Library

It primarily treats stagnation and accumulation in the chest and diaphragm, as well as phlegm-fluid retention (Tan Yin).

Textual Research
The syndrome of Jiegeng Bai San (Platycodon White Powder) is characterized by: frequent expectoration of turbid saliva with a foul odor, and eventually expectoration of pus after a long period.
In the above-mentioned formula, the dosage of Beimu (Fritillaria Bulb) is 3 fen.
Zhang Zhongjing used Beimu only in this single formula. Consulting herbal classics, ancient people used Beimu primarily to treat stagnation and phlegm-fluid retention, and secondarily for cough and insufficient lactation. This aligns with Zhang Zhongjing’s treatment of turbid, foul-smelling saliva. Their efficacy is largely similar to that of Jiegeng (Platycodon Root), with minor differences.

Product Examination
Beimu (Fritillaria Bulb): Sourced from Han territory (China), it is used after being chopped. It is also produced in our country (Japan), and is no different from the Chinese variety.

It treats retained fluid and stagnant water. Therefore, it is used to treat conditions where water qi (pathogenic water) stays under the heart (epigastrium), causing cough and fullness, or upward reversal, or hypochondriac pain.

Textual Research
The syndrome of Xiao Qing Tang (Minor Blue Dragon Decoction, i.e., Xiao Qing Long Tang) is characterized by: water qi under the heart, dry retching, fever accompanied by cough.
The syndrome of Ling Gan Wu Wei Jiang Xin Tang (Poria, Licorice, Schisandra, Ginger, and Asarum Decoction) is characterized by: cough and chest fullness.
In the above two formulas, Xixin (Asarum Root) is used in a dosage of 3 liang.
Mahuang Fuzi Xixin Tang (Ephedra, Aconite, and Asarum Decoction): The complete syndrome description is not provided. (See Mutual Examination).
Dahuang Fuzi Tang (Rhubarb and Aconite Decoction) is characterized by: pain on one side of the hypochondrium.
Guizhi Qushaoyao Jiama Huang Xixin Fuzi Tang (Cinnamon Twig Decoction minus Peony plus Ephedra, Asarum, and Aconite, referred to in text as Gui Jiang Cao Zao Huang Xin Fu Tang) is characterized by: hardness and distension in the epigastrium as large as a plate, with edges like an inverted cup.
In the above three formulas, Xixin (Asarum Root) is used in a dosage of 2 liang.
Observing these various formulas comprehensively, the symptoms of cough, upward reversal, chest fullness, hypochondriac pain, and hardness/distension in the epigastrium are all caused by retained fluid and stagnant water in the chest, hypochondrium, and epigastrium. Using Xixin (Asarum Root) eliminates the fluid retention, and the symptoms resolve. Thus, its primary indications can be seen.

Mutual Examination
Regarding the clause on Mahuang Fuzi Xixin Tang, it specifically mentions Shaoyin disease with contrary fever, but does not list other symptoms. In analysis: The Six Channels (Liu Jing) system was inserted by later generations and is not the ancient method of Zhang Zhongjing. What is called Shaoyin disease is characterized by curling up while lying down and clear, profuse urination. Curling up indicates severe aversion to cold. Aversion to cold is a sign of water disease; Zhang Zhongjing mostly uses Fuzi (Aconite Root) to treat aversion to cold. He also stated: "Baizhu (Atractylodes Macrocephala Rhizome) and Fuzi act together in the skin to drive out water qi." From this, it is clear that aversion to cold is due to water qi. For panting accompanied by aversion to cold, resulting from phlegm-fluid transformation, this formula is indicated. The syndrome of Guizhi Qushaoyao Jiama Huang Xixin Fuzi Tang is not fully described. See the entry for Baizhu for details, so no further repetition here.

Correction of Errors
Modern physicians, when using medicine, become fearful and trembling upon observing Mingxuan reactions (severe physiological responses indicating impending cure), and hastily change their prescriptions. How lacking in steadfast conviction they are! The Book of Documents states: "If the medicine does not induce a Mingxuan reaction, the serious illness will not be cured." Whenever I read this, I cannot help but put down my book and clap my hands in joy. The words of the sages are indeed credible and evidenced. Zhang Zhongjing’s formulation of prescriptions was also based on evidence! Let me cite one or two examples. The clause on Ling Gan Wu Wei Jiang Xin Xia Tang (Poria, Licorice, Schisandra, Ginger, and Pinellia Decoction) states: "When cough and fullness stop, but thirst recurs and the rebellious qi flares up again, it is because Xixin and Ganjiang (Dried Ginger) were used." Yet, he continues to use Xixin and Ganjiang. Who else but someone who thoroughly understands this 'toxicity' (potency) and treats this disease accordingly could do this? Alas, Zhang Zhongjing! The clause on Shu Fu Tang (Atractylodes and Aconite Decoction) states: "The patient feels as if dizzy or obscured, do not be surprised. This is because Baizhu and Fuzi are moving through the skin to expel water qi, which has not yet been completely removed." This is also what is meant by Mingxuan. Those who wish to emulate Zhang Zhongjing must grasp the concept of medicinal Mingxuan reactions for the disease to be cured. Then, they should study the methods and carefully examine the drug's efficacy. Engaging in this field, one must carefully test various herbs. Herbs classified in Bencao as highly toxic, if they do not cause a thorough Mingxuan reaction, will not eradicate the disease. Herbs classified as non-toxic, if they hit the mark, will inevitably cause a Mingxuan reaction. When Mingxuan occurs, the disease is cured; I have never seen a case where a disease was cured without a Mingxuan reaction. Alas, the words of the sages are indeed credible and evidenced! Students should ponder this.

Product Examination
Xixin (Asarum Root): Our country calls it: True Xixin is this species. It is washed to remove dust and chopped before use. Some pharmacies substitute it with Hengdu (Duheng, Dysosma versipellis). One must not fail to distinguish them.