Herb Formulas Notebook

Zuo Jin Wan

Left Metal Pill


Author: Zhu Dan-Xi, 朱丹溪

Year: 1732

Source: Essential Teachings of Dan-Xi (Dan Xi Xin Fa, 丹溪心法)


Category: Formulas that Clear Heat

Pattern: Liver and Stomach disharmony due to Heat in the Liver

Key Symptoms: Pain in the flanks, indeterminate gnawing hunger, epigastric focal distention, vomiting, acid reflux, belching, bitter taste in the mouth

Tongue: Red with yellow coating
Pulse: Wiry and rapid


Ingredients

Huang Lian 15-18g
Wu Zhu Yu 2-3g


Preparation: Originally prepared as pills by grinding into a powder and mixing with water, taken in 2-3g doses 2-3 times per day. Can be taken as a decoction but due to the taste of both herbs it may be easier to grind and encapsulate.


Actions: Clears Liver Heat, directs rebellious Qi downwards, stops vomiting

Contraindications: Acid reflux due to Stomach deficient and Cold



Notes:
By adding Bai Shao and having all ingredients in equal ratio it becomes Wu Ji Wan (Fifth and Sixth Heavenly Stem Pill) which focuses the effects on Liver/Spleen disharmony for similar presentations which include diarrhoea, including hot dysentery disorders.



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These pages are intended to assist clinicians and are not intended for self-diagnosis or treatment for which a qualified professional should be consulted.