Ban Xia Xie Xin Tang  半夏瀉心湯
Pinellia Drain the Epigastrium Decoction


Tradition:


TCM

Source / Author:


Discusion of Cold-induced Disorders (Shang Han Lun)

Herb Name

Ban Xia (Pinellia)
Gan Jiang (Ginger)
Huang Qin (Scutellaria)
Huang Lian (Coptis)
Ren Shen (Ginseng)
Da Zao (Jujube)
Zhi Gan Cao (Licorice) fried

Latin


Pinellia ternata
Zingiberis officinalis
Scutellaria baicalensis
Coptis chinensis
Panax ginseng
Zizyphus jujuba
Glycyrrhiza uralensis

Amount




9 grams ea.
3 grams
9 grams
4–6 pieces
6 grams

Preparation:


Prepare a standard decoction.
Licorice was originally given in 9 gram doses, but this is usually reduced to 6 grams today. Jujube was originally used in a dose of 12 pieces, which again is reduced today.

Function:


Harmonizes the Stomach, Guides Qi downards, disperses obstructed Qi

Use:


Focal distention of the Epigastrium, fullness, diarrhea with borborygmus, greasy tongue caoting and a wiry rapid pulse.
1. Acute Gastroenteritis
2. Chronic Gastritis
3. Chronic Hepatitis
4. Chronic Pancreatitis
5. Chronic Cholecystitis
6. Gastric Ulcers
7. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease
8. Irritable Bowel Syndrome
9. Ulcerative Colitis
10. Cirrhosis (early stage)
11. Gastric Cancer
12. Esophageal Cancer

Dose:


The above decoction is divided into 3 equal doses to be taken over the course of a day.

Cautions:


None noted

Modifications:


1. Qi stagnation in the Intestines, add Costus
2. Abdominal pain and cramping, add Paeonia Bai Shao and Citrus Chen Pi
3. Unless the Qi is very weak, Codonopsis Dang Shen can replace Ginseng.

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