Da Xian Xiong Tang  大陷胸汤
Major Sinking into the Chest Decoction
Picture

Tradition:


TCM

Source / Author:


Discussion of Cold Induced Disorders (Shang Han Lun) C.220

Herb Name

Da Huang (Rhubarb)
Mang Xiao
(Mirabilite)
Gan Sui (Euphorbia)

Latin


Rheum palmatum
Mirabilitum

Euphorbia kansui

Amount


12–18 grams
9 grams

1 gram

Preparation:


Decoct Rhubarb in 36 cups of water down to 2 cups, then strain and dissolve in the Mirabilitum Mang Xiao. Add the powdered Euphorbia Gan Sui to one cup of the decoction before taking.

Function:


Purges Heat and Water accumulation

Use:


Accumulation of Heat and Water in the chest and diaphragm with Constipation, Irritability, Restlessness, Thirst, fullness and pain in the Epigastrium, dry tongue and a deep, forceful pulse.
1. Acute Intestinal Obstruction
2. Acute Cholecystitis
3. Acute Pancreatitis (has been clinically effective in trials)
4. Acute Peritonitis

Dose:


Take the above as a dose while warm

Cautions:


1. Only take until a bowel movement is produced (usually 1–2 doses). Do not continue to take.
2. Not used during pregnancy
3. Not used in weak patients
4. Not used for mild or occasional Constipation.


Modifications:


1. Acute Pancreatitis, add Corydalis Yan Hu Suo, Scutellaria Huang Qin

Similar Formulas:


Da Xian Xiong Wan is a similar formula, used in Honey-Pill form. It omits Mirabilite, but adds Lepidium / Descurainia Ting Li Zi and Bitter Almond kernel (Ku Xing Ren). It is more gentle and is used if there is no abdominal pain.

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