辅行诀脏腑用药法要
梁·华阳隐居 陶弘景撰
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隐居曰：凡学道辈，欲求永年，先须祛疾。或有夙痼，或患时恙，一依五脏补泻法例，服药数剂，必使脏气平和，乃可进修内视之道。不尔，五精不续，真一难守，不入真景也。服药祛疾，虽系微事，亦初学之要领也。诸凡杂病，服药汗吐后，邪气虽[难]平，精气被夺，致令五脏虚疲，当即据证服补汤数剂以补之。不然，时日久旷，或变为损证，则生死转侧耳。谨钭五脏虚实证候悉列于左，庶几识别无误焉。
辨肝脏病证文并方
肝虚则恐，实则怒。
肝病者，必两胁下痛，痛引少腹。虚则目无所见，耳有所闻，心澹澹如人将捕之。气逆则耳聋，颊肿，治之取厥阴、少阳血者。
邪在肝，则两胁中痛。中寒恶血在内，则善瘛，节时肿。取之行间以引胁下，补三里以温[胃]中，取耳间青脉，以去其瘛。
陶云：肝德在散。故经云：以辛补之，以酸泻之。肝苦急，急食甘以缓之，适其性而衰也。
小泻肝汤
治肝实两胁下痛，痛引少腹迫急[当有干呕]者方：
枳实（熬）芍药生姜各三两
上三味以清浆三升，煮，取一升，顿服之。不瘥，即重作服之。
大泻肝汤
治头痛目赤，多恚怒，胁下支满而痛，痛连少腹迫急无奈方：
枳实（熬）芍药甘草（炙）黄芩大黄生姜（切）各一两
上六味，以水五升，煮取二升，温分再服。
小补肝汤
治[心中]恐疑，时多恶梦，气上冲心，越汗出，头目眩运者方：
桂枝干姜五味子（各三两）枣（十二枚，去核，一方作薯蓣，当从）
上四味，以水八升，煮取三升，温服一升，日三服。心中悸者，[加]桂枝一两半；中满者，去枣；心中如饥者，还用枣；咳逆头苦痛者，加细辛一两半；四肢冷，小便难者，加附子一枚，炮。
大补肝汤
治肝气虚，其人恐惧不安，气自少腹上冲咽，呃声不止，头目苦眩，不能坐起，汗出，心悸，干呕不能食，脉弱而结者方：
桂枝干姜五味子（各三两）旋覆花代赭石（烧，一方作牡丹皮，当从）竹叶（各一两）大枣（十二个，去核，一方作薯蓣，；当从）
上七味，以水一斗，温服一升，日三夜一服[升]
辨心脏病证文并方
心虚则悲不已，心实则笑不休。
心病者，心胸内痛，胁下支满，膺背肩胛间痛，两臂内痛。虚则胸腹胁下与腰相引而痛。取其经手少阴、太阳，及舌下血者。其变，刺郄中血者。
邪在心，则病心中前，善悲，是眩仆，视有余不足崦调之。经云：“诸邪在心者，皆心胞代受，故证如是。”
陶云：心德在耎①。故经云：“以咸补之，苦泻之。心苦缓，急食酸以收之。”
小泻心汤
治心中卒急痛，胁下支满，气逆攻膺背肩胛间，不可饮食食之反笃者方：
龙胆草栀子（打，各三两）戎盐（如杏子大三枚，烧赤）
上三味，以酢三升，煮取一升，顿服。少顷，得吐瘥。
大泻心汤
治暴得心腹痛，痛如刀刺，欲吐不吐，欲下不下，心中懊憹，胁背胸支满迫急，无可奈者方：
龙胆草栀子（捣，各三两）苦参升麻（各二两）豉（半升）戎盐（如杏子大三枚）
上六味，服一升，当大吐，吐已必自泻下，即瘥（一方无苦参，有通草二两，当从）
小补心汤
治胸痹，心中痞满，气结在胸，时从胁下逆抢心，心痛无奈方：
栝蒌（一枚，捣）薤白（八两）半夏（半升，洗去滑）厚朴（炙，二两）桂枝（一两）
上六味，以白浆一斗煮取四或，每服二或，日再。（一方有杏仁半升，无半夏，当从）
心胞气实者，受外邪之动也，则胸胁支满，眩中澹澹大动，面赤，目黄，善笑不休；虚则血气少，善悲，久不已，发癫仆。
小泻心汤
治胸腹支满，心中跳动不安者方：
黄连黄芩大黄（各三两）
上三味，以麻沸汤三升，渍一食顷，绞去滓，顿。
大泻心汤
治心中怔忡不安，胸膺痞懑，口中苦，舌上生疮，面赤如新妆，或吐血，衄血，下血者方：
黄连黄芩芍药（各三两）干姜（炮）甘草（炙）大黄（各一两）
上六味，以水五升，煮取二升，温分再服，日二。
小补心汤
治血气虚少，心中动悸，时悲泣，烦中，汗出，气噫，脉结者方：
代赭石（烧赤，入酢浆中淬三次，打。一方作牡丹皮，当从）旋覆花竹叶（各二两）豉（一两，一方作山萸肉，当从）
上方四味，以不八升，煮取三升，温服一升，日三服，怔惊不发者，加代赭石，为四两半；烦热汗出者，去豉，加竹叶至四两半，身热还用豉；心中窒痛[心下痞满]者，加豉至四两半；气苦少者，加甘草三两；心下痞满者，去豉，加人参一两半；胸中冷而多唾者，加干姜一两半；咽中介介塞者，加旋覆花至四两半。
大补心汤
治心中虚烦，懊憹不发，怔忡如车马惊，饮食无味，干呕，气噫，时或多唾，其人脉结而微者方：
代赭石（烧赤，入酢头中淬三次，打。一方作牡丹皮，当从）旋覆花
竹叶（各三两）豉（一方作山萸肉，当从）人参甘草（炙）干姜（各一两）
上方七味，以水一斗，煮取四升，温服一升，日三夜一服。
辨脾脏病证文并方
脾实则腹满，殓泄；虚则四肢不用，五脏不安。
脾病者，必腹满肠鸣，溏泻，食不化；虚则身重，若饥，肉痛，足痿不收，行善瘛，脚下痛。
邪在脾，则肌肉痛，阳气不足，则寒中，肠鸣，腹痛；阴气不足，则善饥，绵调其三里。
陶云：脾德在缓。故经云：以甘补之，辛泻之；脾苦湿，急食苦以燥之。
小泻脾汤
治脾气实，下利清谷，里寒外热，腹冷，脉微者方：
附子（[一]枚，炮]干姜甘草（炙，各三两）
上三味，以水三升，煮取一升，顿服。
大泻脾汤
治腹中胀满，干呕不能食，欲利不理，或下利不止者方：
附子（一枚，炮）干姜（三两）黄芩大黄芍药[枳实]甘草（炙，各一两）
上方六味，以水五升，煮取二勤务员，温升再服，日二。
小补脾汤
治饮食不化，时自吐利，吐利已，心中苦饥；或心下痞满，脉微，无力，身重，足痿，善转筋者方：
人参甘草（炙）干姜（各三两）白术（一两）
上四味，以水八升，煮取三升，分三服，日三。苦脐上筑动者，去术，加桂四两；吐多者，去术，加生姜三两；下多者，仍用术；心中悸者加茯苓一分[两]；渴欲饮者，加术至四两半；腹中满者，去术，加附子，一枚，炮；腹中痛者，加人参一分[两]；寒者，加干姜一分[两]。
大补脾汤
治脾气大疲，饮食不化，呕吐下利，其人枯瘦如柴，立不可动转，口中苦干渴，汗出，气急，脉微而时微者方：
人参甘草（炙，各三两）干姜（三两）术麦门冬五味子旋覆花（一方作牡丹皮，当从，各一两）
上七味，以水一斗煮取四升，温分四服，日三夜一服。
辨肺脏病证候文并方
肺虚则鼻息不利；实则喘咳，凭胸仰息。
肺病者，必咳喘逆气，肩息，背痛，汗出憎风；虚则胸中痛，少气，不能报息，耳聋，咽干。
邪在肺，则皮肤痛，发寒热，上气喘，汗出，咳动肩背，取之膺中外腧，背第三椎旁，以手按之快然，乃刺之，取缺盆以越之。
陶云：肺德在收。故经云：“以酸补之，咸泻之；肺苦气上逆，食辛以散之，开腠理以通气也。”
小泻肺汤
治咳喘上气，胸中迫满，不可卧者方：
葶苈子（熬黑，捣如泥）大黄芍药（各三两）
上三味，以水三升，煮取二升，温分再服，喘定止后服。
大泻肺汤
治胸中有痰[疾？]涎，喘不得卧，大小便闷，身面肿迫潢，欲得气利者方：
葶苈子（熬）大黄芍药（各二两）甘草（炙）黄芩干姜（各一两）
上六味，以水五升，煮取二升，温分再服，日二服。
小补肺汤
治汗出口渴，少气不足息，胸中痛，脉虚者方：
麦门冬五味子旋覆花（各三两，一方作牡丹皮，可从）细辛（一两）
上四味，以水八升，煮取三升，每服一升，日三服。若胸中烦热者，去细辛，加海蛤一分[两]；若闷痛者，加细辛一分[两]；咳疾不出，脉结者，倍旋覆花为二[六]两；若眩冒者，去细辛，加泽泻一分[两]；咳而吐血者，倍麦门冬二[六]两；若烦渴者，去细辛，加粳米半升；涎多者，仍用细辛，加半夏半升，洗。
大补肺汤
治烦热汗邮，少气不足息，口干，耳聋，脉虚而快者方：
麦门冬五味子旋覆花（各三两，一方作牡丹皮，当从）细辛（一两）地黄竹叶甘（各一两）
上七味，以水一斗，煮取四升，温分四服，日三夜一服。
辨肾脏病证文并方
肾气虚则厥逆，实则腹满，面色正黑，泾溲不利。
肾病者，必腹大胫肿，身重，嗜寝[寐]；虚则腰中痛，大腹小腹痛，尻阴股、膝挛，足皆痛。
邪在肾，是骨痛，阴痹，阴痹者，按之不得，腹胀，腰痛，大便难，肩背项强痛，时眩仆，取之勇泉，昆仑，视有余者尽取之。
陶云：肾德在坚。故经云：“以苦补之，甘泻之；肾甘燥，急食咸以润之，至津液生也。”
小泻肾汤
治小便赤少，少腹满，[时足胫有者方]：
茯苓甘草黄芩（各三两）
上三味，以水三升，煮取一升，顿服。
大泻肾汤
治小便赤少，是溺血，少腹迫满而痛，腰如折，耳鸣者方：
茯苓甘草大黄黄芩（各三两）芍药干姜（各一两）
上方六味，以水五升，煮取二升，日二温服。
小补肾汤
治虚劳失精，腰痛，骨蒸羸瘦，脉快者方：
地黄竹叶甘草（各三两）泽泻（一两）
上四味，以水八升，煮取三升，日三服。若小便血者，去泽泻，加地榆一两[分]；若大便见血者，去泽泻，加伏龙肝如鸡子在；若苦遗精者，易生地黄为熟地黄；若小便冷，茎中痛，倍泽泻为二两；少腹苦迫急者，去泽泻，加牡丹皮一两[分]；小便不利者，仍用泽泻；心烦者，加竹叶；腹中热者，加栀子十四枚，打。
大补肾汤
治精气虚少，腰痛，肾痿，不可行走，虚热冲逆，头目眩，小便不利，脉软而快者方：
地黄竹叶甘草（各三两）泽泻桂枝干姜五味子（各一两）
上七味，以长流水一斗，煮取四升，渐分四服，日三服夜一服。
陶曰：又有泻方五首，以救诸病误治，致生变乱者也
泻肝汤
救误用吐法，其人神气素虚，有疾[痰]澼发动呕吐不止，惊烦不宁方：
枳实（熬）芍药代赭石（一方作牡丹皮，当从）旋覆花竹叶（各三两，一方有生姜，当从）
上方五味，以水七升，煮取三升，温分再服。
泻心汤
救误用清下，其人阳气素实，外邪乘虚陷入，致心下痞满，食不下，利反不止，雷鸣腹痛方：
黄连黄芩人参甘草（炙）干姜（各三两，一方有大枣）
上方五味，以水七升，煮取三升，温分再服
泻脾汤
救误用冷寒，其人阴气素实，卫气不通，致腹中滞胀，反寒不已方：
附子（炮）干姜麦冬五味子旋覆花（各三两，一方有细辛三两）
上方五味，以水七升，煮取三升，温分再服。
泻肺汤
救误用火法，其人血素躁，致令神识迷妄如痴，吐血、衄血、胸中烦满，气结
葶苈子（熬黑，捣如泥）大黄生地黄竹叶甘草（各三两）
上方五味，以水七升，煮取三升，温分再服。
泻肾汤
救误用汗法，其人阳气素虚，致令阴气逆升，心中悸动不安，冒，汗出不止
茯苓甘草桂枝生姜五味子（各三两）
止方五味，以水七升，煮取三或，温分再服。
陶云：经方有救诸劳损病方，亦有五首，然综观共要义，盖不外虚候方加减而已，录出以备修真之辅，拯人之危也。然其方意深妙，非俗浅所识，缘诸损候，藏气互乘，虚实杂错，药味寒热并行，补泻相参，先圣遗奥，出人意表，汉晋以还，诸名医辈，张机、卫汜 [汛]、华元化、吴普、皇甫玄晏、支法师、葛稚川、范将军等，皆当代名贤，咸师式此，《汤液经法》愍救疾苦，造福含灵，其间增减，虽各擅其异，或致新效，似乱旧经，而其旨趣，仍方圆之于规矩也。
辅行诀脏腑用药法要（下）
梁华阳隐居陶弘景撰
养生补肝汤
治肝虚，筋极，腹中坚澼，大便閟塞方：
蜀椒（汗，一升）桂心（三两）韭叶（切，一把）芍药（三两）芒硝（半斤）胡麻油（一升）
上六味，以水五升，称煮椒、椒、韭叶、区药，取得三升，去滓，纳芒硝于内，待消已，即停火，将麻油倾入，乘热，急以桑枝三枚，各长尺许，不住手搅，令与芍药和合为度，共得三升，温分三他，一日尽之。
调中补心汤
治心劳脉极，心中烦悸神识慌惚方：
旋覆花（一升，一方作牡丹皮四两，当从）栗子（打去壳，十二枚）葱叶（十四茎）豉（半斤，一方作山萸肉，当从）栀子（十四枚，打）人参（三两，切）
上方六味，以清酒四升，水六升，煮取三升，渐分三他，日三。
建中补脾汤
治脾虚肉极，羸唐如柴，腹中拘急，四肢无力方：
甘草（炙，二两）大枣（十二枚，去核）生姜（三两，切）黄饴（一升）桂枝（二两）芍药（六两）
上六味，以水七升，煮取三升，去滓，纳饴，更上火，令消已，温服一升，日尽之。
Fuxing Jue Zangfu Yongyao Fayao (Essentials of Organ Treatment in the Fuxing Jue)
Written by Tao Hongjing, the Recluse of Huayang, during the Liang Dynasty.
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The Recluse said: For those who practice the Dao and seek longevity, one must first eliminate diseases. Whether suffering from chronic ailments or seasonal illnesses, one should strictly follow the principles of tonifying and purging the five zang organs. After taking several doses of medicine, it is essential to restore the balance of the zang qi before proceeding with internal visualization practices. Otherwise, the essence of the five zang cannot be sustained, the True One (the primordial spirit or life source) will be difficult to preserve, and one cannot enter the realm of true visions. Although medication for disease removal seems trivial, it is a fundamental requirement for beginners. For all miscellaneous diseases, after administering sweating or emetic therapies, even if the pathogenic factors are [difficult] to subdue, the vital essence has been depleted, leading to weakness and fatigue of the five zang organs. In such cases, one should immediately administer tonic decoctions based on the syndrome to tonify the deficiency. If neglected over time, it may transform into a consumptive disorder, resulting in sudden death or survival. Herein, the syndromes of deficiency and excess of the five zang organs are listed below to ensure accurate identification.
Text and Formulas for Identifying Liver Diseases
Liver deficiency manifests as fear; liver excess manifests as anger.
In liver diseases, there is invariably pain under both hypochondria, radiating to the lower abdomen. In deficiency, vision is impaired, auditory hallucinations occur, and the heart palpitates anxiously as if someone were about to capture one. Qi rebellion causes deafness and cheek swelling; treatment involves bleeding the Jueyin and Shaoyang meridians.
When pathogenic factors reside in the liver, pain occurs in the center of both hypochondria. If cold invades and evil blood accumulates internally, spasms and intermittent joint swelling occur. Treat by stimulating Xingjian (LR2) to guide qi from the hypochondrium, tonify Zusanli (ST36) to warm the stomach, and bleed the blue vessels behind the ear to relieve spasms.
Tao Hongjing stated: The virtue of the liver lies in dispersion. Thus, the classics say: Tonify with pungent flavors, purge with sour flavors. When the liver suffers from tension, urgently consume sweet flavors to relax it, adapting to its nature to reduce excess.
Minor Purging Liver Decoction
Indicated for liver excess causing pain under both hypochondria radiating to the lower abdomen with urgency [and possibly dry heaving]:
Zhi Shi (Stir-fried Immature Bitter Orange), Bai Shao (White Peony Root), Sheng Jiang (Fresh Ginger), each 3 liang.
These three ingredients are decocted in 3 sheng of Qingjiang water (fermented rice liquid). Reduce to 1 sheng and take in one dose. If not cured, prepare and administer another dose.
Major Purging Liver Decoction
Indicated for headache, red eyes, frequent anger, distending fullness and pain under the hypochondria radiating to the lower abdomen with unbearable urgency:
Zhi Shi (Stir-fried Immature Bitter Orange), Bai Shao (White Peony Root), Zhi Gan Cao (Honey-fried Licorice Root), Huang Qin (Scutellaria Root), Da Huang (Rhubarb Root), Qie Sheng Jiang (Sliced Fresh Ginger), each 1 liang.
These six ingredients are decocted in 5 sheng of water. Reduce to 2 sheng. Take warm, divided into two doses.
Minor Tonifying Liver Decoction
Indicated for [mental] fear and suspicion, frequent nightmares, qi rushing upward to the chest, spontaneous sweating, dizziness, and vertigo:
Gui Zhi (Cinnamon Twig), Gan Jiang (Dried Ginger), Wu Wei Zi (Schisandra Fruit), each 3 liang; Zao (Jujube), 12 pieces, pitted (another version uses Yu Zhu, but follow the original text).
These four ingredients are decocted in 8 sheng of water. Reduce to 3 sheng. Take 1 sheng warm, three times daily. If palpitations are present, add Gui Zhi (Cinnamon Twig) 1.5 liang; if epigastric fullness exists, remove Zao (Jujube); if hunger sensations persist in the chest, retain Zao (Jujube); if coughing, counterflow qi, and severe head pain occur, add Xi Xin (Asarum Root) 1.5 liang; if limbs are cold and urination is difficult, add Fu Zi (Prepared Aconite Root) 1 piece, prepared.
Major Tonifying Liver Decoction
Indicated for liver qi deficiency manifesting as fear and insecurity, qi rising from the lower abdomen to the throat with incessant hiccups, severe dizziness preventing sitting up, sweating, palpitations, dry heaving, inability to eat, and a weak, knotted pulse:
Gui Zhi (Cinnamon Twig), Gan Jiang (Dried Ginger), Wu Wei Zi (Schisandra Fruit), each 3 liang; Xuan Fu Hua (Inula Flower), Dai Zhe Shi (Hematite), each 1 liang (another version uses Mu Dan Pi, but follow the original); Zhu Ye (Bamboo Leaf), 1 liang; Da Zao (Jujube), 12 pieces, pitted (another version uses Yu Zhu; follow the original).
These seven ingredients are decocted in 1 dou of water. Take 1 sheng warm, three times during the day and once at night.
Text and Formulas for Identifying Heart Diseases
Heart deficiency manifests as unceasing sorrow; heart excess manifests as unceasing laughter.
In heart diseases, there is pain inside the chest and heart region, distending fullness under the hypochondria, pain in the anterior chest, back, and scapular region, and pain in the medial aspect of both arms. In deficiency, pain radiates between the chest/abdomen/hypochondria and the waist. Treatment involves needling the Hand-Shaoyin and Hand-Taiyang meridians and bleeding the sublingual vessels. If changes occur, bleed Xi Zhong (BL40).
When pathogenic factors reside in the heart, there is pain in the anterior chest, frequent sorrow, dizziness, and fainting. Adjust based on excess or deficiency. The classics state: "All pathogenic factors affecting the heart are borne by the Pericardium, hence these symptoms."
Tao Hongjing stated: The virtue of the heart lies in softness. Thus, the classics say: Tonify with salty flavors, purge with bitter flavors. When the heart suffers from laxity, urgently consume sour flavors to astringe it.
Minor Purging Heart Decoction
Indicated for sudden severe pain in the heart region, distending fullness under the hypochondria, qi rebelling to attack the anterior chest, back, and scapular region, inability to eat, and worsening upon eating:
Long Dan Cao (Gentian Root), Zhi Zi (Gardenia Fruit), each 3 liang (crushed); Rong Yan (Rock Salt), equivalent to three large apricot seeds, calcined.
These three ingredients are decocted in 3 sheng of vinegar. Reduce to 1 sheng and take in one dose. Shortly after, vomiting will occur, leading to recovery.
Major Purging Heart Decoction
Indicated for acute onset of heart and abdominal pain, stabbing sensation, desire to vomit but unable to, desire to defecate but unable to, profound mental restlessness, distending fullness and urgency in the hypochondria, back, and chest, with no relief:
Long Dan Cao (Gentian Root), Zhi Zi (Gardenia Fruit), each 3 liang (crushed); Ku Shen (Sophora Root), Sheng Ma (Cimicifuga Rhizome), each 2 liang; Chi (Fermented Soybean Paste), 0.5 sheng; Rong Yan (Rock Salt), equivalent to three large apricot seeds.
These six ingredients: take 1 sheng. Profuse vomiting and subsequent diarrhea will occur, leading to recovery (another version excludes Ku Shen and includes Tong Cao 2 liang; follow the original).
Minor Tonifying Heart Decoction
Indicated for Chest Bi (obstruction syndrome), epigastric痞满 (stagnation and fullness), qi stagnating in the chest, occasional rebellious qi rushing from the hypochondria to the heart, and unbearable heart pain:
Gua Lou (Trichosanthes Fruit), 1 piece (crushed); Xie Bai (Macrostemon Bulb), 8 liang; Ban Xia (Pinellia Tuber), 0.5 sheng (washed to remove slipperiness); Hou Po (Magnolia Bark), stir-fried, 2 liang; Gui Zhi (Cinnamon Twig), 1 liang.
These six ingredients are decocted in 1 dou of Baijiang water (white fermented liquid). Reduce to 4 sheng. Take 2 sheng per dose, twice daily. (Another version includes Xing Ren 0.5 sheng and excludes Ban Xia; follow the original).
When the Pericardium qi is in excess due to external pathogenic invasion, symptoms include distending fullness in the chest and hypochondria, palpitations, facial redness, yellow eyes, and unceasing laughter. In deficiency, blood and qi are scant, leading to frequent sorrow; if prolonged without cure, it develops into epilepsy and fainting.
Minor Purging Heart Decoction (Pericardium)
Indicated for distending fullness in the chest and abdomen, and palpitations in the heart:
Huang Lian (Coptis Rhizome), Huang Qin (Scutellaria Root), Da Huang (Rhubarb Root), each 3 liang.
These three ingredients are soaked in 3 sheng of boiling water for the duration of one meal. Strain and take in one dose.
Major Purging Heart Decoction (Pericardium)
Indicated for persistent palpitations, chest oppression, bitter taste in the mouth, oral ulcers, facial redness like makeup, hematemesis, epistaxis, or hematochezia:
Huang Lian (Coptis Rhizome), Huang Qin (Scutellaria Root), Bai Shao (White Peony Root), each 3 liang; Gan Jiang (Dried Ginger, prepared), Zhi Gan Cao (Honey-fried Licorice Root), Da Huang (Rhubarb Root), each 1 liang.
These six ingredients are decocted in 5 sheng of water. Reduce to 2 sheng. Take warm, divided into two doses, twice daily.
Minor Tonifying Heart Decoction (Pericardium)
Indicated for scant blood and qi, palpitations, frequent sorrowful weeping, irritability, sweating, belching, and a knotted pulse:
Dai Zhe Shi (Hematite), calcined and quenched three times in vinegar, crushed (another version uses Mu Dan Pi; follow the original); Xuan Fu Hua (Inula Flower), Zhu Ye (Bamboo Leaf), each 2 liang; Chi (Fermented Soybean Paste), 1 liang (another version uses Shan Yu Rou; follow the original).
These four ingredients are decocted in 8 sheng of water. Reduce to 3 sheng. Take 1 sheng warm, three times daily. If palpitations do not occur, add Dai Zhe Shi to total 4.5 liang; if irritability and sweating occur, remove Chi and add Zhu Ye to total 4.5 liang; if body heat persists, retain Chi; if chest obstruction/pain or epigastric fullness occurs, add Chi to total 4.5 liang; if qi deficiency is distressing, add Zhi Gan Cao 3 liang; if epigastric fullness exists, remove Chi and add Ren Shen 1.5 liang; if cold in the chest with excessive salivation occurs, add Gan Jiang 1.5 liang; if a sensation of blockage in the throat occurs, add Xuan Fu Hua to total 4.5 liang.
Major Tonifying Heart Decoction (Pericardium)
Indicated for mental deficiency with vexation, unresolved restlessness, palpitations like horses galloping, loss of appetite, dry heaving, belching, frequent salivation, and a weak, knotted pulse:
Dai Zhe Shi (Hematite), calcined and quenched three times in vinegar, crushed (another version uses Mu Dan Pi; follow the original); Xuan Fu Hua (Inula Flower), Zhu Ye (Bamboo Leaf), each 3 liang; Chi (Fermented Soybean Paste) (another version uses Shan Yu Rou; follow the original); Ren Shen (Ginseng Root), Zhi Gan Cao (Honey-fried Licorice Root), Gan Jiang (Dried Ginger), each 1 liang.
These seven ingredients are decocted in 1 dou of water. Reduce to 4 sheng. Take 1 sheng warm, three times during the day and once at night.
Text and Formulas for Identifying Spleen Diseases
Spleen excess manifests as abdominal fullness and diarrhea; spleen deficiency manifests as inability to use the limbs and instability of the five zang organs.
In spleen diseases, there is invariably abdominal fullness, borborygmus, loose stools, and indigestion. In deficiency, the body feels heavy, there is a sensation of hunger, muscle pain, foot weakness and flaccidity, intermittent spasms while walking, and foot pain.
When pathogenic factors reside in the spleen, muscle pain occurs. Yang qi deficiency leads to interior cold, borborygmus, and abdominal pain; yin qi deficiency leads to frequent hunger. Regulate Zusanli (ST36).
Tao Hongjing stated: The virtue of the spleen lies in moderation. Thus, the classics say: Tonify with sweet flavors, purge with pungent flavors; when the spleen suffers from dampness, urgently consume bitter flavors to dry it.
Minor Purging Spleen Decoction
Indicated for spleen qi excess with diarrhea of undigested food, interior cold with exterior heat, cold abdomen, and weak pulse:
Fu Zi (Prepared Aconite Root), 1 piece (prepared); Gan Jiang (Dried Ginger), Zhi Gan Cao (Honey-fried Licorice Root), each 3 liang.
These three ingredients are decocted in 3 sheng of water. Reduce to 1 sheng and take in one dose.
Major Purging Spleen Decoction
Indicated for abdominal distension, dry heaving, inability to eat, desire to defecate but failure to pass stool, or intractable diarrhea:
Fu Zi (Prepared Aconite Root), 1 piece (prepared); Gan Jiang (Dried Ginger), 3 liang; Huang Qin (Scutellaria Root), Da Huang (Rhubarb Root), Bai Shao (White Peony Root), [Zhi Shi], Zhi Gan Cao (Honey-fried Licorice Root), each 1 liang.
These six ingredients are decocted in 5 sheng of water. Reduce to 2 sheng. Take warm, divided into two doses, twice daily.
Minor Tonifying Spleen Decoction
Indicated for indigestion, spontaneous vomiting and diarrhea, hunger after vomiting/diarrhea, epigastric fullness, weak and forceless pulse, heavy body, foot flaccidity, and frequent muscle cramps:
Ren Shen (Ginseng Root), Zhi Gan Cao (Honey-fried Licorice Root), Gan Jiang (Dried Ginger), each 3 liang; Bai Zhu (Atractylodes Rhizome), 1 liang.
These four ingredients are decocted in 8 sheng of water. Reduce to 3 sheng. Divide into three doses, three times daily. If there is a pounding sensation above the umbilicus, remove Bai Zhu and add Gui Zhi 4 liang; if vomiting is profuse, remove Bai Zhu and add Sheng Jiang 3 liang; if diarrhea is profuse, retain Bai Zhu; if palpitations occur, add Fu Ling 1 liang; if thirst and desire for water exist, increase Bai Zhu to 4.5 liang; if abdominal fullness exists, remove Bai Zhu and add Fu Zi 1 piece (prepared); if abdominal pain exists, add Ren Shen 1 liang; if cold exists, add Gan Jiang 1 liang.
Major Tonifying Spleen Decoction
Indicated for severe spleen qi exhaustion, indigestion, vomiting, and diarrhea, emaciation, immobility, dry mouth and throat with thirst, sweating, rapid breathing, and a weak, intermittent pulse:
Ren Shen (Ginseng Root), Zhi Gan Cao (Honey-fried Licorice Root), each 3 liang; Gan Jiang (Dried Ginger), 3 liang; Bai Zhu (Atractylodes Rhizome), Mai Dong (Ophiopogon Tuber), Wu Wei Zi (Schisandra Fruit), Xuan Fu Hua (Inula Flower) (another version uses Mu Dan Pi; follow the original), each 1 liang.
These seven ingredients are decocted in 1 dou of water. Reduce to 4 sheng. Take warm, divided into four doses, three times during the day and once at night.
Text and Formulas for Identifying Lung Diseases
Lung deficiency manifests as nasal obstruction; lung excess manifests as wheezing and coughing, requiring leaning forward to breathe.
In lung diseases, there is invariably coughing, wheezing, counterflow qi, shoulder breathing, back pain, sweating, and aversion to wind. In deficiency, there is chest pain, shortness of breath, inability to take deep breaths, deafness, and dry throat.
When pathogenic factors reside in the lung, skin pain, chills and fever, upper jiao wheezing, sweating, and coughing that moves the shoulders and back occur. Stimulate the acupoints on the anterior chest and middle back (third thoracic vertebra lateral), prick where pressure feels comfortable, and stimulate Quepen (LU2) to disperse lung qi.
Tao Hongjing stated: The virtue of the lung lies in astringency. Thus, the classics say: Tonify with sour flavors, purge with salty flavors; when the lung suffers from counterflow qi, consume pungent flavors to disperse it, opening the interstices to promote qi flow.
Minor Purging Lung Decoction
Indicated for coughing, wheezing, counterflow qi, chest oppression, and inability to lie down:
Ting Li Zi (Descurainia Seed), stir-fried until black and crushed into paste; Da Huang (Rhubarb Root), Bai Shao (White Peony Root), each 3 liang.
These three ingredients are decocted in 3 sheng of water. Reduce to 2 sheng. Take warm, divided into two doses. Stop administration once wheezing subsides.
Major Purging Lung Decoction
Indicated for phlegm-fluid retention in the chest, inability to lie down due to wheezing, difficulty in urination and defecation, facial and bodily edema with urgency, and desire for qi regulation:
Ting Li Zi (Descurainia Seed), stir-fried; Da Huang (Rhubarb Root), Bai Shao (White Peony Root), each 2 liang; Zhi Gan Cao (Honey-fried Licorice Root), Huang Qin (Scutellaria Root), Gan Jiang (Dried Ginger), each 1 liang.
These six ingredients are decocted in 5 sheng of water. Reduce to 2 sheng. Take warm, divided into two doses, twice daily.
Minor Tonifying Lung Decoction
Indicated for sweating, thirst, shortness of breath, chest pain, and weak pulse:
Mai Dong (Ophiopogon Tuber), Xuan Fu Hua (Inula Flower), each 3 liang (another version uses Mu Dan Pi; optional); Xi Xin (Asarum Root), 1 liang.
These four ingredients are decocted in 8 sheng of water. Reduce to 3 sheng. Take 1 sheng per dose, three times daily. If chest vexation and heat occur, remove Xi Xin and add Hai Ge Ke 1 liang; if oppressive pain occurs, add Xi Xin 1 liang; if coughing fails to expel sputum and pulse is knotted, double Xuan Fu Hua to 6 liang; if dizziness occurs, remove Xi Xin and add Ze Xie 1 liang; if coughing with hemoptysis occurs, double Mai Dong to 6 liang; if vexation and thirst occur, remove Xi Xin and add Jing Mi (Rice) 0.5 sheng; if excessive saliva occurs, retain Xi Xin and add Ban Xia 0.5 sheng (washed).
Major Tonifying Lung Decoction
Indicated for vexation, heat, sweating, shortness of breath, dry mouth, deafness, and weak, rapid pulse:
Mai Dong (Ophiopogon Tuber), Xuan Fu Hua (Inula Flower), each 3 liang (another version uses Mu Dan Pi; follow the original); Xi Xin (Asarum Root), 1 liang; Di Huang (Rehmannia Root), Zhu Ye (Bamboo Leaf), Gan Cao (Licorice Root), each 1 liang.
These seven ingredients are decocted in 1 dou of water. Reduce to 4 sheng. Take warm, divided into four doses, three times during the day and once at night.
Text and Formulas for Identifying Kidney Diseases
Kidney qi deficiency manifests as cold extremities; kidney excess manifests as abdominal fullness, black complexion, and difficulty in urination.
In kidney diseases, there is invariably abdominal enlargement, leg swelling, heavy body, and somnolence. In deficiency, there is lumbar pain, abdominal pain, contraction of the buttocks, genitals, thighs, knees, and pain in both feet.
When pathogenic factors reside in the kidney, bone pain and Yin Bi (obstruction in the yin regions) occur. Yin Bi is characterized by deep tenderness not relieved by pressure, abdominal distension, lumbar pain, difficulty in defecation, stiffness in the neck and back, and intermittent dizziness/fainting. Stimulate Yongquan (KI1) and Kunlun (BL60); treat excess conditions comprehensively.
Tao Hongjing stated: The virtue of the kidney lies in firmness. Thus, the classics say: Tonify with bitter flavors, purge with sweet flavors; when the kidney suffers from dryness, urgently consume salty flavors to moisten it until fluids are generated.
Minor Purging Kidney Decoction
Indicated for dark, scant urine, lower abdominal fullness, [and occasional leg swelling]:
Fu Ling (Poria), Zhi Gan Cao (Honey-fried Licorice Root), Huang Qin (Scutellaria Root), each 3 liang.
These three ingredients are decocted in 3 sheng of water. Reduce to 1 sheng and take in one dose.
Major Purging Kidney Decoction
Indicated for dark, scant urine, hematuria, lower abdominal urgency and pain, sensation of waist breaking, and tinnitus:
Fu Ling (Poria), Zhi Gan Cao (Honey-fried Licorice Root), Da Huang (Rhubarb Root), Huang Qin (Scutellaria Root), each 3 liang; Bai Shao (White Peony Root), Gan Jiang (Dried Ginger), each 1 liang.
These six ingredients are decocted in 5 sheng of water. Reduce to 2 sheng. Take warm, twice daily.
Minor Tonifying Kidney Decoction
Indicated for consumptive disorders with seminal emission, lumbar pain, bone-steaming emaciation, and rapid pulse:
Di Huang (Rehmannia Root), Zhu Ye (Bamboo Leaf), Zhi Gan Cao (Honey-fried Licorice Root), each 3 liang; Ze Xie (Alisma Rhizome), 1 liang.
These four ingredients are decocted in 8 sheng of water. Reduce to 3 sheng. Take three times daily. If hematuria occurs, remove Ze Xie and add Di Yu 1 liang; if hematochezia occurs, remove Ze Xie and add Fu Long Gan (Dragon's House Earth) equivalent to one chicken egg; if seminal emission is distressing, replace Sheng Di Huang with Shu Di Huang; if cold urine and penile pain occur, double Ze Xie to 2 liang; if lower abdominal urgency is distressing, remove Ze Xie and add Mu Dan Pi 1 liang; if dysuria persists, retain Ze Xie; if irritability occurs, add Zhu Ye; if internal heat occurs, add Zhi Zi 14 pieces (crushed).
Major Tonifying Kidney Decoction
Indicated for scant essence and qi, lumbar pain, kidney flaccidity, inability to walk, counterflow of deficient heat, dizziness, dysuria, and soft, rapid pulse:
Di Huang (Rehmannia Root), Zhu Ye (Bamboo Leaf), Zhi Gan Cao (Honey-fried Licorice Root), each 3 liang; Ze Xie (Alisma Rhizome), Gui Zhi (Cinnamon Twig), Gan Jiang (Dried Ginger), Wu Wei Zi (Schisandra Fruit), each 1 liang.
These seven ingredients are decocted in 1 dou of flowing water. Reduce to 4 sheng. Take gradually, divided into four doses, three times during the day and once at night.
Tao Hongjing said: There are also five purging formulas to rescue complications arising from misdiagnosis and mistreatment of various diseases.
Purging Liver Decoction
Rescues mistreatment with emetics in patients with inherent spiritual/qi deficiency, where phlegm-fluids trigger incessant vomiting, fright, and agitation:
Zhi Shi (Stir-fried Immature Bitter Orange), Bai Shao (White Peony Root), Dai Zhe Shi (Hematite) (another version uses Mu Dan Pi; follow the original), Xuan Fu Hua (Inula Flower), Zhu Ye (Bamboo Leaf), each 3 liang (another version includes Sheng Jiang; follow the original).
These five ingredients are decocted in 7 sheng of water. Reduce to 3 sheng. Take warm, divided into two doses.
Purging Heart Decoction
Rescues mistreatment with cooling/purgative methods in patients with inherent strong yang qi, where external pathogens invade due to deficiency, causing epigastric fullness, inability to eat, intractable diarrhea, borborygmus, and abdominal pain:
Huang Lian (Coptis Rhizome), Huang Qin (Scutellaria Root), Ren Shen (Ginseng Root), Zhi Gan Cao (Honey-fried Licorice Root), Gan Jiang (Dried Ginger), each 3 liang (another version includes Da Zao).
These five ingredients are decocted in 7 sheng of water. Reduce to 3 sheng. Take warm, divided into two doses.
Purging Spleen Decoction
Rescues mistreatment with cold/cold-natured methods in patients with inherent strong yin qi, where defensive qi is blocked, causing abdominal stagnation and fullness, and persistent cold:
Fu Zi (Prepared Aconite Root), Gan Jiang (Dried Ginger), Mai Dong (Ophiopogon Tuber), Wu Wei Zi (Schisandra Fruit), Xuan Fu Hua (Inula Flower), each 3 liang (another version includes Xi Xin 3 liang).
These five ingredients are decocted in 7 sheng of water. Reduce to 3 sheng. Take warm, divided into two doses.
Purging Lung Decoction
Rescues mistreatment with fire therapy in patients with inherently restless blood, causing delirium, hematemesis, epistaxis, chest vexation/fullness, and qi stagnation:
Ting Li Zi (Descurainia Seed), stir-fried until black and crushed into paste; Da Huang (Rhubarb Root), Sheng Di Huang (Raw Rehmannia Root), Zhu Ye (Bamboo Leaf), Zhi Gan Cao (Honey-fried Licorice Root), each 3 liang.
These five ingredients are decocted in 7 sheng of water. Reduce to 3 sheng. Take warm, divided into two doses.
Purging Kidney Decoction
Rescues mistreatment with sweating methods in patients with inherently weak yang qi, causing counterflow of yin qi, palpitations, dizziness, and incessant sweating:
Fu Ling (Poria), Zhi Gan Cao (Honey-fried Licorice Root), Gui Zhi (Cinnamon Twig), Sheng Jiang (Fresh Ginger), Wu Wei Zi (Schisandra Fruit), each 3 liang.
These five ingredients are decocted in 7 sheng of water. Reduce to 3 sheng. Take warm, divided into two doses.
Tao Hongjing said: Classical formulas also include five prescriptions for rescuing various consumptive disorders. However, observing their core principles, they essentially involve modifications of tonifying formulas for deficiency syndromes. They are recorded here to assist in cultivation and save lives. Their principles are profound and subtle, beyond the comprehension of the superficial. Since consumptive disorders involve mutual overacting of zang organs, mixed deficiency and excess, concurrent use of cold and hot herbs, and combined tonification and purging, these hidden teachings of the sages are extraordinary. Since the Han and Jin dynasties, renowned physicians such as Zhang Zhongjing, Wei Xu, Hua Tuo, Wu Pu, Huangfu Mi, Zhi Fa Shi, Ge Hong, and General Fan have all modeled themselves on this *Shangye Jingfa* (Classic of Soup Liquids). Compassionate towards suffering and beneficial to all living beings, although their modifications varied and produced new effects, seemingly disrupting old canons, their underlying intent remains within the compass and square (principles).
Fuxing Jue Zangfu Yongyao Fayao (Part II)
Written by Tao Hongjing, the Recluse of Huayang, Liang Dynasty
Yangsheng Tonifying Liver Decoction
Indicated for liver deficiency, extreme tendon pathology, abdominal hardness and masses, and fecal impaction:
Shu Jiao (Sichuan Pepper), sweat-dried, 1 sheng; Gui Xin (Cinnamon Heart), 3 liang; Jiu Ye (Garlic Chive Leaves), chopped, one handful; Bai Shao (White Peony Root), 3 liang; Mang Xiao (Mirabilite), 0.5 jin; Hu Ma You (Sesame Oil), 1 sheng.
These six ingredients are decocted in 5 sheng of water. Boil pepper, garlic chives, etc., to obtain 3 sheng. Strain, add Mang Xiao, wait for dissolution, then stop heating. Pour in Sesame Oil. While hot, vigorously stir with three mulberry branches (approx. 1 chi long each) until blended with Bai Shao. Total volume approx. 3 sheng. Take warm, divided into three doses, consumed within one day.
Tiaozhong Tonifying Heart Decoction
Indicated for heart labor causing extreme pulse pathology, mental vexation, palpitations, and confusion:
Xuan Fu Hua (Inula Flower), 1 sheng (another version uses Mu Dan Pi 4 liang; follow the original); Li Zi (Chestnut), shelled and crushed, 12 pieces; Cong Ye (Green Onion Leaf), 14 stems; Chi (Fermented Soybean Paste), 0.5 jin (another version uses Shan Yu Rou; follow the original); Zhi Zi (Gardenia Fruit), 14 pieces (crushed); Ren Shen (Ginseng Root), sliced, 3 liang.
These six ingredients are decocted in 4 sheng of clear wine and 6 sheng of water. Reduce to 3 sheng. Take gradually, divided into three doses, three times daily.
Jianzhong Tonifying Spleen Decoction
Indicated for spleen deficiency causing extreme muscle pathology, emaciation, abdominal tension, and limb weakness:
Zhi Gan Cao (Honey-fried Licorice Root), 2 liang; Da Zao (Jujube), 12 pieces, pitted; Sheng Jiang (Fresh Ginger), sliced, 3 liang; Huang Yi (Maltose), 1 sheng; Gui Zhi (Cinnamon Twig), 2 liang; Bai Shao (White Peony Root), 6 liang.
These six ingredients are decocted in 7 sheng of water. Reduce to 3 sheng. Strain, add Maltose, reheat until dissolved. Take 1 sheng warm, consumed within one day.