Chinese Medicinal Formulas/Xiao Chaihu Tang

Introduction

This formula was first published in Shanghan Lun (Treatise on Exogenous Febrile Diseases). Its Chinese name means "Minor Decoction of Bupleurum". This formula is typically decocted in water for oral application.

Ingredients

The ingredients of Xiao Chaihu Tang are:

1. Chaihu - 24g,
2. Huangqin - 9g,
3. Renshen - 9g,
4. Zhigancao - 6g,
5. Banxia - 9g,
6. Shengjiang - 9g,
7. Dazao - 4 pieces.

The main herb is Chaihu which expels the pathogenic factors in the shaoyang meridian. The secondary herb is Huangqin which purges accumulated heat. Renshen, Zhigancao and Dazao supplement Qi and strengthen body resistance. Banxia and Shenjiang regulate the stomach and prevent vomiting. Zhigancao coordinates the actions of various herbs in the formula.

Application

This formula has been used for attacks of chills and fever, fullness of the chest, influenza, the common cold, chronic hepatitis, acute or chronic cholecystitis, pleuristis, pyelonephritis, postpartum infection, gastric ulcer and other febrile diseases of the shaoyang meridian.