Library

Si Wu Tang (a foundational blood-nourishing decoction composed of Dang Gui, Chuan Xiong, Bai Shao, and Shu Di Huang) added with Qiang Huo, Fang Feng, Bai Zhi, and Jing Jie Sui.

When blood is overcome by pathogenic factors, causing severe pain in the eyeball (Jing Zhu), or when excessive vomiting or blood loss has occurred, this formula is indicated.

Blood is what nourishes the eyes. Now, due to overexertion or irregular eating habits, the Spleen and Stomach are severely damaged, leading to sluggish blood circulation that cannot be disseminated properly. Malicious Qi takes advantage of this weakness, which is referred to as "pathogen excess." Furthermore, excessive vomiting or blood loss leads to deficiency generating internal Wind; Wind generates Fire, making eye pain unbearable. By using Chuan Xiong, Dang Gui, Bai Shao, and Di Huang to tonify and promote blood flow, and Jing Jie, Bai Zhi, Qiang Huo, and Fang Feng to ascend and disperse pathogens, the Wind is naturally dispersed and the Ying (Nutritive) Blood is naturally nourished. Hence it is named this Decoction. After taking it, if the pain stops but the eyelids become weak and constantly desire to droop and close, the disease has been treated. However, if the eye pain is caused by excessive vomiting and blood loss, Ai Ren Li Xue Tang should be used instead; this formula is likely unsuitable.

The poem states: Shu Feng Yang Rong Tang, containing Jing Jie, Fang Feng, Qiang Huo, and Bai Zhi, combined with Si Wu Tang decoction, ensures that blood-pathogens do not recur.

Dang Gui, Di Huang, Xue Jie (each 1 liang), Ci Shi (2 liang), Zhu Sha, Chuan Xiong, Mo Yao, Ru Xiang, Dan Shen (each 5 qian), Mu Xiang, Du Huo, Fang Feng (each 3 qian).

For injuries to the head or eyes caused by blunt force trauma, this formula is indicated.

The orbital socket is firm and solid, preventing the Eight Winds (pathogenic winds from eight directions) from penetrating its gaps. The ocular organ is stored and dense, protecting it carefully even at the risk of disturbing nearby objects (metaphor for careful protection of the precious eyes). A person should cultivate humility and maintain dignity, so that violent and unruly individuals dare not offend with improper behavior. Thus, the true eye (healthy eyeball) remains undamaged. Unfortunately, if one accidentally touches an object, the injury is comparable to being struck by fists or clubs. Therefore, medicines used for treating blunt force trauma are adapted to create this prescription. When asked about its rationale, it was explained: Dang Gui and Di Huang nourish Yin and protect the Qing Jing (cornea/anterior segment); Ci Shi and Zhu Sha calm Fire and clear the Shen Shui (aqueous humor/tears). Moreover, trauma causes blood stasis or erratic bleeding, requiring the bitter and acrid properties of Chuan Xiong, Xue Jie, Mo Yao, and Dan Shen to harmonize and promote circulation. Since blood disorders affect Qi, potentially generating Wind again, the warm and cool properties of Ru Xiang, Qing Mu Xiang, Du Huo, and Fang Feng are needed to pacify and disperse. If the condition does not improve with this, or if other symptoms arise, treatment should be discussed based on specific signs; do not remain rigid or blocked.

The poem states: Head and eyes suffer from blows and falls; although promoting blood circulation is necessary, guard against blood depletion. Fresh and plump Dan Shen should be selected, and bright, transparent Zhu Sha should be chosen. Combine Chuan Xiong, Dang Gui, and Di Huang; pound them into fine powder resembling wood shavings. Mix Ru Xiang and Mo Yao with wine for administration, relieving vexation and pain as if lifting a heavy cover.