Library

Zhu Ling Tang (Polyporus Decoction): Zhu Ling (Polyporus), Fu Ling (Poria), Ze Xie (Alisma Rhizome), Hua Shi (Talcum) (each 3 qian), E Jiao (Donkey-hide Gelatin) (stir-fried with clam powder, 1 qian).

In Shaoyin syndrome (disease of the Kidney and Heart channels) complicated with diarrhea, this formula is indicated to stop the diarrhea by promoting diuresis. In Taiyang syndrome (exterior syndrome) presenting with thirst for water and dysuria, this formula is indicated to guide the Yang-pathogenic heat out through urination, thereby restoring fluid metabolism and curing the thirst. It is said: Zhu Ling has a withered texture, reflecting its light and clear nature, capable of draining dampness from the Upper Jiao (Upper Burner); Fu Ling tastes sweet, reflecting the nature of the Central Palace (Spleen/Stomach), capable of draining dampness from the Middle Jiao; Ze Xie tastes salty, reflecting its descending and moistening nature, capable of draining dampness from the Lower Jiao; Hua Shi... preserves body fluids within the Du Shu (water passages).

Yin Chen Hao Tang (Artemisiae Scopariae Decoction): Yin Chen Hao (Artemisiae Scopariae Herba) (0.5 liang), Zhi Zi (Gardeniae Fructus) (4 pieces, stir-fried), Da Huang (Rhei Radix et Rhizoma) (3 qian, soaked in wine).

In Taiyang syndrome, if there is sweating only on the head, thirst for drinking liquids, and dysuria, jaundice will inevitably develop; this formula treats such cases.
"Sweating only on the head" means sweat is present only on the head and stops at the neck, with no sweat elsewhere. Internal excess heat causes thirst for drinking; failure of ascending and descending mechanisms causes dysuria; damp-heat stagnates in the Middle Jiao without being able to vent outward, causing jaundice. The Classics state: "For severe heat, use cold to treat it," hence Yin Chen is used; "Bitter enters the Heart and overcomes heat," hence Zhi Zi is used; "To eliminate pathogenic heat, one must rely on the 'General' (Da Huang)," hence Da Huang is used. It is also said: Yin Chen and Zhi Zi guide damp-heat out through urine, hence they are used.

Jie Geng Tang (Platycodon Decoction): Jie Geng (Platycodonis Radix) (1 liang), Gan Cao (Glycyrrhizae Radix et Rhizoma) (2 liang).

In Shaoyin syndrome, if sore throat occurs, this formula is indicated.
Dry mouth and tongue with thirst, and a deep pulse, indicate Shaoyin syndrome. The Shaoyin meridian runs along the throat and surrounds the root of the tongue; thus, disease in this channel causes sore throat. Gan Cao relieves pathogenic heat and has a dispersing effect; Jie Geng descends heat from the diaphragm and treats throat diseases.

Xiao Jian Zhong Tang (Minor Construct the Middle Decoction): Rou Gui (Cinnamomi Cortex) [Note: Text implies Cinnamon Twig/branch contextually but lists 'Gui', later clarifies distinction], Gan Cao (Glycyrrhizae Radix et Rhizoma), Sheng Jiang (Zingiberis Rhizoma Recens) (each 3 liang), Bai Shao (Paeoniae Radix Alba) (6 liang, stir-fried), Jiao Yi (Malt Sugar) (1 sheng), Da Zao (Jujubae Fructus) (12 pieces).

In Taiyang syndrome, if acute pain in the abdomen occurs, this formula is indicated.
Acute abdominal pain indicates disharmony of Yin and Yang in the Middle Jiao and failure of the Spleen Qi to establish itself; therefore, the Jian Zhong (Construct the Middle) formula is established. Cinnamon bark (Rou Gui) differs from Cinnamon twig (Gui Zhi); the twig has a thin flavor and is used to release the muscle layer; the bark has a rich flavor and is used to strengthen the interior. The sourness of Bai Shao collects Yin Qi and strengthens the Spleen; the pungency of Sheng Jiang disperses cold pathogens and assists healthy Qi. The Classics state: "The Spleen desires relaxation; urgently eat sweet substances to relax it," hence Gan Cao, Da Zao, and Jiao Yi are used to relieve acute pain. It is also said: Patients who vomit should not use Jian Zhong Tang because of its sweetness. Therefore, patients with abdominal pain accompanied by vomiting are not suitable for Jian Zhong Tang.