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(See the chapter on Xiao Ke [Wasting and Thirsting Syndrome].) It treats Pi Shui [Edema of the Skin] caused by Jue [reversal/circulatory failure] syndrome. This formula is indicated.

Commentary: When Pi Shui persists for a long time and leads to ulceration, it is considered a Ni [adverse/rebellious] pattern rather than a smooth one. Applying this powder externally is the treatment. The character "Jue" here refers to the rebellious nature of the syndrome, not to Si Zhi Jue Ni [cold extremities].

It treats Huang Han [Yellow Sweat Disease], characterized by body swelling, fever, sweating with thirst, resembling Feng Shui [Wind Water edema]. The sweat stains the clothing yellow like cypress juice. This condition arises from bathing in water while sweating, allowing water qi to enter through the sweat pores. This decoction is indicated.

Huang Qi (Astragali Radix, 5 liang), Shao Yao (Paeoniae Radix Alba, 3 liang), Gui Zhi (Cinnamomi Ramulus, 3 liang).

The above three herbs are combined with one sheng [approx. 200ml] of Ku Jiu [bitter wine/vinegar] and seven sheng of water, boiled until three sheng remain. Take one sheng warm. One should experience mental restlessness (Xin Fan); after six or seven days, the condition will resolve.

Song says: Huang Han presents with a deep pulse and yellow sweat. Water damages the Heart Fire, causing disaster due to stagnation. (The Master said: Bathing in water while sweating allows water qi to enter via sweat pores and injure the Heart Yang.)

Mr. Yuan Xi notes: Gui Zhi circulates Yang Qi; Shao Yao nourishes Yin Blood; Huang Qi has a light and clear aroma, with its outer bark being the most potent, thus reaching the skin rapidly. Now, boiling with Ku Jiu... [text fragment] ...restlessness.

Another commentary: One should read texts flexibly. This syndrome can also be caused by sweating after drinking alcohol and exposing oneself to wind. Although there is no external water invasion, the sweat itself is also a pathogenic water-dampness factor.

In Huang Han disease, the calves are naturally cold. If fever occurs, it belongs to Li Jie [Bi Syndrome affecting joints]. Sweating after eating, along with frequent night sweats in the evening, indicates... [text fragment].

If fever persists after sweating, over time the body will develop Jia Cuo [rough, scaly skin]. Persistent fever will inevitably lead to malignant sores. If the body feels heavy and sweating... [text fragment] ...over time the body will... [text fragment]. There may be chest pain, sweating above the waist but none below, flaccid pain in the lower back, and a sensation of an object in the skin.

Regarding diet, body pain and heaviness, irritability, and difficult urination indicate Huang Han. This decoction is indicated.

Gui Zhi (Cinnamomi Ramulus), Shao Yao (Paeoniae Radix Alba), Sheng Jiang (Zingiberis Rhizoma Recens) (each 3 liang), Gan Cao (Glycyrrhizae Radix et Rhizoma), Huang Qi (Astragali Radix) (each 2 liang), Da Zao (Ziziphi Jujubae Fructus) (12 pieces).

The above six herbs are boiled in eight sheng of water until three sheng remain. Take one sheng warm. Shortly after, drink more than one sheng of hot thin porridge to assist the medicinal power. Cover with blankets to induce slight sweating.

Song says: Huang Han all stems from stagnant heat; detailed analysis of its variations requires careful consideration. The original Gui Zhi Tang dosage plus two liang of Huang Qi; drinking hot porridge warms and resolves the stagnation (long-term stagnation transforms into complications...).

Mr. Yuan Xi notes: Huang Han originates from stagnant heat. If sweating does not penetrate thoroughly, the stagnant heat cannot reach the exterior. Although Gui Zhi Tang harmonizes Ying and Wei, drinking porridge can promote... [text fragment] ...this formula... diagnostic methods.