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Cinnamon Twig (Guizhi), White Peony Root (Shaoyao), and Fresh Ginger (Shengjiang) each 3 liang; Licorice Root (Gancao) 2 liang; Jujube (Dazao) 12 pieces; Dragon Bone (Longgu) and Oyster Shell (Muli) each 3 liang.
The above seven herbs are decocted in 7 sheng of water, reduced to 3 sheng, and taken warm in three divided doses.

In cases of Xu Lao (Chronic Deficiency Syndrome) presenting with abdominal tension and pain, palpitations, epistaxis, abdominal pain, nocturnal emission during dreams, soreness and pain in the four limbs, heat sensation in the hands and feet, dry throat, and dry mouth, Xiao Jian Zhong Tang (Minor Construct the Middle Decoction) is the primary treatment.
[Annotation]
The phrase "Xu Lao..." generally refers to the syndromes of Xu Lao, not implying that these are the only symptoms of Xu Lao; hence the subsequent mention of "various deficiencies." The use of Xiao Jian Zhong Tang aims to slightly restore the deficiency of the Middle Jiao. The following six sections all discuss Xu Lao, each with its specific formula.

Cinnamon Twig (Guizhi) 3 liang; Licorice Root (Gancao), roasted 3 liang; Jujube (Dazao) 12 pieces; White Peony Root (Shaoyao) 6 liang; Fresh Ginger (Shengjiang) 2 liang; Maltose (Jiaoyi) 1 sheng.
The above six herbs are decocted in 7 sheng of water, reduced to 3 sheng. The dregs are removed, Maltose (Jiaoyi) is added, and it is gently heated over a low fire until dissolved. Take 1 sheng warm, three times daily.
Patients prone to vomiting should not use Jian Zhong Tang because sweetness can aggravate vomiting.

In cases of Xu Lao presenting with abdominal tension and various systemic deficiencies, Huang Qi Jian Zhong Tang (Astragalus Minor Construct the Middle Decoction) is the primary treatment.
[Annotation]
The term "Xu Lao with abdominal tension and various deficiencies" also refers to the various deficiency syndromes mentioned in the previous paragraph. Huang Qi Jian Zhong Tang addresses the dual deficiency of the interior and exterior, not merely treating abdominal tension. Gui Zhi Jia Long Gu Mu Li Tang (Cinnamon Twig Decoction plus Dragon Bone and Oyster Shell) is Gui Zhi Tang plus Longgu and Muli. Xiao Jian Zhong Tang is Gui Zhi Tang plus Jiaoyi. Huang Qi Jian Zhong Tang is Gui Zhi Tang plus Jiaoyi and Astragali Radix (Huangqi). Thus, I often reflect on how Zhang Zhongjing utilized Gui Zhi Tang with modifications so effectively. Why do later generations view Cinnamon Twig solely as a diaphoretic for Shang Han (Cold Damage)? This indicates they only know Zhang Zhongjing used Gui Zhi Tang for Shang Han but did not know he also used it for Xu Lao. Understanding the principle of Gui Zhi Tang treating Xu Lao allows one to grasp Zhang Zhongjing's core methodology. Gui Zhi Tang consists of acrid, sweet, and warm substances. If consumed with hot porridge and covered to induce sweating, it disperses Ying and Wei to expel external pathogens, as stated in the Classics: "Acrid and sweet disperse and belong to Yang," emphasizing the acrid nature. However, when combined with Longgu, Muli, Jiaoyi, and Huangqi, it tonifies and consolidates the interior and exterior to treat Xu Lao, as stated in the Classics: "For exhaustion, use warmth; regulate with sweet medicines," emphasizing warmth and sweetness. From this, one can deduce that the modifications of herb properties and functions are infinitely profound.
[Collected Annotations]
Wei Litong stated: For severe Qi deficiency, add Astragali Radix (Huangqi); for severe fluid depletion, add Ginseng Radix et Rhizoma (Renshen) to treat abdominal tension in Xu Lao. Here, "abdominal tension" does not refer solely to tension but encompasses abdominal pain due to various deficiencies in Xu Lao. Hence the name "Jian Zhong" (Construct the Middle), aiming to support Middle Qi, allowing Yin and Yang to gradually generate, reach Ying and Wei, and distribute throughout the limbs.
You Yi stated: Interior deficiency leads to tense pulses and pulling pain in the abdomen. "Various deficiencies" means all Yin and Yang pulses are deficient, leading to symptoms such as vertigo, palpitations, asthma, seminal emission, and blood loss occurring sequentially. Tense conditions must be relieved with sweetness; deficiencies must be supplemented with warmth. To fill voids, Astragali Radix (Huangqi) has particular expertise.