhu) and Poria (Fuling) specialize in removing dampness, while Peony (Shaoyao) is good at calming internal wind.

Guizhi Gancao Tang (Cinnamon Twig and Licorice Decoction)

(Case Note: Interior deficiency leading to Yang collapse) Excessive sweating causes the hands to cross over the heart region, with uncontrollable palpitations. Cinnamon Twig (Guizhi) regulates Wood Qi and supports Yang, while Licorice (Gancao) harmonizes the Middle Jiao and benefits Yin.

Fuling Guizhi Gancao Dazao Tang (Poria, Cinnamon Twig, Licorice, and Jujube Decoction)

(Case Note: Interior deficiency leading to impending Ben Tun [Rushing Pig]) Palpitations arising below the navel after sweating indicate that Ben Tun disease is about to occur, making the condition critical. Cinnamon Twig (Guizhi) and Poria (Fuling) benefit Fire and drain dampness, while Licorice (Gancao) and Jujube (Dazao) harmonize the Middle Jiao and tonify the Spleen.