Actions
- Harmonizes the Shao-Yang
- Clears heat
- Purges accumulation
Indications
- Alternating fever and chills
- Fullness or oppression in the chest and hypochondrium
- Bitter taste in the mouth
- Vomiting
- Nausea
- Abdominal pain
- Constipation or diarrhea
- Low appetite
Ingredients
8 substances in Da Chai Hu Tang — each links to its full herb monograph.
Bai Shao9 gTonify Blood
Ban Xia24 gWarm Herbs that Transform Phlegm-Cold
Chai Hu24 gCool, Spicy Herbs that Release the Exterior
Da Huang6 gPurgatives
Da Zao12 piecesTonify Qi
Huang Qin9 gClear Heat and Dry Dampness
Sheng Jiang15 gWarm, Spicy Herbs that Release the Exterior
Zhi Shi6-9 gRegulate the QiPreparation & dosage
Decoction. In modern preparation, the dosage of Chai Hu and Ban Xia is often reduced to 12-15 Grams. Sheng Jiang is often reduced to 6-9 Grams, and Da Zao to 4 Pieces.
Safety — read before use
Use cautiously in patients with a weak constitution.
Originally Appeared In:
- On Cold Damage (Shang Han Lun)
Sources & References
Compiled and edited by Thomas Dehli, Founder & Editor, Sacred Lotus
The information here is referenced from numerous sources — teachers, practitioners, class notes from Five Branches University, the books below, and the published research literature, with citations given as resolvable PubMed identifiers. Where sources disagree, I have flagged the discrepancies directly. If facts couldn't be verified, I have left them out. How we source our content.
Reference information for students and practitioners — not medical advice. Consult a qualified practitioner. Terms of use.
Chinese Formulas Books & References
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- https://amzn.to/4gMROyv
- https://amzn.to/4h7msSK



