TCM formulas database
Classical TCM formulas for the skin
Each formula page shows the role of every ingredient, the pattern the formula addresses, the skin conditions it is prescribed for, the safety limits, and how it differs from its nearest relatives.
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B
- Ba Zhen Tang八珍汤bā zhēn tāng Rebuilds substance in skin that has gone pale, dry and thin, and helps tissue that heals slowly close. The picture is a depleted surface with a dull complexion, easy bruising and grazes… Actions: Tonifies Qi, Nourishes Blood, Strengthens the SpleenHerbs: Ren Shen, Bai Zhu, Fu Ling, Gan Cao, and 4 more
- Ba Zheng San八正散bā zhèng sǎn Clears hot, red, damp lesions of the lower body by draining the Damp-Heat behind them out through the urine. The pattern is Heat and Dampness collecting low, so the skin is hot and angry… Actions: Clears Heat and drains Dampness, Promotes urination and relieves burning, Clears Damp-Heat from the lower bodyHerbs: Hua Shi, Mu Tong, Bian Xu, Qu Mai, and 4 more
- Bai Hu Jia Gui Zhi Tang白虎加桂枝汤bái hǔ jiā guì zhī tāng Takes heat out of skin that is hot, red and stretched over a painful joint, easing the swelling with it. The pattern is strong Heat lodged in the channels: fever, thirst, a red tongue with… Actions: Clears strong Heat, Protects the fluids, Reaches the joints and channelsHerbs: Shi Gao, Zhi Mu, Gui Zhi, Jing Mi, and 1 more
- Bai Hu Tang白虎汤bái hǔ tāng Cools skin that turns red, hot and flushed in high fever, and settles the mottled discolouration. The pattern is strong Heat at the Qi level: fever, profuse sweating, thirst, a forceful… Actions: Clears strong Heat from the Qi level, Protects the fluids, Relieves fever and thirstHerbs: Shi Gao, Zhi Mu, Gan Cao, Jing Mi
- Bi Xie Fen Qing Yin萆薢分清饮bì xiè fēn qīng yǐn Settles damp, itchy lower-body skin with a cold quality, where the tissue looks pale and sodden. The pattern is a cold Kidney failing to separate the clear from the turbid, so turbid fluid… Actions: Warms the Kidney and dispels Cold, Drains Dampness and separates the clear from the turbid, Secures the EssenceHerbs: Bi Xie, Yi Zhi Ren, Wu Yao, Shi Chang Pu
- Bi Xie Shen Shi Tang萆薢渗湿汤bì xiè shèn shī tāng Dries and cools red, itchy, weeping skin of the legs, feet and skin folds. The pattern is Damp-Heat settling low, producing skin that is both red and wet, macerated where surfaces meet and… Actions: It clears the Heat behind the redness and drains the Dampness behind the weep., Drains turbid Dampness from the lower body, Cools the BloodHerbs: Bi Xie, Yi Yi Ren, Chi Fu Ling, Hua Shi, and 4 more
- Bie Jia Jian Wan鳖甲煎丸biē jiǎ jiān wán Works on old, hard, dusky tissue changed for years, softening what has set. The pattern is a chronic mass of Blood stasis, Phlegm and Cold on a depleted base, so the skin over it looks dark… Actions: Softens hardness and dissipates masses, Breaks old Blood stasis, Transforms Phlegm and DampnessHerbs: Bie Jia, Xiao Shi, Chai Hu, Qiang Lang, and 19 more
- Bing Peng San冰硼散bīng péng sǎn Applied straight to a hot, painful lesion, this powder cools it, eases pain and dries the weeping. The pattern is toxic Heat in the tissue, as a mouth ulcer, inflamed gums or a small… Actions: Clears Heat and resolves toxicity topically, Relieves pain of hot lesions, Dries weeping skin lesionsHerbs: Bing Pian, Zhu Sha, Peng Sha, Mang Xiao
- Bu Yang Huan Wu Tang补阳还五汤bǔ yáng huán wǔ tāng Skin that has gone dusky, cold and slow to heal is what this formula restores, because it rebuilds the Qi that pushes Blood through the fine vessels. The pattern is stasis born of weakness… Actions: Tonifies Qi, Invigorates Blood, Dispels stasisHerbs: Huang Qi, Dang Gui, Chi Shao, Chuan Xiong, and 3 more
- Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang补中益气汤bǔ zhōng yì qì tāng Skin that has lost tone, looks pale and thin and heals slowly is what this formula addresses, because it treats the failing Spleen Qi that should hold tissue up and rebuild it. The pattern… Actions: Tonifies Qi and strengthens the Spleen, Lifts sunken Yang and Qi, Nourishes BloodHerbs: Huang Qi, Ren Shen, Bai Zhu, Gan Cao, and 4 more
C
- Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan苍附导痰丸cāng fù dǎo tán wán Soft doughy lumps that move under the finger are what this formula softens, because it treats the Phlegm-Dampness that gathered them. The pattern is sluggish Qi and thick fluid rather than… Actions: Transforms Phlegm and dries Dampness, Moves Qi and relieves stagnation, Softens nodules and congestionHerbs: Cang Zhu, Xiang Fu, Ban Xia, Dan Nan Xing, and 6 more
- Chai Hu Shu Gan San柴胡疏肝散chái hú shū gān sǎn Skin that itches or flares when tension builds, feeling tight rather than inflamed, is what this powder loosens, because it moves the Liver Qi whose constraint drives the flare. The pattern… Actions: Courses the Liver and resolves constraint, Moves Qi and relieves pain, Opens the chest and abdomenHerbs: Chai Hu, Xiang Fu, Chuan Xiong, Chen Pi, and 3 more
D
- Da Bu Yin Wan大补阴丸dà bǔ yīn wán Dry thin skin that burns or flushes is what this pill treats, because it rebuilds the deep Yin whose absence let heat rise to the surface. The pattern is emptiness with fire: night sweats,… Actions: Nourishes Yin strongly, Clears deficiency Heat, Drains ministerial FireHerbs: Shu Di Huang, Gui Ban, Huang Bo, Zhi Mu
- Da Huang Zhe Chong Wan大黄䗪虫丸dà huáng zhè chóng wán Skin that has turned dusky, mottled or dry and withered is what this pill addresses, because it breaks stasis that has dried the Blood and depleted the surface. The pattern is deep and… Actions: Breaks Blood stasis strongly, Dispels old fixed masses, Nourishes the Blood that stasis has driedHerbs: Da Huang, Tu Bie Chong, Tao Ren, Gan Qi, and 8 more
- Dan Zhi Xiao Yao San丹栀逍遥散dān zhī xiāo yáo sǎn Skin that flushes, burns or erupts when stress runs high is what this powder cools, because it treats constraint that has generated Heat. The pattern is stagnation with Heat: a bitter… Actions: Courses the Liver and resolves constraint, Clears Heat and cools the Blood, Strengthens the SpleenHerbs: Chai Hu, Mu Dan Pi, Zhi Zi, Dang Gui, and 6 more
- Dang Gui Di Huang Yin当归地黄饮dāng guī dì huáng yǐn Dry, itchy skin on a depleted constitution, sometimes with small vesicles, is what this drink treats, because it rebuilds the Blood and Yin that keep the skin moist. The pattern is… Actions: Nourishes Blood and Yin, Strengthens the Liver and Kidney, Moistens drynessHerbs: Shu Di Huang, Dang Gui, Shan Zhu Yu, Shan Yao, and 3 more
- Dang Gui Liu Huang Tang当归六黄汤dāng guī liù huáng tāng Flushed skin that sweats through the night in a depleted person is what this formula addresses. The Heat comes from Yin and Blood deficiency, leaving the surface unheld so fluids escape… Actions: Nourishes Blood and Yin, Clears Heat from the three burners, Consolidates the surface and stops sweatingHerbs: Dang Gui, Sheng Di Huang, Shu Di Huang, Huang Lian, and 3 more
- Dang Gui Long Hui Wan当归龙荟丸dāng guī lóng huì wán Hot red lesions in a strong, constipated person are what this formula targets, and it is reserved for that excess picture. The Fire has no downward outlet, so it rises and pushes out… Actions: Drains Liver Fire strongly, Purges Heat downward, Cools the BloodHerbs: Long Dan Cao, Da Huang, Lu Hui, Huang Lian, and 7 more
- Dang Gui Si Ni Tang当归四逆汤dāng guī sì nì tāng Cold, dusky skin on the hands and feet, slow to heal and prone to cracking in winter, is what this formula addresses. Blood is too thin to reach the periphery and Cold congeals what does… Actions: Warms the channels and disperses Cold, Nourishes and moves Blood, Restores warmth to the extremitiesHerbs: Dang Gui, Gui Zhi, Bai Shao, Xi Xin, and 3 more
- Dang Gui Yin Zi当归饮子dāng guī yǐn zǐ Dry, rough, scaly skin that itches worse at night in a pale, tired person is what this formula addresses. Blood moistens the skin, so when Blood is low the surface dries and generates the… Actions: Nourishes Blood and moistens Dryness, Dispels Wind and stops itching, Tonifies Qi and consolidates the exteriorHerbs: Dang Gui, Sheng Di Huang, Bai Shao, Chuan Xiong, and 6 more
- Dao Chi San导赤散dǎo chì sǎn Red, inflamed patches that flare with restlessness, thirst and broken sleep are the skin picture this small formula addresses. The Heat sits in the Heart channel, which shows on the tongue… Actions: Clears Heart Heat, Guides Heat out through the urine, Cools the BloodHerbs: Sheng Di Huang, Mu Tong, Zhu Ye, Gan Cao
- Di Dang Tang抵当汤dǐ dāng tāng Fixed, dusky, hardened tissue that has resisted gentler treatment is the skin picture this formula is reserved for. The stasis is old and hard, which is why ordinary Blood-moving herbs do… Actions: Breaks deep fixed Blood stasis, Dispels hard masses, Moves Blood downwardHerbs: Shui Zhi, Meng Chong, Tao Ren, Da Huang
- Di Huang Yin Zi地黄饮子dì huáng yǐn zǐ Thin, dry, cold skin with poor circulation and numbness in someone deeply worn down is what this formula addresses. Yin and Yang are both depleted, so the surface is dry for want of… Actions: Nourishes Yin and warms Yang together, Fills the Essence, Opens the orifices and settles the spiritHerbs: Shu Di Huang, Shan Zhu Yu, Rou Cong Rong, Ba Ji Tian, and 9 more
- Du Huo Ji Sheng Tang独活寄生汤dú huó jì shēng tāng Skin that has gone thick, numb and cold over a longstanding painful area is what this formula suits, where the tissue is weather-sensitive rather than hot and inflamed. Wind-Cold-Dampness… Actions: Dispels Wind-Cold-Dampness, Tonifies Qi and Blood, Strengthens the Liver and KidneyHerbs: Du Huo, Xi Xin, Fang Feng, Qin Jiao, and 11 more
E
- Er Chen Tang二陈汤èr chén tāng Er Chen Tang takes the heaviness out of skin that has gone puffy, doughy and boggy, drying the fluid that leaves it soft and slow. The picture is a pale, often oily surface with soft cysts… Actions: Dries Dampness and transforms Phlegm, Regulates Qi and harmonises the middle, Stops nauseaHerbs: Ban Xia, Chen Pi, Fu Ling, Gan Cao
- Er Miao San二妙散èr miào sǎn Er Miao San is for skin that is wet and hot at once: red, itchy and weeping, or macerated where skin meets skin, and worse in heat and humidity. The picture collects low and in the folds,… Actions: Clears Heat and dries Dampness, Clears Damp-Heat from the lower body, Relieves itching and weepingHerbs: Huang Bo, Cang Zhu
- Er Zhi Wan二至丸èr zhì wán Er Zhi Wan works on skin that has lost its suppleness, where the dryness is thin, fine and settled rather than inflamed. It comes with thinning or greying hair, dry eyes and lower back… Actions: Nourishes Liver and Kidney Yin, Moistens dryness, Cools the Blood gentlyHerbs: Nu Zhen Zi, Mo Han Lian
F
- Fang Feng Tong Sheng San防风通圣散fáng fēng tōng shèng sǎn Fang Feng Tong Sheng San is for hot, angry skin on a robust body running hot, where itchy eruptions, hives or boils come with a red face, thirst and a bowel that has stopped moving. The… Actions: Releases the exterior and disperses Wind-Heat, Clears Heat and drains downward, Purges the bowelHerbs: Fang Feng, Ma Huang, Da Huang, Mang Xiao, and 13 more
- Fu Yuan Huo Xue Tang复元活血汤fù yuán huó xuè tāng Fu Yuan Huo Xue Tang is for skin left dusky, swollen and tight after a blow, with purple bruising and pain that is fixed and worse on pressure. The picture is trapped Blood, not Heat: the… Actions: Invigorates Blood and breaks stasis, Clears stagnation downward, Relieves pain and swelling from injuryHerbs: Da Huang, Chai Hu, Tao Ren, Hong Hua, and 4 more
- Fu Zi Li Zhong Tang附子理中汤fù zǐ lǐ zhōng tāng Fu Zi Li Zhong Tang is for cold, pale, thin skin that is slow to close over, where a small injury or burn stays sensitive and tight long after it should. Underneath is deep Cold with… Actions: Warms the middle and dispels Cold, Restores Yang and warms the Kidney, Tonifies Qi and strengthens the SpleenHerbs: Zhi Fu Zi, Gan Jiang, Ren Shen, Bai Zhu, and 1 more
G
- Gan Lu Xiao Du Dan甘露消毒丹gān lù xiāo dú dān Gan Lu Xiao Du Dan is for skin that breaks out during a Damp-Heat illness, when boils or inflamed follicles appear with a heavy head, a bitter taste and a thick yellow tongue coat. The skin… Actions: Clears Heat and resolves toxicity, Transforms Dampness and turbidity, Opens the orifices and clears the headHerbs: Hua Shi, Yin Chen, Huang Qin, Shi Chang Pu, and 7 more
- Gua Lou Niu Bang Tang栝楼牛蒡汤guā lóu niú bàng tāng Gua Lou Niu Bang Tang is for the breast that turns hot, swollen and painful, with red, possibly cracked skin, and it works before an abscess forms. The pattern is Heat with Qi stagnation:… Actions: Clears Heat and resolves toxicity, Disperses swelling and softens masses, Frees Qi and relieves congestionHerbs: Gua Lou Ren, Niu Bang Zi, Jin Yin Hua, Lian Qiao, and 8 more
- Gui Pi Tang归脾汤guī pí tāng Skin that is pale, thin and slow to heal, bruising at the slightest knock and sometimes dotted with purpuric spots, is this tonic's picture. The root is a Spleen too tired to make Blood and… Actions: Tonifies Qi, Nourishes Blood, Strengthens the SpleenHerbs: Huang Qi, Long Yan Rou, Ren Shen, Bai Zhu, and 8 more
- Gui Zhi Fu Ling Wan桂枝茯苓丸guì zhī fú líng wán Fixed, hard lumps under the skin that are not hot or red, dusky discolouration and old indurated lesions that will not resolve are what this pill is for. The lump is read as Blood congealed… Actions: Invigorates Blood and dispels stasis, Transforms Phlegm-Dampness, Softens hardness and dissipates massesHerbs: Gui Zhi, Tao Ren, Mu Dan Pi, Bai Shao, and 1 more
- Gui Zhi Jia Long Gu Mu Li Tang桂枝加龙骨牡蛎汤guì zhī jiā lóng gǔ mǔ lì tāng Skin that is clammy or damp to the touch, dusky and poorly regulated on a thin, depleted person, is where this formula fits. The surface is not held, so sweat leaks and the spirit floats,… Actions: Harmonises the Ying and Wei levels, Astringes and stops spontaneous sweating, Settles the spirit and palpitationsHerbs: Gui Zhi, Long Gu, Mu Li Ke, Bai Shao, and 3 more
- Gui Zhi Ma Huang Ge Ban Tang桂枝麻黄各半汤guì zhī má huáng gè bàn tāng Urticaria or persistent itch that drifts in and out without much heat and never settles is the skin picture this formula suits. The surface is caught between open and closed, so the… Actions: Releases the exterior gently, Harmonises the Ying and Wei levels, Settles a lingering surface patternHerbs: Gui Zhi, Ma Huang, Bai Shao, Xing Ren, and 3 more
- Gui Zhi Tang桂枝汤guì zhī tāng Clammy or moist skin that feels cool, is wind-sensitive and breaks out in hives with sweating is the picture this formula is for. The surface is out of step rather than under attack: it… Actions: Releases the exterior gently, Harmonises the Ying and Wei levels, Warms and regulates the surfaceHerbs: Gui Zhi, Bai Shao, Sheng Jiang, Da Zao, and 1 more
H
- Hai Zao Yu Hu Tang海藻玉壶汤hǎi zǎo yù hú tāng Firm nodules and congested lumps that sit in the skin without heat or redness, such as cystic indurated acne or lipomas, are what this formula softens. The nodule is read as Phlegm held by… Actions: Softens hardness and dissipates nodules, Transforms Phlegm, Moves Qi and BloodHerbs: Hai Zao, Kun Bu, Zhe Bei Mu, Ban Xia, and 7 more
- Huang Lian Jie Du Tang黄连解毒汤huáng lián jiě dú tāng Skin that is red, hot, swollen and painful, burning to the touch and spreading is what this formula is reserved for. Heat intense enough to damage tissue and form pus is read as toxicity,… Actions: Drains Fire, Resolves toxicity, Clears Heat from the three burnersHerbs: Huang Lian, Huang Qin, Huang Bo, Zhi Zi
- Huang Qi Gui Zhi Wu Wu Tang黄芪桂枝五物汤huáng qí guì zhī wǔ wù tāng Skin that feels numb, cool, thick or insensitive, or dry and cracked for lack of supply, is what this formula treats. Qi and Blood are failing to reach the surface, so the tissue is… Actions: Tonifies Qi and warms Yang, Harmonises the Ying and Wei levels, Moves Blood to the surfaceHerbs: Huang Qi, Gui Zhi, Bai Shao, Sheng Jiang, and 1 more
- Huo Xiang Zheng Qi San藿香正气散huò xiāng zhèng qì sǎn Warms and dries skin that has gone cool, congested or mottled, where the surface feels heavy and shut down. The pattern is Damp-Cold in the middle and the surface at once, so the mottling… Actions: Aromatically transforms Dampness, Disperses Wind-Cold from the surface, Regulates Qi and harmonises the middleHerbs: Huo Xiang, Ban Xia, Hou Po, Zi Su Ye, and 7 more
- Huo Xue Zhi Tong San活血止痛散huó xuè zhǐ tòng sǎn Settles dusky, swollen, bruised skin after an injury, where the tissue is dark, hard and sore to press. The pattern is Blood stasis left by the trauma, so colour drains from the area,… Actions: Invigorates Blood and breaks stasis, Relieves pain quickly, Reduces swelling and bruisingHerbs: Dang Gui, Tu Bie Chong, Zi Ran Tong, San Qi, and 2 more
J
- Ji Sheng Shen Qi Wan济生肾气丸jì shēng shèn qì wán Reduces cold, pale puffiness of the face and legs, where the skin looks waterlogged and feels chilled rather than hot. The pattern is a weak Kidney Yang that no longer drives water… Actions: Warms Kidney Yang, Drains Dampness and reduces swelling, Strengthens the lower back and legsHerbs: Zhi Fu Zi, Rou Gui, Shu Di Huang, Shan Zhu Yu, and 6 more
- Jia Wei Xiao Yao San加味逍遥散jiā wèi xiāo yáo sǎn Settles itching, flushing and small flat spots that flare when life gets stressful, and calms scalp itch on the same trigger. The pattern is Liver Qi held in long enough to generate Heat on… Actions: Courses the Liver and resolves constraint, Clears Heat and cools the Blood, Strengthens the SpleenHerbs: Chai Hu, Dang Gui, Bai Shao, Mu Dan Pi, and 6 more
- Jin Gui Shen Qi Wan金匮肾气丸jīn guì shèn qì wán Warms skin that has gone cold, pale and puffy, where circulation is poor and patches feel numb or chilled. The pattern is Kidney Yang deficiency, so the surface loses its warmth, the urine… Actions: Warms Kidney Yang, Supports the transformation of fluids, Strengthens the lower back and legsHerbs: Zhi Fu Zi, Gui Zhi, Shu Di Huang, Shan Zhu Yu, and 4 more
- Jin Huang Gao金黄膏jīn huáng gāo Cools a hot, red, swollen patch of skin, taking the heat and congestion out of a lesion not yet broken. The pattern is localised Toxic-Heat with Blood congested at the surface, so the… Actions: Clears Heat and resolves toxicity topically, Disperses swelling and relieves pain, Moves Blood at the surfaceHerbs: Tian Hua Fen, Huang Bo, Da Huang, Jiang Huang, and 6 more
- Jing Fang Bai Du San荆防败毒散jīng fáng bài dú sǎn Vents the first days of a rash or hives that arrive with chills, a clammy surface and an aching body. The pattern is Wind-Cold with Dampness at the surface, so the itch moves about, the… Actions: Dispels Wind-Cold and releases the exterior, Dispels Dampness and relieves aching, Moves Qi and Blood to the surfaceHerbs: Jing Jie, Fang Feng, Qiang Huo, Du Huo, and 7 more
- Juan Bi Tang蠲痹汤juān bì tāng Loosens tight, numb, weather-sensitive tissue over stiff joints, where limbs feel heavy and the skin will not stretch. The pattern is Wind-Cold-Dampness lodged in the channels on thin Qi… Actions: Dispels Wind-Dampness, Tonifies Qi and harmonises the channels, Nourishes Blood and softens the sinewsHerbs: Qiang Huo, Fang Feng, Huang Qi, Dang Gui, and 3 more
L
- Lian Po Yin连朴饮lián pò yǐn Skin that flares with a digestive episode is the target: greasy congested follicles, pustules and eruptions in the folds, with nausea, fullness and a bitter taste. Huang Lian and Zhi Zi… Actions: The formula clears the Heat, dries the Dampness and restores the descent., Settles the Stomach and stops vomiting, Moves Qi and relieves fullnessHerbs: Huang Lian, Hou Po, Zhi Zi, Dan Dou Chi, and 3 more
- Liang Xue Di Huang Tang凉血地黄汤liáng xuè dì huáng tāng The skin picture is Heat in the Blood pushing out of the vessels: bright red or purpuric spots, easy bruising, sometimes bleeding from the nose or gums, a crimson tongue and a rapid pulse.… Actions: Cools the Blood, Clears Heat, Stops bleedingHerbs: Sheng Di Huang, Chi Shao, Dang Gui, Di Yu, and 7 more
- Liang Xue Qing Fei Yin凉血清肺汤liáng xuè qīng fèi tāng The skin picture is facial: a red congested nose or cheeks with prominent capillaries and inflammatory oiliness, read as Lung Heat carried to the surface by the Blood. Sheng Di Huang, Mu… Actions: Cools the Blood, Clears Heat from the Lungs, Reduces facial redness and congestionHerbs: Sheng Di Huang, Mu Dan Pi, Chi Shao, Huang Qin, and 5 more
- Ling Gui Zhu Gan Tang苓桂术甘汤líng guì zhú gān tāng The skin picture is cool, clammy and puffy rather than red or dry: weeping eczema on a cold base, tissue that holds fluid, damp lesions that heal slowly. Fu Ling drains the fluid through… Actions: Warms Yang and transforms fluid, Drains Dampness, Strengthens the SpleenHerbs: Fu Ling, Gui Zhi, Bai Zhu, Gan Cao
- Liu Jun Zi Tang六君子汤liù jūn zǐ tāng The skin picture is puffy, doughy and congested, with a sallow or dusky complexion and a greasy tongue coat, alongside fatigue and poor digestion rather than heat. Ren Shen, Bai Zhu, Fu… Actions: Tonifies Spleen Qi, Transforms Phlegm and dries Dampness, Moves Qi and relieves fullnessHerbs: Ren Shen, Bai Zhu, Ban Xia, Fu Ling, and 2 more
- Liu Wei Di Huang Wan六味地黄丸liù wèi dì huáng wán The skin is dry, thin and inelastic, with hair that thins or greys early and pigmentation that comes with age rather than inflammation. Shu Di Huang fills the Kidney Yin the moistening… Actions: Nourishes Kidney Yin, Supplements Liver and Spleen Yin, Secures the EssenceHerbs: Shu Di Huang, Shan Zhu Yu, Shan Yao, Ze Xie, and 2 more
- Liu Yi San六一散liù yī sǎn The skin picture is the itchy eruption of hot humid weather: prickly heat, heat rash and early hot eruptions with heat signs, which the powder can also be applied to. Hua Shi, six parts of… Actions: Clears summer Heat, Drains Dampness through the urine, Relieves thirst and restlessnessHerbs: Hua Shi, Gan Cao
- Long Dan Xie Gan Tang龙胆泻肝汤lóng dǎn xiè gān tāng The skin is hot, red and often wet: a band-like shingles eruption, genital itching or discharge with redness, or weeping eczema that feels hot, with a bitter taste or dark urine pointing to… Actions: Drains excess Fire from the Liver and Gallbladder, Clears Damp-Heat from the Liver channel, Drains Damp-Heat downward through the urineHerbs: Long Dan Cao, Huang Qin, Zhi Zi, Ze Xie, and 6 more
M
- Ma Huang Fu Zi Xi Xin Tang麻黄附子细辛汤má huáng fù zǐ xì xīn tāng Cold, pale, firm or tight skin in a cold and depleted person is the picture this formula treats. The Cold has settled because the Yang is too weak to push it out, so the tissue stays tight,… Actions: Warms Yang and releases the exterior, Disperses Cold from the channels, Opens the LungsHerbs: Ma Huang, Zhi Fu Zi, Xi Xin
- Ma Xing Shi Gan Tang麻杏石甘汤má xìng shí gān tāng Hot, red, congested skin whose eruption will not vent is what this formula treats. Heat has moved into the Lungs and closed the Qi, so the rash stays locked in while the person is feverish,… Actions: Clears Heat from the Lungs, Opens and descends the Lung Qi, Relieves breathlessness and coughHerbs: Ma Huang, Shi Gao, Xing Ren, Gan Cao
P
- Pi Pa Qing Fei Yin枇杷清肺饮pí pá qīng fèi yǐn Oily, congested facial skin with red papules and a greasy scalp is the skin picture here. The Lungs govern the skin, so Heat gathered there shows on the face and upper back as oiliness and… Actions: Clears Lung Heat, Drains Heat downward, Dries Dampness and reduces oilinessHerbs: Pi Pa Ye, Sang Bai Pi, Huang Lian, Huang Bo, and 2 more
- Ping Wei San平胃散píng wèi sǎn Greasy, congested or doughy skin that sits on a damp middle is what this powder is aimed at. The Dampness has congested the Spleen and Stomach, so the tissue looks heavy and dull while the… Actions: Dries Dampness and strengthens the Spleen, Moves Qi and relieves fullness, Calms the StomachHerbs: Cang Zhu, Hou Po, Chen Pi, Gan Cao
- Pu Ji Xiao Du Yin普济消毒饮pǔ jì xiāo dú yǐn Hot, red, swollen lesions on the head, face or neck are the presentation this formula was built for. Toxic Heat has gathered where the Yang channels rise, so the lesions are angry and… Actions: Clears Heat and resolves toxicity, Disperses swelling of the head and face, Cools the BloodHerbs: Huang Qin, Huang Lian, Niu Bang Zi, Lian Qiao, and 10 more
Q
- Qi Bao Mei Ran Dan七宝美髯丹qī bǎo měi rán dān Dry, thin skin that has lost tone and colour, with hair that has greyed or thinned early, is what this pill is used for. Liver and Kidney Essence and Blood have run low, and the renewal… Actions: Nourishes Liver and Kidney Essence, Nourishes Blood, Supports hair and skin colourHerbs: He Shou Wu, Tu Si Zi, Gou Qi Zi, Dang Gui, and 3 more
- Qi Ju Di Huang Wan杞菊地黄丸qǐ jú dì huáng wán Dry, thin facial skin with pigmentation or dry plaques, in an older, depleted person, is where this pill belongs. Liver and Kidney Yin has declined, so the skin loses moisture while the… Actions: Nourishes Liver and Kidney Yin, Brightens the eyes and clears the head, Moistens drynessHerbs: Shu Di Huang, Gou Qi Zi, Shan Zhu Yu, Shan Yao, and 4 more
- Qiang Huo Sheng Shi Tang羌活胜湿汤qiāng huó shèng shī tāng Congested, heavy, dusky skin that aches with the weather is what this light formula lifts. Wind-Dampness has settled in the upper body and surface after damp or cold exposure, so the head… Actions: Dispels Wind-Dampness, Relieves heavy headache and stiff neck, Unblocks the surface and channelsHerbs: Qiang Huo, Du Huo, Fang Feng, Gao Ben, and 3 more
- Qing Gong Tang清宫汤qīng gōng tāng A rash that appears in the middle of a severe febrile illness, with the mind clouded, is the only skin picture this formula belongs to. Shui Niu Jiao and Xuan Shen cool the Blood and reach… Actions: Clears Heat from the Pericardium, Cools the Blood, Nourishes Yin and protects fluidsHerbs: Shui Niu Jiao, Xuan Shen, Lian Qiao, Zhu Ye, and 2 more
- Qing Wei San清胃散qīng wèi sǎn Redness and greasy scaling around the mouth, nose and cheeks, with swollen or bleeding gums, is the facial picture this powder is for. Huang Lian clears Stomach Fire at its source, Sheng Ma… Actions: Clears Stomach Fire, Cools the Blood, Relieves inflammation of the face, mouth and gumsHerbs: Huang Lian, Sheng Ma, Sheng Di Huang, Mu Dan Pi, and 1 more
- Qing Wen Bai Du Yin清瘟败毒饮qīng wēn bài dú yǐn A spreading rash or purpuric spots with high fever, a deep crimson tongue and a restless mind is the severe picture this large formula is for. Shi Gao clears Qi-level Heat while Shui Niu… Actions: Clears Heat from the Qi level, Cools the Blood and resolves toxicity, Nourishes Yin and protects the fluidsHerbs: Shi Gao, Shui Niu Jiao, Sheng Di Huang, Huang Lian, and 10 more
- Qing Ying Tang清营汤qīng yíng tāng A faint rash of small red points with a fever worse at night, a dry mouth and broken sleep is what this decoction is for. Shui Niu Jiao and Sheng Di Huang cool the Blood and protect Yin,… Actions: Cools the nutritive level and clears Heat, Nourishes Yin and generates fluids, Resolves toxicityHerbs: Shui Niu Jiao, Sheng Di Huang, Xuan Shen, Mai Dong, and 5 more
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- San Ren Tang三仁汤sān rén tāng Skin that feels oily, clammy and only mildly warm, with small papules slow to clear and heaviness that worsens in humid weather, is the damp picture this decoction is for. Xing Ren opens… Actions: Transforms Dampness and clears mild Heat, Opens the Lungs and moves the middle, Drains Dampness through the urineHerbs: Xing Ren, Bai Dou Kou, Yi Yi Ren, Ban Xia, and 4 more
- Sang Xing Tang桑杏汤sāng xìng tāng Dry, itchy skin on the face that arrives with a dry cough and throat, in autumn or after a mild illness, is the surface picture this light decoction suits. Sang Ye clears the little Heat… Actions: Clears mild Heat from the Lungs, Moistens Lung dryness, Descends the Lung QiHerbs: Sang Ye, Xing Ren, Dan Dou Chi, Bei Sha Shen, and 3 more
- Sha Shen Mai Men Dong Tang沙参麦门冬汤shā shēn mài mén dōng tāng Skin left dry, inelastic or patchily discoloured after a fever has passed, with a dry mouth, throat and lingering dry cough, is the recovery picture this gentle formula is for. Bei Sha… Actions: Nourishes Stomach and Lung Yin, Generates fluids, Clears residual Heat lightlyHerbs: Bei Sha Shen, Mai Dong, Yu Zhu, Tian Hua Fen, and 3 more
- Shao Fu Zhu Yu Tang少腹逐瘀汤shào fù zhú yū tāng Dusky, dark or purplish skin that feels cold and sits over fixed, cold pain in the lower abdomen is the stasis picture this formula warms and moves. Pu Huang, Wu Ling Zhi, Yan Hu Suo and Mo… Actions: Moves Blood and dispels stasis, Warms the channels and dispels Cold, Relieves fixed lower-abdominal painHerbs: Dang Gui, Pu Huang, Wu Ling Zhi, Chuan Xiong, and 6 more
- Shen Ling Bai Zhu San参苓白术散shēn líng bái zhú sǎn The skin picture is pale, puffy and slow to heal, sometimes with an itch that comes with loose stools, rather than a red weeping eruption. Fu Ling leads as the herb that leaches Dampness… Actions: Tonifies Qi, Strengthens the Spleen, Drains DampnessHerbs: Ren Shen, Bai Zhu, Fu Ling, Shan Yao, and 6 more
- Shen Tong Zhu Yu Tang身痛逐瘀汤shēn tòng zhú yū tāng The skin is thickened, insensitive or tight over a chronically painful area, often dusky, where the change has built up slowly rather than as a fresh rash. Hong Hua leads a group of… Actions: Invigorates Blood and dispels stasis, Dispels Wind-Dampness, Unblocks the channels and collateralsHerbs: Tao Ren, Hong Hua, Chuan Xiong, Dang Gui, and 8 more
- Sheng Mai San生脉散shēng mài sǎn The skin reads as dry, thin and easily flushed, with sweating that continues after exertion and a surface that does not seem to hold its moisture. Ren Shen restores the spent Qi that drives… Actions: Tonifies Qi, Generates fluids, Nourishes YinHerbs: Ren Shen, Mai Dong, Wu Wei Zi
- Shi Pi Yin实脾饮shí pí yǐn The skin shows cold, pale, doughy swelling, most often of the face, ankles or limbs, that feels heavy rather than hot and red. Gan Jiang warms the middle as the leading herb, Zhi Fu Zi… Actions: Warms Yang and fortifies the Spleen, Moves Qi and drains Dampness, Reduces cold swellingHerbs: Zhi Fu Zi, Gan Jiang, Fu Ling, Bai Zhu, and 8 more
- Shi Quan Da Bu Tang十全大补汤shí quán dà bǔ tāng The skin is thin, dry, cold and shrunken, with poor tone, easy bruising and wounds that close very slowly, so the tissue lacks both substance and warmth. Shu Di Huang leads by nourishing… Actions: Tonifies Qi strongly, Nourishes Blood, Warms YangHerbs: Ren Shen, Shu Di Huang, Bai Zhu, Dang Gui, and 6 more
- Si Jun Zi Tang四君子汤sì jūn zǐ tāng The skin is pale, soft and slightly puffy, with poor tone and a tendency to hold fluid, and it heals slowly rather than erupting. Bai Zhu leads by strengthening the Spleen and drying… Actions: Tonifies Qi, Strengthens the Spleen and Stomach, Dries Dampness gentlyHerbs: Ren Shen, Bai Zhu, Fu Ling, Gan Cao
- Si Miao San四妙散sì miào sǎn The skin is hot, red, itchy and weeping, settling low on the feet, ankles and lower legs, worse in heat and humidity. Huang Bo leads by clearing Heat and drying Dampness in the lower half,… Actions: Clears Heat and dries Dampness, Clears Damp-Heat from the lower body, Strengthens the lower limbsHerbs: Huang Bo, Cang Zhu, Yi Yi Ren, Niu Xi
- Si Miao Yong An Tang四妙勇安汤sì miào yǒng ān tāng The skin is dusky or purple, hot and swollen over an exquisitely painful toe or limb, and ulceration may threaten, so the tissue is damaged faster than it repairs. Jin Yin Hua and Xuan Shen… Actions: Clears Heat and resolves toxicity, Nourishes and moves Blood, Cools the BloodHerbs: Jin Yin Hua, Xuan Shen, Dang Gui, Gan Cao
- Si Ni Jia Ren Shen Tang四逆加人参汤sì nì jiā rén shēn tāng Skin that stays cold, dusky or blue-tinged and slow to recover its colour after rewarming is the picture here, typically chilblain or frostbite tissue in a deeply depleted person. Zhi Fu Zi… Actions: Restores Yang and rescues collapse, Warms the interior and dispels Cold, Restores Qi and rescues fluidsHerbs: Zhi Fu Zi, Gan Jiang, Ren Shen, Gan Cao
- Si Wu Tang四物汤sì wù tāng Skin that is pale, dry and thin, with a dull complexion, slow healing and numbness, is the picture this formula is built for. Shu Di Huang and Bai Shao nourish the Blood and hold it in the… Actions: Nourishes and builds Blood, Regulates the Blood, Gentle movement without stagnationHerbs: Shu Di Huang, Dang Gui, Bai Shao, Chuan Xiong
- Si Wu Xiao Feng Tang四物消风汤sì wù xiāo fēng tāng Chronic dry itchy skin that scales and thickens, with itch worse at night or in dry weather, is the picture this formula addresses. Dang Gui, Sheng Di Huang, Chi Shao and Chuan Xiong… Actions: Nourishes and moves Blood, Dispels Wind and stops itching, Clears HeatHerbs: Sheng Di Huang, Dang Gui, Jing Jie, Fang Feng, and 8 more
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- Tao Hong Si Wu Tang桃红四物汤táo hóng sì wù tāng Dusky, discoloured skin on a depleted base is the picture: dark patches and pigmentation, bruises that linger, and dry skin with poor tone that heals slowly. Shu Di Huang, Dang Gui, Bai… Actions: Nourishes Blood, Invigorates Blood and disperses stasis, Regulates menstruationHerbs: Shu Di Huang, Dang Gui, Bai Shao, Chuan Xiong, and 2 more
- Tiao Wei Cheng Qi Tang调胃承气汤tiáo wèi chéng qì tāng Facial flushing and heat eruptions of the rosacea type, where the bowel is sluggish, are what this formula addresses on the skin. Da Huang clears the Heat and moves the bowel, Mang Xiao… Actions: Clears Heat from the Stomach and bowel, Gently purges and moves the stool, Protects the StomachHerbs: Da Huang, Mang Xiao, Gan Cao
- Tong Qiao Huo Xue Tang通窍活血汤tōng qiào huó xuè tāng Skin that has lost its normal colour or sensation through stasis, with a dusky or purple cast to the face and dark patches, is the picture here. She Xiang is used in a tiny dose to open the… Actions: Invigorates Blood and dispels stasis, Opens the orifices and reaches the head, Improves facial circulation and colourHerbs: She Xiang, Tao Ren, Hong Hua, Chi Shao, and 4 more
- Tong Ru Dan通乳丹tōng rǔ dān Dry, cracked or slow-healing breast skin in a pale, tired mother, with soft rather than engorged breasts and no redness or heat, is the picture. Dang Gui in a large dose nourishes the Blood… Actions: Tonifies Qi and Blood, Promotes lactation, Guides the action to the breastsHerbs: Ren Shen, Huang Qi, Dang Gui, Mai Dong, and 2 more
- Tou Nong San透脓散tòu nóng sǎn A firm, painful, indurated swelling with pus inside that will not come to a head or discharge, in a pale and tired person, is the picture here. Huang Qi and Dang Gui tonify the Qi and Blood… Actions: Expels pus and promotes discharge, Tonifies Qi and nourishes Blood, Opens the lesion and relieves swellingHerbs: Huang Qi, Dang Gui, Chuan Xiong, Chuan Shan Jia, and 1 more
- Tuo Li Xiao Du San托里消毒散tuō lǐ xiāo dú sǎn Sores stay open because the person has little to heal with: the lesion drains thin fluid, the surrounding skin is pale, and it closes then breaks down again. Ren Shen and Huang Qi supply… Actions: Tonifies Qi and nourishes Blood, Resolves toxicity, Expels pus and promotes healingHerbs: Huang Qi, Ren Shen, Dang Gui, Chuan Xiong, and 8 more
W
- Wei Ling Tang胃苓汤wèi líng tāng The skin is puffy, swollen or weeping, with fluid held in the tissue and the surface heavy. Ze Xie, Fu Ling and Zhu Ling drain the fluid out through the urine, Cang Zhu, Hou Po and Chen Pi… Actions: Dries Dampness and strengthens the Spleen, Promotes urination and drains fluid, Moves Qi and relieves fullnessHerbs: Cang Zhu, Ze Xie, Hou Po, Fu Ling, and 5 more
- Wu Tou Tang乌头汤wū tóu tāng The skin is cold, pale, firm and tight, with fixed pain that is worse in cold weather and eased by warmth. Zhi Chuan Wu warms and unblocks the channels deeply, Ma Huang releases the surface… Actions: Warms the channels and dispels Cold, Relieves severe cold painful obstruction, Releases the surfaceHerbs: Zhi Chuan Wu, Ma Huang, Huang Qi, Bai Shao, and 1 more
- Wu Wei Xiao Du Yin五味消毒饮wǔ wèi xiāo dú yǐn The skin is hot, red, swollen and painful, with a boil, carbuncle or infected patch that may discharge pus, often with fever and thirst. All five herbs are cold and clear Heat and resolve… Actions: Clears Heat and resolves toxicity, Cools the Blood, Disperses swelling and reduces abscessesHerbs: Jin Yin Hua, Ye Ju Hua, Pu Gong Ying, Zi Hua Di Ding, and 1 more
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- Xian Fang Huo Ming Yin仙方活命饮xiān fāng huó mìng yǐn The lesion is hot, red and swollen, still hard and not yet come to a head, with the skin tight over it and the outcome unsettled. Jin Yin Hua, Tian Hua Fen, Zhe Bei Mu and Zao Jiao Ci clear… Actions: Clears Heat and resolves toxicity, Disperses swelling and reduces abscess, Moves Blood and breaks congestionHerbs: Jin Yin Hua, Dang Gui, Chi Shao, Ru Xiang, and 8 more
- Xiang Sha Liu Jun Zi Tang香砂六君子汤xiāng shā liù jūn zǐ tāng The skin is oily and congested rather than inflamed, on a digestion that feels full, belches and passes loose stools, with a greasy tongue coat. Ren Shen, Bai Zhu, Fu Ling and Gan Cao… Actions: Tonifies Spleen Qi, Transforms Phlegm and dries Dampness, Moves Qi and relieves distensionHerbs: Ren Shen, Bai Zhu, Fu Ling, Ban Xia, and 4 more
- Xiao Feng San消风散xiāo fēng sǎn The skin is itchy, red and weeping; the itch moves and the lesions ooze or crust, worse with heat and stress. Jing Jie, Fang Feng, Niu Bang Zi and Chan Tui disperse the Wind that drives the… Actions: Dispels Wind and stops itching, Clears Heat, Drains DampnessHerbs: Jing Jie, Fang Feng, Niu Bang Zi, Chan Tui, and 9 more
- Xiao Huo Luo Dan小活络丹xiǎo huó luò dān The skin and limbs are numb, cold and stiff, with fixed pain worse in cold weather and tissue that may thicken or lose feeling. Zhi Chuan Wu and Zhi Cao Wu, prepared aconites, warm and open… Actions: Warms the channels and dispels Cold-Dampness, Transforms Phlegm and unblocks the collaterals, Moves Blood and relieves painHerbs: Zhi Chuan Wu, Zhi Cao Wu, Tian Nan Xing, Di Long, and 2 more
- Xiao Yao San逍遥散xiāo yáo sǎn The skin flares when life tightens: dull or uneven tone, plaques that redden after frustration, and pigmentation that deepens through stressful periods, often with bloating or irregular… Actions: Courses the Liver and resolves constraint, Nourishes the Blood, Strengthens the SpleenHerbs: Chai Hu, Dang Gui, Bai Shao, Bai Zhu, and 4 more
- Xie Huang San泻黄散xiè huáng sǎn Redness and cracking around the mouth, lips and nose, sometimes with sore lips and a yellow tongue coat, is the skin picture. Shi Gao clears the Heat while protecting fluids, Zhi Zi drains… Actions: Drains Spleen and Stomach Heat, Clears Heat from the face and mouth, Disperses Heat outwardHerbs: Shi Gao, Zhi Zi, Fang Feng, Huo Xiang, and 1 more
- Xuan Bi Tang宣痹汤xuān bì tāng The skin over a hot, swollen joint is red, shiny or tight, the limb feels heavy, and the fingers or toes may burn. Fang Ji and Yi Yi Ren drain Dampness from the channels, Hua Shi and Chi… Actions: Clears Heat and drains Dampness, Unblocks the channels and relieves obstruction, Disperses swelling and relieves painHerbs: Fang Ji, Xing Ren, Yi Yi Ren, Hua Shi, and 5 more
- Xue Fu Zhu Yu Tang血府逐瘀汤xuè fǔ zhú yū tāng The skin shows purplish, firm, tender patches that heal slowly, with bruises that linger longer than they should. Tao Ren, Hong Hua, Chi Shao, Chuan Xiong and Niu Xi break the settled… Actions: Invigorates Blood and dispels stasis, Moves Qi and alleviates pain, Opens the chest and disperses stagnationHerbs: Tao Ren, Hong Hua, Chi Shao, Chuan Xiong, and 7 more
Y
- Yang Xue Ding Feng Tang养血定风汤yǎng xuè dìng fēng tāng The skin is dry, thin and itchy in a way that outlasts creams, worse at night and often thickened from scratching. Dang Gui, He Shou Wu, Tian Men Dong and Mai Dong rebuild the Blood and Yin… Actions: Nourishes Blood and Yin, Settles internal Wind, Relieves chronic itchHerbs: Dang Gui, He Shou Wu, Tian Men Dong, Mai Dong, and 6 more
- Yang Yin Qing Fei Tang养阴清肺汤yǎng yīn qīng fèi tāng The skin has turned dry, thin and inelastic, papery over the cheeks and hands, as the throat and mouth also dry. Sheng Di Huang and Mai Dong nourish the Yin that moistens the tissue, Xuan… Actions: Nourishes Yin, Clears mild Heat from the Lungs, Moistens the throat and skinHerbs: Sheng Di Huang, Xuan Shen, Mai Dong, Bai Shao, and 4 more
- Yi Guan Jian一贯煎yī guàn jiān The skin is dry and sensitive, flaring into rash when stress rises, often with a dry mouth and throat and a red thin tongue. Sheng Di Huang, Bei Sha Shen, Mai Dong and Gou Qi Zi restore the… Actions: Nourishes Liver Yin, Nourishes Blood and fluids, Gently frees the Liver QiHerbs: Sheng Di Huang, Dang Gui, Gou Qi Zi, Bei Sha Shen, and 2 more
- Yi Wei Tang益胃汤yì wèi tāng The skin has lost its moisture after a fever, feeling dry and inelastic, with a dry mouth and throat that drinking does not relieve. Sheng Di Huang, Mai Dong, Bei Sha Shen and Yu Zhu… Actions: Nourishes Stomach Yin, Generates fluids, Moistens dryness of the mouth, throat and skinHerbs: Sheng Di Huang, Mai Dong, Bei Sha Shen, Yu Zhu, and 1 more
- Yi Yi Ren Tang薏苡仁汤yì yǐ rén tāng Skin that looks puffy and waterlogged, with swollen joints aching more in damp weather, is what this formula drains. Dampness predominates, so fluid sits in the tissue, the surface feels… Actions: Dispels Wind-Cold-Dampness, Drains Dampness and reduces swelling, Moves Blood and relieves painHerbs: Yi Yi Ren, Qiang Huo, Du Huo, Fang Feng, and 9 more
- Yin Chen Hao Tang茵陈蒿汤yīn chén hāo tāng Skin that is greasy and inflamed, with a yellow greasy tongue coat, is what this formula clears, as in acne, seborrhoeic patches and mottled discolouration worsened by alcohol and fried… Actions: Clears Heat and drains Dampness, Relieves Damp-Heat with yellowing, Drains downward through the bowel and urineHerbs: Yin Chen, Zhi Zi, Da Huang
- Yin Qiao San银翘散yín qiào sǎn Skin that erupts in the first day or two of a hot illness, as an early rash or hives with a sore throat and fever, is what this powder is for. Wind-Heat is still at the surface, so the… Actions: Disperses Wind-Heat and releases the exterior, Clears Heat and resolves toxicity, Benefits the throatHerbs: Jin Yin Hua, Lian Qiao, Bo He, Niu Bang Zi, and 6 more
- You Gui Wan右归丸yòu guī wán Cold, pale, thin skin with dusky extremities and slow healing is the picture this warming pill addresses. Kidney Yang and Essence are both low, so the body cannot warm the surface or renew… Actions: Warms Kidney Yang, Tonifies the Essence, Nourishes BloodHerbs: Zhi Fu Zi, Rou Gui, Lu Jiao Jiao, Shu Di Huang, and 6 more
- You Gui Yin右归饮yòu guī yǐn Cold, pale skin that feels firm or tight with poor circulation is what this lighter decoction warms. Yang and Essence are depleted, so the tissue is poorly supplied, cold and slow to stay… Actions: Warms Kidney Yang, Fills the Essence, Strengthens the lower backHerbs: Shu Di Huang, Zhi Fu Zi, Rou Gui, Shan Yao, and 4 more
- Yu Nu Jian玉女煎yù nǚ jiān Skin that flushes or reddens across the face, with dryness and heat, is what this formula cools from above while it rebuilds below. Stomach Heat is driving the flushing, the gum soreness… Actions: Clears Stomach Heat, Nourishes Kidney Yin, Benefits the gums and mouthHerbs: Shi Gao, Shu Di Huang, Zhi Mu, Mai Dong, and 1 more
- Yu Ping Feng San玉屏风散yù píng fēng sǎn Skin that reacts to wind and drafts, breaks out in recurrent hives, or sweats without exertion is what this powder steadies. The surface is weak and leaky rather than under attack, so… Actions: Tonifies Qi, Consolidates the exterior, Stops spontaneous sweatingHerbs: Huang Qi, Bai Zhu, Fang Feng
Z
- Zeng Ye Tang增液汤zēng yè tāng Skin that is thin, dry, shrunken and has lost elasticity is what this three-herb formula rehydrates from within. The fluids are deeply depleted rather than the surface simply dry, so the… Actions: Nourishes Yin and generates fluids, Moistens the intestines, Softens dryness of the skin and mouthHerbs: Xuan Shen, Sheng Di Huang, Mai Dong
- Zhen Wu Tang真武汤zhēn wǔ tāng Skin that is cold, puffy and weeping is what this warming formula treats, because it moves fluid collected under a Yang deficiency. The picture is waterlogged: swollen tissue, cold limbs,… Actions: Warms Yang and dispels Cold, Drains fluid and reduces oedema, Strengthens the Spleen and KidneyHerbs: Zhi Fu Zi, Fu Ling, Bai Zhu, Sheng Jiang, and 1 more
- Zhi Bai Di Huang Wan知柏地黄丸zhī bǎi dì huáng wán Skin that is dry, warm to the touch, burning or flushing is what this pill treats, because it refills the deep Yin whose absence lets Heat rise to the surface. The pattern is emptiness with… Actions: Nourishes Yin, Clears deficiency Heat, Nourishes Kidney YinHerbs: Shu Di Huang, Shan Zhu Yu, Shan Yao, Mu Dan Pi, and 4 more
- Zhi Dai Fang止带方zhǐ dài fāng Skin that is hot, itchy and damp in the genital area or skin folds is what this formula clears, because it drains Damp-Heat from the lower body in the urine. The pattern is hot and turbid:… Actions: Bitter clears Heat, bland drains Dampness., Stops abnormal discharge, Relieves itching and dampness in the lower bodyHerbs: Yin Chen, Huang Bo, Zhi Zi, Fu Ling, and 6 more
- Zuo Gui Wan左归丸zuǒ guī wán Skin that has thinned, dried and lost tone, or heals slowly, is what this pill rebuilds, because it fills the deep Yin and Essence that supply moisture and renewal. The picture is advanced… Actions: Nourishes Kidney Yin strongly, Fills the Essence and Marrow, Moistens deep drynessHerbs: Shu Di Huang, Gui Ban, Lu Jiao Jiao, Gou Qi Zi, and 4 more
- Zuo Gui Yin左归饮zuǒ guī yǐn Thin, dry, itchy skin in an older person is what this gentle decoction moistens, because it refills the Yin and Essence that keep tissue supple. The pattern is deep dryness without a rash:… Actions: Nourishes Kidney and Liver Yin, Fills the Essence, Moistens drynessHerbs: Shu Di Huang, Shan Zhu Yu, Gou Qi Zi, Shan Yao, and 2 more