Author: eraneven

Liu Duzhou on Water Patterns [水证论] – Part 3

On By eranevenIn Liú Dùzhōu (刘渡舟), Shāng Hán Lùn (伤寒论), Translations & Writings (译著与文章)

二、皮水

皮水是由于脾虚，不能运化水湿，水湿阻塞中焦，故腹中胀满；肺气虚则不能通调三焦，以致水湿停留，故下肢踝部浮肿，按之没指，为水性润下之徵。父言皮水之脉浮与风水同。但无恶风身痛等证为异。

2. Skin Water

Skin water is caused by spleen deficiency, which is unable to transport and transform water dampness. The blocked water dampness obstructs the middle burner, resulting in abdominal distension. If lung qi is deficient it is unable to free and regulate the triple burner, causing water dampness to accumulate. Consequently, there is swelling in the ankles and the lower limbs, with the characteristic of indentation when pressed, indicating a manifestation of dampness with a watery nature. The older generations say that the pulse of skin water is floating and shares similarities with wind-dampness, but it differs in the absence of symptoms such as aversion to wind and body pain.

皮水治法：皮水脉浮为水在表，因势利导而发其汗，可用越婵加术汤。如果皮水为病，四肢肿；水气在皮肤中，四肢聂聂动者，可用防已茯苓汤主之（防己三两，黄芪三两，桂枝三两，茯苓六两，甘草二两。以水六升，煮取二升，分温三服）。

Skin Water Treatment: In skin water, the pulse is floating, indicating that there is water in the surface, and in order to help it along its course, one should promote sweating. This can be achieved with the use of Yuèbì Jiā Zhú Tāng (越婵加术汤).  In skin water disease, there is swelling in the limbs, and slight movements of the limbs, which indicates that water qi is in the skin, and one can use Fángjǐ Fúlíng Tāng (防已茯苓汤), [Fángjǐ 3 liang, Huángqí 3 liang, Guìzhī 3 liang, Fúlíng 6 liang, Gāncǎo 2 liang. Boil in six sheng of water, reduce to two sheng, and take warm in three doses].

尤怡认为“皮中水气，浸淫四末，而壅遏卫气，气水相逐，则四肢聂聂动也。防己，茯苓善驱水气，桂枝得茯苓，则不发表而反行水，且合黄芪、甘草助表中之气，以行防己、茯苓之力也”。

According to Yóuyí, “[When there is] water qi in the skin, it seeps and spreads to the four limbs, and congests and obstructs the defense qi, leading to the mutual chasing of qi and water, [and thus] the limbs exhibit slight movements. Fángjǐ and Fúlíng are good for expelling water qi. Guì Zhī, enhances the effect of Fúlíng, and thus avoids effusing the surface but instead moves water. Moreover, the combination of Huángqí and Gāncǎo assists the qi in the surface to support the actions of Fángjǐ and Fúlíng.”

三、正水

正水是由于脾肾阳虚，不能气化以蒸发水湿之邪，以致水停于里而不行，故腹满而脉沉迟。水多则外溢而身体浮肿；水气上迫于肺因而作喘；若水凌于心阳，则身重短气不得卧；火不温肾，水寒下控其人则阴肿而烦躁不安；若水邪侵肝，气机被阻，故胁下与腹作痛。肝之疏泄功能乖戾，其气时而上冲，时而下降，水液随气上升，则时时津液微生； 水液随肝气下降，则小便续通；肝病犯脾，不能运化水湿，所以腹部胀大；如果水邪侵脾，脾失转输之常，不能升清降浊，水湿聚中，流于四肢，故腹胀大，四肢苦重难于活动。

3. Regular Water 

Regular water is due to the deficiency of spleen and kidney yang, which leads to the inability of qi transformation to evaporate pathogenic water dampness, to the extent where water settles internally and does not move, resulting in abdominal fullness and a deep-slow pulse. Copious water overflows into the surface resulting in generalized body swelling; Water qi rises upwards and distresses the lungs causing panting; If water intimidates the heart yang, it will result in generalized heaviness, shortness of breath, and an inability to sleep. [If] fire fails to warm the kidneys, water cold controls the lower [body] resulting in genital swelling as well as vexation, agitation, and disquietude; If pathogenic water invades the liver, the qi mechanism becomes obstructed, resulting in sub-costal and abdominal pain.  

肝之疏泄功能乖戾，其气时而上冲，时而下降，水液随气上升，则时时津液微生； 水液随肝气下降，则小便续通；肝病犯脾，不能运化水湿，所以腹部胀大；如果水邪侵脾，脾失转输之常，不能升清降浊，水湿聚中，流于四肢，故腹胀大，四肢苦重难于活动。

[If] the liver’s free coursing function is disrupted, the qi will occasionally surge upwards as well as occasionally descend. Fluids will follow the qi and ascend, resulting in the intermittent engendering of fluids. Fluids will [also] follow liver qi and descend, resulting in continuous and free urination.  [When] the liver invades the spleen, [the spleen] will be unable to move and transform water damp, resulting in abdominal distention and enlargement. If pathogenic water invades the spleen, the spleen [function] of transformation will be abnormal, and it will be unable to upbear the clear and downbear the turbid. Water damp will accumulate in the centre, flow into the four limbs and lead to abdominal distention and enlargement, and the four limbs will suffer from heaviness and have difficulty moving. 

脾为水困，津液不生，气亦不足，故见口渴、少气。脾不散精于肺，肺不通调水道以行决渎，故小便难；如果水寒之邪盛于下，肾阳衰弱，不能温化水气，水气增多，故腹大，脐肿，腰痛，不得溺也。肾阳不温阳气不充，故阴下湿如牛鼻上汗，其足逆冷；阳气不华于上，其面反瘦。

The spleen, when encumbered by water, fails to generate bodily fluids, resulting in insufficient qi, which manifests with thirst and shortness of breath. [When] the spleen fails to distribute essence to the lungs, the lungs are unable to regulate the water ways in order to move and keep the sluices clear, which results in difficult urination. If pathogenic cold water is exuberant in the lower [body], kidney yang [becomes] depleted and is unable to warm and transform water qi. Water qi will increase, resulting in an enlarged abdomen, swelling of the umbilicus, lumbar pain, and an inability to urinate. [When] kidney yang fails to warm and yang qi is insufficient, this leads to the descent of damp with [conditions] such as ox’s nose, upper sweating and counterflow cold. [When] yang qi fails to [supply] luster to the upper, the face becomes thin. 

五脏水邪，因其生理各异，故病理与证候而不相同。然而五脏水邪病，其中肺、脾、肾三脏阳气之虚衰，不能行气化津而使水邪内停则是它们的共性。因此，在治疗申总以通阳化气，消阴利水之法实为上策。

The pathologies of pathogenic water in the five viscera differ due to their distinct physiological functions, resulting in varying patterns and symptoms. However, a commonality among diseases involving pathogenic water in the lungs, spleen, and kidneys is the deficiency and debilitation of yang qi in these organs. This deficiency hinders the proper movement of qi and transformation of fluids, which leads to the internal collection of water. Therefore, in the treatment of these conditions, prioritizing methods that free yang, transform qi, disperse yin, and disinhibit water are considered the optimal strategies.

后世医家，将水分为阴、阳两类，阳水为热为实，治以驱邪为主。如水气逼肺而作喘，通调不利而小便短涩，治用苏葶丸（苏子、葶苈子）或沉香琥珀丸（苦葶苈子、郁李仁、防己、沉香、陈皮、琥珀、杏仁、苏子、赤茯苓、泽泻、麝香）。若通身水肿，二便不利，脉来浮滑，其人体力不衰者，可用疏凿饮子，外散内利（椒目、赤小豆、槟榔、商陆、木通、羌活、秦艽、大腹皮、茯苓皮、泽泻）；如果形气稍差，或年老体弱之人，则用外散内利两解之法，如茯苓导水汤最为理想（泽泻、茯苓、桑皮、木香、木瓜、砂仁、陈皮、白术、苏叶、大腹皮、麦冬、槟榔）。

Later generations of medical practitioners, categorized water into yin and yang. Yang water is considered hot and excess, and the primary focus in treatment is to expel pathogenic factors. For instance, if water and qi oppress the lungs causing wheezing or inhibit smooth flow leading to short and hesitant urination, treatments such as Sūtíng Wán (zi su zi and ting li zi) or Chénxiāng Hǔpò Wán (ku ting li zi, yu li ren, fang ji, chen xiang, chen pi, hu po, xing ren, su zi, chi fu ling, ze xie, and she xiang) are recommended. If there is generalized edema, inhibited urination and bowel movements, with a floating and slippery pulse, and the patient is strong, then Shūzáo Yǐnzǐ, a method that scatters the exterior and disinhibits the interior (containing jiao mu, chi xiao dou, bing lang, shang lu, mu tong, qiang huo, qin jiao, da fu pi, fu ling pi, ze xie) may be used. If the person’s constitution is slightly weak or they are elderly and frail, a combination of a surface scattering and internal disinhibition method may be used to resolve [the condition]. The ideal choice in such cases is Fúlíng Dǎoshuǐ Tāng (ze xie, fu ling, sang pi, mu xiang, mu gua, sha ren, chen pi, bai zhu, su ye, da fu pi, mai dong, bing lang).

阴水为寒为虚，如果大便溏薄，畏寒气怯、脉软肢冷者，宜用温补之法，如补中益气汤（人参、黄芪、炙甘草、白术、陈皮、升麻、柴胡，当归、生姜、大枣）。或用实脾饮、（白术、茯苓、炙草，木香，木瓜、附子、槟榔、草果、干姜）：如果脉沉面黧，小便不利心悸、头眩、背恶寒者，可用真武汤（附子、白本、生姜、白芍、茯苓）。如果尺脉沉迟，或见细小，小便不利，而又腰酸脚弱者，可用金匮肾气丸缓治为上。

Yin water is considered cold and deficient. If there are thin sloppy stools, a fear of  cold, qi timidity, and a soft pulse with cold limbs, a warming and supplementing method is appropriate. For instance, Bǔzhōng Yìqì Tāng (ren shen, huang qi, zhi gan cao, bai zhu, chen pi, sheng ma, chai hu, dang gui, sheng jiang, da zao) can be used. Alternatively, Shípí Yǐn (bai zhu, fu ling, zhi [gan] cao, mu xiang, mu gua, fu zi, bing lang, cao guo, gan jiang) may be used. If the pulse is deep, complexion yellowish-black, [and there is] inhibited urination, palpitations, dizziness, and a cold back, Zhēnwǔ Tāng (fu zi, bai shao, sheng jiang, bai shao, fu ling) is recommended. If the chǐ pulse is deep and slow, or thin and small, with inhibited urination, accompanied by lower back pain and weak legs, Jīnguì Shènqì Wán is valued above else. 

清人吳谦有外治之法，其中的“贴脐琥珀丹”颇具巧思，用之多验（巴豆去油12.克，轻粉6克，硫黄 3克，研匀成饼。先用新棉一片布脐上，内饼，外用帛缚，时许自然泻下恶水，待下三五次后，去掉药饼，以粥补住。日久形羸，隔一日取一次，一饼可救三五人）。

The Qing Dynasty physician, Wúqiān had [several] external treatment methods. Among them, his “Tiēqí Hǔpò Dān” was particularly ingenious, and its use was highly effective. To prepare, take 12 grams of Bādòu (with oil removed), 6 grams of Qīngfěn, and 3 grams of Liúhuáng. Grind evenly and form into cakes. First, a fresh piece of cotton is placed over the navel, the cake placed inside, and secured with silk. Over some time, malign water will naturally drain. After three to five drainages, remove the medicinal cake and replace it with a gruel dressing. Over time, the appearance will fade, and the treatment is administered once every other day. One cake can benefit three to five individuals.

吴谦认为肿胀之病，“属虚寒者，自宜投诸温补之药，而用之俱无效验者，虚中必有实邪也。欲投诸攻下之药而又难堪，然不攻之终无法也。须行九补一攻之法，是用补养之药九日，俟其有可攻之机，而一日用泻下之药攻之。然攻药亦须初起少少与之，不胜病渐加之，必审其药与元气相当，逐邪而不伤正始为法也。其后或补七日、攻一日；补五日、攻一日；补三日、攻一日。缓缓求之，以愈为度”。

Wúqiān believed that for swelling diseases, if they are attributed to deficiency and cold, the use of warm-supplementing medicinals alone may prove ineffective. He theorized that if there is no improvement with the sole use of supplementing medicinals, there must be excess pathogens within deficiency.  While wanting to resort to offensive purgative [medicinals] is challenging, avoiding their use altogether is also not a feasible solution. He proposed a method of [using] supplementation for nine days followed by one purging day. This involves administering supplementing medicinals for nine days, and afterwards attacking the mechanism, by using draining medicinals for one day. The purgative medicinals should be administered gradually, starting with a small amount and increasing it as the disease progresses. It is essential to ensure that the medicine matches the [patients] original qi, expelling the pathogenic factor without damaging the right [qi]. Afterwards [one] may possibly supplement for seven days, attack for one; supplement for five days, attack for one; and supplement for three days, attack for one. Gradually seek it out, using the cure [as] the measure.  

余在临床，治此病颇能体会吴氏用心之苦，因而勤求博采，对肿胀大症，如用补药无效而又不能峻攻时，受用自制方，名曰“白玉消胀汤”甚佳（茯苓30克，玉米须30克，白茅根30克，抽葫芦12克，冬瓜皮30克，大腹皮10克，益母草15克，车前草15克，土元10克，茜草10克，川棟子10克，延胡10克，紫菀10克，枳壳10克）。

此方通气行水，活血助疏，上利肺气以行治节，下开水府而畅三焦。虽亦有逐邪之力，然无伤正损人之弊，施诸补药以后而肿胀不减者用之，每获良效。

In the clinical setting, I deeply empathize with the challenges faced by Dr. Wú [Qiān] in treating this disease. Therefore, I have been diligent in seeking knowledge and when dealing with conditions of significant swelling, especially when supplementing medicinals prove ineffective and drastic attacking methods are not suitable, I have found great success in using a personal formula I’ve named “Báiyù Xiāozhàng Tāng [White Jade Distention Dispersing Decoction]”, which consists of fu ling 30g, yu mi xu 30g, bai mao gen 30g, chou hu lu 12g, dong gua pi 30g, da fu pi 10g, yi mu cao 15g, che qian zi 15g, tu yuan 10g, qian cao 10g, chuan lian zi 10g, yan hu suo 10g, zi wan 10g, zhi qiao 10g.

This formula frees qi, moves water, quickens the blood, and assists coursing. In the upper [body] it disinhibits lung qi in order to conduct management and regulation, and in the lower [body] it opens the water mansion and frees the triple burner.  Although it possesses the ability to expel pathogenic factors, it does so without damaging the right [qi] and causing harm to the patient. It is particularly effective when used after supplementing medicinals have failed to reduce swelling, consistently yielding positive results.

水肿是一个病状，有许多原因可以引发，如肝硬化腹水，肾炎病的水肿，心脏病水肿，营养不良水肿等，则实非本文所能全部概括。

Edema [water swelling] is a medical condition with numerous potential causes, such as ascites due to liver cirrhosis, edema due to nephritis, cardiac edema related to heart disease, malnutrition-induced edema, etc. It is beyond the scope of this article to comprehensively cover all possible causes of edema.

四、石水

石水是由于肾阳虚衰，不能温化水湿，水气不能从小便排出体外，而下结于少腹，故腹胀如石坚硬。病在下焦，属于水气内结，切其脉沉而不起。水结于下，未及于肺，所以其人不喘。水气在肾而凌于肝，可见胁下胀满疼痛等证。

4. Stone Water

Stone-water is a condition resulting from the deficiency and debilitation of kidney yang, leading to the inability of warming and transforming water dampness. [Therefore] water qi is unable to be expelled from the body through the urine, causing binding in the lower abdomen, which manifests with abdominal distention, which is hard and rigid resembling a stone. The pathology is focused in the lower burner, and characterized by the internal binding of water qi, with a pulse that is deep and fails to rise. As the water binds in the lower region and has not reached the lungs, individuals with this condition do not exhibit wheezing. When water qi is in the kidneys and affects the liver, symptoms such as fullness, distension, and pain below the ribs may be observed.

总而言之，四水之中，风水与皮水相类属表；正水与石水相类属里；但风水恶风，皮水不恶风；正水自喘，石水不自喘为异，临证之时须加以鉴别。

石水的治疗，可选用温补脾肾，佐以舒肝通络之法，如真武汤加桂枝，川棟子、元胡、石楠藤，小茴香等药物。

In summary, among the four types of water [conditions], wind-water and skin-water are associated with the exterior, while regular-water and stone-water are associated with the interior. However, wind-water is associated with aversion to wind, while skin-water does not have this aversion. Regular-water may cause wheezing on its own, while stone-water does not. It is essential to differentiate between them in clinical practice. 

For the treatment of stone-water, [one] may first use warming and supplementing medicinals for the spleen and kidneys, along with assistant medicinals to course the liver and free the network vessels. Examples include Zhēnwǔ Tāng with added gui zhi, chuan lian zi, yuan hu, shi nan teng, as well as aromatic herbs like xiao hui xiang.

Liu Duzhou on Water Patterns [水证论] – Part 2

On By eranevenIn Formulas (方剂), Jīn Guì Yào Lüè (金匱要略), Liú Dùzhōu (刘渡舟), Shāng Hán Lùn (伤寒论), Translations & Writings (译著与文章)

From ‘Essential Points on Clinical Patterns in the Shanghan Lun’. [刘渡舟-伤寒论临证指要]

水气病脉证并治

Water Qi Disease, Pulses, Patterns, and Treatment. 

[The following are lines found within the Jingui Yaolue Water Qi chapter] 

《金匮•水气病脉证篇》：“少阴脉，紧而沉，紧则为痛，沉则为水，小便即难。

“[When] the shaoyin pulse is tight and deep, tight signifies that there is pain, while deep signifies that there is water, [with] difficult urination.” [JGYL 14.9] 

脉得诸沉者，当责有水，身体肿重”。

“[When] all pulses are deep, this is the responsibility of water, and manifests with generalized swelling and heaviness.”  [JGYL 14.10] 

“跌阳脉当伏，今反紧，本自有寒疝瘕，腹中痛。医反下之，下之则胸满短气。

“The instep yang pulse should be hidden, but conversely now it is tight, this is because there is cold at the root with mounting conglomerations and abdominal pain. If a physician incorrectly purges, this will result in chest fullness and shortness of breath.” [JGYL 14.6] 

跌阳脉当伏，今反数，本自有热，消谷，小便数，今反不利，此欲作水”。

“The instep yang pulse should be hidden, but conversely now it is rapid, this is because there is heat at the root, causing dispersion of grain and frequent urination. If the urination is inhibited, this means water is soon to rise.”  [JGYL 14.7] 

“寸口脉弦而紧，弦则卫气不行，即恶寒，水不沾流，走于肠间”。

“[When] the cun kou pulse is wiry and tight, wiry signifies that the defensive [qi] is not moving, which manifests with aversion to cold, and water that does not moisten and flow, [but is] running into the intestines.”  [JGYL 14.9] 

又“夫水病人，目下有卧蚕，面目鲜泽，脉伏其人消渴，病水腹大，小便不利，其脉沉绝者，有水，可下之。

“A patient with water disease has sleeping silkworms below the eyes, a bright sheen in the face and eyes, a deep pulse, and dispersion thirst. [If] water disease manifests with an enlarged abdomen, inhibited urination, and a deep and expiring pulse, [this indicates] water, which can be purged.” [JGYL 14.11] 

又“水病脉出者死。” 

“In water disease, [when] the pulse bursts out, [the patient] will die.”  [JGYL 14.10] 

以上援引《金匮》对水肿病的脉诊、色诊、问诊以及预后不良之诊，对指导临床意义非凡。 水气病可分为四种类型：风水、皮水、正水、石水。至于五胜之水气，可列人正水，石水之范畴。 大肿精那实而正不虚的有三种洽疗友法，即发汗，利小便与攻下之法。这就是《内经》说的“开鬼门，洁净府”的治疗原则。

The above quotes from the “Jingui” regarding the pulse diagnosis, color diagnosis, questioning, and the prognosis of edema have extraordinary significance in guiding clinical practice. Water qi can be classified into four types: wind-water, skin-water, true-water, and stone-water. As for five viscera water qi, they fall into the categories of true-water and stone-water. There are three effective therapeutic methods for excess and non-deficient major swelling, namely sweat effusing, urination disinhibiting, and offensive purging. This corresponds to the treatment principle mentioned in the “Neijing” as “opening the ghost gate and cleansing the mansion.”

一、风水

风水由于风邪侵袭肌表，故脉来而浮；若卫气虚不能固表，则脉浮软而见汗出恶风之证；荣卫之行涩，水道不利，而水湿滞于分肉，则身重而懒于活动。

【治法】疏风益卫，健脾利湿

【方药】防己黄芪汤

防已一两，甘草半两（炙），白术七钱半，黄芪一两（去芦）

上倒麻豆大、每抄五钱匕、生姜四片、大枣一枚、水盏半、煎八分，去渣温服，良久再服。喘者加麻黄半两，胃中不和者加芍药三分，气上冲者加桂枝三分；下有陈寒者加细辛三分。服后当如虫行皮中，从腰下如冰，后坐被上，又以一被绕腰下，温令微汗，瘥。

I. Wind-Water

Wind-water occurs due to the invasion of wind pathogens in the fleshy exterior, resulting in a floating pulse. If defensive qi is deficient and cannot secure the exterior, the pulse becomes floating and soft, accompanied by symptoms such as sweating and aversion to wind. The circulation of nutrient and defensive qi becomes obstructed, leading to water stagnation in the muscles, causing heaviness and reluctance to move.

[Treatment Method] Course wind, boost the defensive [qi], strengthen the spleen, and disinhibit dampness.

[Prescription] Fangji Huangqi Tang

Fangji (1-2 liang), Gancao (half liang, roasted), Baizhu (seven and a half qian), Huangqi (1 liang, husked)

Cut the above [ingredients] to the size of hemp seeds. Scoop up five qian-spoonfuls per dose [and add this with] four slices of shengjiang and one dazao to a cup and-a-half of water. Boil this down to eight tenths and remove the dregs. Take warm and wait a while before taking more. For panting, use an additional half liang of mahuang. For disharmony in the stomach, add three fen of shaoyao. For upward surging qi, add three fen of guizhi. For old cold in the lower body, add three fen of xixin. After taking [the formula, the patient should feel a sensation] like bugs crawling in the skin and icy coldness from the waist down. [Have the patient] sit on a bedcover and wrap another bedcover around them below the waist, to make them warm enough to cause a slight sweat. This will bring about recovery.

如果风水而一身悉肿，脉浮，恶风，反映了风邪袭于肌表，肺气之治节不利，决渎失司，水溢皮肤，故一身悉肿。风邪客表则恶风，气血向外抗邪故脉浮；风性疏泄可见汗出；汗出则阳气得泄，故身无大热。此证治以越婢汤，宣肺以利小便，清热以散风邪。

If wind-water manifests in generalized swelling with a floating pulse and aversion to wind, it indicates that wind pathogens have attacked the fleshy exterior. [Here] lung qi is hindered, leading to the loss of control [of water] with water overflowing into the skin, which results in generalized swelling. When wind pathogens settle in the exterior, there is aversion to wind, and [because] qi and blood move towards the surface to contend with the pathogen, the pulse becomes floating. Sweating is a manifestation of the free coursing nature of wind. [With] sweating, yang qi is discharged, therefore there is no major heat in the body. For the treatment of this condition, Yuebi Tang is used to diffuse the lungs, promote urination, and clear heat in order to scatter wind pathogens.

越婢汤方

麻黄六两，石膏半斤，生姜三两，甘草二两，大枣十五. 校以水六升，先煮麻黄去上沫，内诸药，煮取三升、分温三服。恶风者加附子一枚，炮。

方中麻黄宣肺以利水，石膏清解郁热以肃肺气之下降；

甘草补脾以扶正；姜、枣调和荣卫以行阴阳。

Yuè Bì Tāng

Mahuang 6 liang, Shigao 1/2 jin, Shengjiang 3 liang, Gancao 2 liang, Dazao 15 pieces. 

In 6 sheng of water, first boil the mahuang and remove the foam that rises to the top. Add the remaining ingredients and boil until three sheng remain. Separate and take warm in three doses. With aversion to wind, add one piece of blast fried fuzi. 

Within the formula mahuang diffuses the lungs and disinhibits water. Shigao clears and resolves depressed heat, addressing the downbearing of lung qi.

Gancao supplements the spleen in order to support the right [qi]. Shengjiang and dazao harmonize the nutritive and defense in order to move Yin and Yang.

以上两证，虽同为“风水”而有虚实之分（亦如桂枝汤和麻黄汤虚实之分）。审其虚者，则用防己黄芪汤，一定抓住“身重汗出恶风”的主证；审其实者，则用越婢汤，一定抓住“脉浮、恶风、身肿不渴”的主证。

The two conditions above, though both involving “wind-water,” are differentiated based on deficiency and excess (similar to the differentiation between Guizhi Tang and Mahuang Tang). For deficiency, use Fangji Huangqi Tang to address the main symptoms of “body heaviness, sweating and aversion to wind.” For excess, use Yuèbì Tāng, focusing on the main symptoms of “floating pulse, aversion to wind, body swelling, and no thirst.”

对水肿发作时需要察其部位而治之。才能达到“因势利导”使水邪乃服。仲景曰：“诸有水者，腰以下肿，当利小便；腰以上肿，当发汗乃愈。”凡腰以上肿，多因风寒湿邪，侵于肌表，闭郁肺气，水湿停留而成。故治宜宣通肺气，开发毛窍，使在外之水从汗液排出；腰以下肿，有虚有实；虚者为阳气不足，不能化气行水而使水邪停居于下；实者为水湿之邪停留于下而为水肿，但其人正气不虚、脉沉而有力，兼见小便不利，以及腹部胀满证。

When treating edema, it’s crucial to observe its location and treat accordingly. [When one] is able to “guide ones actions according to the circumstances”, [then] water pathogens can be addressed. Zhang Zhongjing said; 

“In all cases of water, with swelling below the waist, one must disinhibit urination; for those with swelling above the waist, one must effuse sweat in order to resolve.” 

All swelling above the waist is often caused by wind-cold-damp, which invade the fleshy exterior and block and depress lung qi, [which results in] the settling of water-damp. Therefore, suitable treatment is to diffuse and free lung qi, open and effuse the orifices, and cause the discharge of water on the surface though the sweat. For swelling below the waist, there is both deficiency and excess. Deficiency is due to insufficiency of yang qi, which is unable to transform qi and move water, which leads to the stoppage and residing of water pathogens in the lower body. Excess is the result of water-damp pathogens that have stopped and settled in the lower body with water swelling. Although the patients right qi is not deficient, the pulse is deep yet strong, and is accompanied by inhibited urination as well as abdominal distention and fullness signs.

腰以上肿，发汗当用越婢加术汤（即越婢汤加白术四两）；腰以下肿，而阳虚气寒，小便不利当用真武汤；脉沉有力而小便不利者，当用牡蛎泽泻散（牡蛎、泽泻、瓜蒌根、蜀漆、葶苈子、商陆根、海藻各等分，同捣，下筛散），更于白中治之，白饮和服方寸匕，日三服。小便利，止后服。

For swelling above the waist, [one must] effuse sweat by using Yuebi Jiazhu Tang [Yuebi Tang with 4 liang of Baizhu]. For swelling below the waist, due to yang deficiency qi cold with inhibited urination, use Zhenwu Tang. When the pulse is deep and strong and the urination is inhibited, use Muli Zexie San [equal parts muli, zexie, guslougen, shuqi, tinglizi, shanglugen, and haizao pounded and sieved into a powder].  Work [the powder] in a mortar to blend with a white [rice] cool decoction. Take a square inch spoonful three times a day. [If] urination is uninhibited cease taking [the decoction].

水之去路有二：在表者发汗，在里者渗利，因势利导，使水气得去而愈。但临床所见，也有腰以上肿，而内渗于里；腰以下肿，而外溢于表，以致肺气不宣，肾气不化，大气不转。如此则可变通其治：如以发汗去其表邪，又要兼用滲利，务使在里之水可以尽去；腰以下肿，既要渗利，又应“提壶揭盖”开其肺气，使上窍通而下窍利，则水邪方能尽去。发汗与利小便治水两大法宝，此外对于正虚者又有温阳化气，健脾运水、扶正祛邪、益气固表等法。应变通选用而不拘于一格。

There are two roads for the elimination of water: through the exterior by means of sweat effusion, and through the interior by means of percolation and disinhibiting. By guiding one’s actions according to circumstances, water qi can be expelled resulting in resolution [of the condition]. However, in clinic one may see [cases] with swelling above the waist and inward percolation to the interior; swelling below the waist and outward seepage into the exterior resulting in lung qi not diffusing, kidney qi not transforming and major qi not shifting. 

In such cases, flexibility is needed for treatment, such as effusing sweat to eliminate the exterior pathogen, while at the same time using a percolating and disinhibiting [method] to ensure that water in the interior can be completely expelled.  [For] swelling below the waist, we already want to percolate and disinhibit, and also apply the “lift the pot and remove the lid” [method] to open lung qi, which causes the upper orifices to be free and the lower orifices to be disinhibited, resulting in the complete expulsion of water pathogens. 

Sweat effusion and disinhibiting urination are two magic weapons for treating water [diseases]. In addition, for those with deficiency patterns, there is the method of warming yang and transforming qi, strengthening the spleen and moving water, supporting the right and dispelling pathogens, and boosting qi to secure the exterior, among other techniques. One should be flexible in choosing and applying these methods, without adhering strictly to a single approach.

Liu Duzhou on Water Patterns [水证论]

On By eranevenIn Jīn Guì Yào Lüè (金匱要略), Liú Dùzhōu (刘渡舟), Shāng Hán Lùn (伤寒论)

From ‘Essential Points on Clinical Patterns in the Shanghan Lun’. [刘渡舟-伤寒论临证指要]

The following is a direct translation from the water chapter in Professor Liu’s brief but mighty text ‘Essential Points on Clinical Patterns in the Shanghan Lun’. My plan is to translate the entire chapter over the next little while as time permits, with the eventual goal of translating the entire text. This first section provides an overview of the concept and generation of water pathologies. Later sections will discuss the main presentations and treatments. 

水证”，指的是因于水邪伤人所致的各种病证。

水是构成人体的重要物质。《佛经》言人禀四大而成形（即地、水、火、风），《内经》言人禀五行而生（即水、火、木、金、土）。但水能载舟，亦能覆舟，有二重性，有其用，亦有其害。今援引《伤寒论》和《金匮要略》两书中的有关水证之文，并参以己意，试论如下。

The term ‘water patterns’ 水证 refers to the various illnesses caused by damage due to pathogenic water.

Water is an essential substance in the human body. In the Buddhist scriptures, it is said that humans inherit the four elements to form their bodies (earth, water, fire, and wind), while in the Neijing, it says that humans inherit the five phases to live (water, fire, wood, metal, and earth). However, water, with its dual nature of being able to carry a boat or overturn it, can be both beneficial and harmful. I will now cite the relevant lines on water patterns from the Shanghan Lun and Jingui Yaolue as well as add personal insights, and analysis below.

水证的形成

水为有形之邪，其性寒冽，最伤阳气。水在人体的新陈代谢，正如《素问•经脉别论》所说：“饮人于胃，游溢精气，上输于脾，脾气散精，上归于肺，通调水道，下输膀胱，水精四布，五经并行，合于四时五脏阴阳，揆度以労常也”。

考本文之义，是指脏腑气化对水液的代谢而言。

Formation of Water Disorders

Water, as a tangible evil, has a cold and icy nature, which is extremely damaging to yang qi. In its discussion on water metabolism in the human body, the chapter on the ‘Differentiation of Channels’ in the Suwen says:  

“Water is ingested into the stomach, circulates and overflows its essence and qi upward to the spleen, where the spleen’s qi disperses the essence, which ascends to the lungs, [which then] regulate the water pathways, descends [water] to the bladder, and distributes water essence through the four limbs and the five vessels simultaneously. [When] this process aligns with the interaction of the four seasons, the five organs, and yin-yang balance, the estimates and measures [text] regards this as normal.”

In the context of this text, it refers to the qi transformation of the organs in relation to the metabolism of water and fluids. 

水先入于胃，藉胃气的腐熟之功，使水液游行于下，并摄取水之精气而上运于脾。夫脾与胃相表里，而又能为胃行其津液，故脾又将水精而上归于肺。归肺之水精，处于上升的阶段，故称“地气上为云”。水至高源，又借肺气的呼吸与“通调”，才能或散或降，而润泽周身。所谓“通调”指肺有通达，调节三焦水道的功能。使水津或向外宣发叫“浮”，或向内下降叫“沉”。若与上述的“地气上为云”对照，这个阶段则叫“天气下为雨”

Water first enters the stomach, undergoes the fermenting function of stomach qi, allowing the fluid to circulate downward and absorb the essence of water, which then rises to the spleen. The spleen and stomach are interiorly and exteriorly related, and the spleen assists the stomach in managing its fluids, whereas the spleen further transports the essence of water to the lungs. The water essence which has returned to the lungs in the ascending phase, is termed “earthly qi rising as clouds.” When the water reaches its highest source, it relies on the lung qi’s breathing and regulation as well as its “freeing and regulating” [effect] in order to scatter and descend, thereby moistening the entire body. The term “freeing and regulating” refers to the lung’s function in coordinating the water pathways of the Triple Burner. The movement of water-fluids towards the exterior through diffusion and effusion is referred to as “floating”, [while] downward descending internally is referred to as “sinking”. This process, compared to the earlier phrase “earthly qi rising as clouds,” is described as “heavenly qi descending as rain.”

凡下行之水，最后必归于肾，藉肾的气化功能，又使水之清者，上升于肺；水之浊者，则下输膀胱，或蓄或泻，以为生理之常。这就不难看出，水的代谢，是由胃、脾、肺、肾、三焦五经之气；经过升、降、浮、沉的生理运动，方成其“水精四布，五经并行”的新陈代谢作用. 如果“五经”之气化失调，则使司水之功能受到障碍，尤以阳气不能化阴，气机不能行水之故，则使水的代谢，不能顺利进行，因而构成气寒水凝，或流溢失序，或上冒清阳，水之气为寒，寒阴邪必犯阳气，因此，水寒浩淼难制，在表在里，沿三焦以为害，于是各种水证逐次发生。

All descending water ultimately returns to the kidneys. Through the kidney’s transformative function, clear water ascends to the lungs, and turbid water descends to the bladder, either accumulating or releasing, maintaining a physiological balance. It is evident that water metabolism involves the qi of the stomach, spleen, lungs, kidneys, and the Triple Burner, undergoing physiological movements of ascending, descending, floating, and sinking, resulting in the dynamic metabolic functions of “distributing water essence through the four limbs and the five vessels simultaneously.” 

If there is an imbalance in the qi transformation of the “five vessels,” hindering the water regulatory functions, especially the inability of yang qi to transform yin, and the inability of the qi mechanism to manage water, water metabolism cannot proceed smoothly. This disruption leads to the formation of cold-water congealment, chaotic overflow, or the upward surge of clear yang. As the qi of water is cold, this invariably invades yang qi. As a result, this vast cold water is difficult to control, causing harm both externally and internally along the Triple Burner, leading to the successive occurrence of various water disorders.

“水肿”，肿之由于水气者。《灵枢•水胀篇》曰：“水始起也。目窠上微肿，如新卧起之状，其颈脉动时咳，阴股间寒，足胫肿，腹乃大，其水已成矣。以手按其腹，随手而起，如裹水之状，此其候也”。

《素间•气厥论》曰：“肺移寒于肾，为涌水。涌水者，按腹不坚，水气客于大肠，疾行则鸣濯濯，如囊裹浆，水之病也”。

Water swelling/edema [水肿] is a condition caused by water qi. The Lingshu, Water distention chapter states: 

“[When] water begins to rise the eye sockets are slightly swollen, like the appearance upon waking. The neck pulses move with coughing at times. [When] there is cold between the yin thighs [inside of the thighs], swelling of the legs and ankles, and the abdomen becomes large, [this[ indicates that water has already accumulated. When pressing the abdomen with the hands, it rises along with the hands, resembling a water-filled state. These are its signs.”

The Suwen, Discourse on qi desertion says: 

“If the lungs transmit cold to the kidneys, it results in surging water. In surging water, the abdomen is not firm when pressed. Water qi has settled in the large intestine. [If] the patient moves quickly, there are gurgling sounds, similar to a bag holding fluids. This is a water disease.”

《水热穴论》“肾何以能聚水而生病？肾者，胃之关也，关门不利，故聚水而从其类也。上下溢于皮肤，故为附肿。胕肿者，聚水而生病也”。

水肿为脾、肺、肾三脏之病变。盖水为至阴，其本在肾；水化于气，其标在肺；水惟畏土，其制在脾。若肺虚则气不化精而化水；脾虚则土不制水而反乘，肾虚则水无所主而妄行。水不归经，则逆而上泛，故传人于脾，则肌肉浮肿；传入于肺，则气息喘急。分而言之，三脏各有所主；合而言之，则总由火气衰微，肾中之气不能化，故水道不通，溢而为肿. 

The Suwen, Discourse on Acupoints to treat Water and Heat says: 

“The kidneys, how can they generate disease by gathering water? The kidneys are the gate of the stomach. If the gate is not [opening] freely, water accumulates and follows its kind. Above and below it overflows to the skin, causing attached swelling. Swelling is the result of water accumulation.”

Edema is a pathological change involving the spleen, lungs, and kidneys. Since water is extreme yin, its root is in the kidneys; water transforms into qi, and its manifestation is in the lungs; water fears earth, and its control is in the spleen. If the lungs are deficient, qi cannot transform into essence but transforms into water. If the spleen is deficient, earth cannot control water and, instead, is overcome by it. If the kidneys are deficient, water has no master and flows recklessly. When water does not follow its channel, it runs counterflow and floods upwards. When it enters the spleen, muscles become swollen; when it enters the lungs, breathing becomes rapid. In summary, each organ has its respective role, but it is ultimately due to the decline of fire qi, resulting in the inability of kidney qi to transform, leading to obstruction of the waterways, overflow, and swelling.

Cinnamon Twig Decoction (guì zhī tāng)

On By eranevenIn Case Studies （医案), Huáng Huáng (黃煌), Jīng Fāng (经方), Translations & Writings (译著与文章)

The following is a very small snippet of the common cold/influenza section from our translation of Professor Huáng Huáng’s latest book, which will be published and released in January 2024 by Eastland Press. I am so honoured to have been a part of the translation team for this beautiful book alongside Daniel Eng and Craig Mitchell. Hope you enjoy.

Indications: Used for deficient patients who have come down with the common cold. This formula is commonly used for common colds in patients who have had major illnesses, surgery, chemotherapy, excessive medications, are menstruating or are postpartum, have congenital weaknesses, are debilitated, elderly, or are frequently ill. It has been observed in clinical practice that many of these patients do not present with obvious fevers, but instead with fear of cold, weakness, a runny nose with clear mucus, and a pale and dark tongue; These patients commonly experience spontaneous sweating, an aversion to drafts, fever or a subjective sensation of being hot, a feeling of upward surging, palpitations, and a floating, weak and slack pulse.

Important Issues: After taking the formula, one should drink hot congee. The congee can be made of millet or rice, which should be cooked over a gentle heat until the grain has broken down completely. The second important issue is that drafts and cold should be avoided, and ideally one should cover up until a sweat has been obtained. The third is that the patient should be advised to consume light and bland food and drink in order to avoid any extra burden on the digestive system.

Usage And Modifications:

1. This is an ancient formula used for strengthening and fatigue recovery. It is applicable for diseases with signs and symptoms of palpitations, abdominal pain, spontaneous sweating, emaciation, a weak pulse, etc. It can also adjust and regulate a weak and deficient constitution. It is unsuitable for overweight patients or those with edema.

2. Modifications:

• For fatigue, profuse sweating, and cold and painful joints, add Aconiti Radix lateralis praeparata (zhì fù zǐ) 10g.

• For profuse sweating and a sallow complexion, add Astragali Radix (huáng qí) 15g.

With emaciation and a poor appetite, add Codonopsis Radix (dǎng shēn) 15g

With stiffness and pain in the nape and back, dizziness and headache, add Puerariae Radix (gé gēn) 30g.

Representative Case History:

Fifty-four-year-old female, 156cm/64kg.

Initial consultation on September 27, 2014.

History: Sinusitis for over 20 years, with a weekly tendency to catch a cold. With these colds she would experience headaches, frequent sneezing, an aversion to drafts, and sweating from the head. She would also be hungry easily, crave sweet foods, and have a difficult time falling asleep.

Signs: dark, red complexion; dark and dull lips; dark, red tongue; a thick tongue coating; and a moderate pulse, at 72 beats per minute.

Prescription: Cinnamomi Ramulus (guì zhī) 10g, Cinnamomi Cortex (ròu guì) 5g, Paeoniae Radix alba (bái sháo) 15g, Zingiberis Rhizoma (gān jiāng) 5g, Jujubae Fructus (dà zǎo) 30g, Glycyrrhizae Radix (gān cǎo) 10g, Astragali Radix (huáng qí) 30g; 10 packets; 5 days on and 2 days off.

Second consultation on October 7, 2014: After taking the formula, she did not sneeze, and had not contracted a common cold in 7 days. Her appetite and sleep were improved, yet she still woke easily. She continued with another 15 packets of the same formula, one packet taken every other day.

Transformative Tales: Harnessing the Power of Chinese Medicine – Two Remarkable Case Studies

On By eranevenIn Case Studies （医案), Formulas (方剂), Jīn Guì Yào Lüè (金匱要略), Medicinals (中草药), Translations & Writings (译著与文章)

I’d like to share two cases from my personal clinic, involving patients I saw this week for follow-up after they started their Chinese herbal formulas. The first patient had never tried Chinese herbs before, so this was a new experience for her. The second patient, of Chinese descent, had grown up taking herbs her grandmother would prepare for her, so she was quite used to the ‘deliciousness’ of the herbs. The purpose of these two cases is to illustrate the remarkable effectiveness of Chinese herbal medicine, especially in situations where their allopathic physicians had few treatment options to offer.

In a follow up post, I will discuss my reasoning for the formula selections as well as the underlying mechanisms involved.

Case 1

Initial consultation on August 25, 2023.

A 43-year-old female presented with a longstanding issue of pain in her hands that had been bothering her for over 15 years, and it had recently worsened. This pain was significantly affecting her ability to work, as she is a sculptor and a professor. She had been managing the pain with Ibuprofen, but this approach had become less effective in recent times.

The pain was localized exclusively to her hands and would cause them to swell up easily, appearing “puffy” without any noticeable discoloration. This pain also had a negative impact on her range of motion and grip strength, which was affecting her ability to engage in activities such as swimming. Rest provided some relief from the pain. Additionally, she was experiencing edema in her feet and hands and had frequent and inhibited urination. She also reported occasional dry mouth and thirst, and her hands, feet, and nose would become cold while the rest of her body remained warm.

Despite these discomforts, she maintained a good appetite without experiencing bloating. She mentioned being a light sleeper and often woke up due to the pain. The patient also had varicose veins and spider veins, dry heels, and occasional headaches. She had a tendency to sweat easily.

Notably, there were no complaints of dizziness or palpitations, and while she experienced occasional nausea, it was not a frequent occurrence. Her bowel movements were regular. The consultation was conducted via video, so no pulse reading was performed.

Formula: Fangji Huangqi Tang + Wuling San + Guizhi Fuling Wan

Fangji 18g
Huangqi 25g
Cangzhu 20g
Gancao 15g
Ganjiang 18g
Fuling 20g
Zhuling 18g
Zexie 25g
Guizhi 20g
Chishao 20g
Mudanpi 20g
Taoren 18g

Raw herb powder – 9g daily.

Follow-up on September 29, 2023. The patient reported significant improvement. After just one week on the prescribed formula, the pain in her hands had subsided dramatically, and she has not experienced any soreness or flares since then. She has not needed any pain medication and was able to swim and work without any issues. The swelling in her hands and feet had also reduced, with a more substantial improvement in her hands. Urination was less inhibited and easier, and all other symptoms were under control.

The same formula was continued for the time being, with a follow-up scheduled for November.

Case 2

Initial consultation on August 25, 2023.

A 37-year-old female presented with a chronic issue of dry eyes that had been troubling her for several years. Notably, the condition had been progressively worsening over the past few months. Her eyes would frequently become red, feel gritty, and occasionally produce excess tears, although this excessive tearing did not alleviate the dryness. She found wearing contact lenses uncomfortable. She had undergone a procedure before COVID to address potential blockages, but it had provided limited relief, and she had not pursued any further procedures since then. She also experienced frontal headaches, which were related to eye strain. She had a tendency to feel cold easily, suffered from hot flashes preceding her menstrual period, and had regular bouts of constipation, with a bowel movement occurring every other day. Additionally, she complained of dryness in her mouth and throat. She had previously received treatment for dizziness, which was no longer a concern. There were no issues with nausea, night sweats, palpitations, sleep quality, or appetite, and she did not experience reflux. Pulses were deep-thin and wiry bilaterally.

Formula: Wen Jing Tang (standard doses), with the addition of Gegen (25g) and Juhua (20g). Raw herb powder – 8g daily.

Follow-up on September 29, 2023: the patient reported experiencing several good days over the past month when her eyes felt great. While there were still some bad days, these were often associated with increased screen time and the quality of her sleep the night before. The redness in her eyes had significantly reduced, and they were no longer gritty. She also noticed that she could lubricate her eyes more easily with a few blinks, whereas previously, it took several minutes. Although there was improvement in her bowel movements, they were not yet perfect. She had also observed a warm sensation throughout her body after drinking the formula, and her general sensitivity to cold had improved. The patient had recently experienced a canker sore outbreak, and had neglected to mention during the previous visit that this was a relatively common experience during times of stress. A week prior to the follow-up appointment, she had undergone an eye assessment, which diagnosed her with moderate-severe dry eye syndrome. Treatment options involving invasive procedures were offered, but given the positive effects of the herbs thus far, she opted to monitor her progress over the next few months before deciding on any further procedures. The same formula was continued, with Wuzhuyu reduced to 6g and the addition of Huanglian (6g) and Zhishi (18g). 

Fú Líng Yǐn (Poria Drink) 茯苓饮

On By eranevenIn Case Studies （医案), Huáng Huáng (黃煌), Jīn Guì Yào Lüè (金匱要略), Translations & Writings (译著与文章)

Today, I am eager to share some insights and offer a comprehensive overview of a formula that often goes overlooked but possesses remarkable effectiveness. Through the presentation of its original lines, patient characteristics, suitable conditions, and a case study, my aim is to illuminate the precise contexts, timing, and rationales behind the application of this formula.

治心胸中有停痰宿水，自吐出水後，心胸間虛，氣滿不能食，消痰氣，令能食。
A treatment for collected phlegm and abiding water in the heart and chest with a vacuity of the
heart and chest, fullness of qi, and an inability to eat following the spontaneous vomiting of water.
[This formula] disperses phlegm-qi, and enables one to eat.

Jingui Yaolue 12

Composition:

Fu Ling 3 liang
Ren Shen 3 liang
Bai Zhu 3 liang
Zhi Shi 2 liang
Ju Pi 2.5 liang
Sheng Jiang 4 liang

Formula Presentation:

  • Stifling sensation in the chest
  • Abdominal distention
  • Vomiting of watery mucus
  • The sound of splashing water in the stomach
  • Poor appetite.

Patient Characteristics:

Emaciation: gaunt appearance, a pale and sallow complexion that lacks luster, dusky pale lips and tongue or a slight degree of superficial facial edema.

Digestive upset: lack of appetite, a loss of hunger sensation or abdominal fullness and discomfort after eating, frequent belching, a bitter taste in the mouth, vomiting of fluids, acid reflux, and heartburn. The tongue coating will be thick and could also be white and/or greasy.

Stoppage of fluids in the stomach: a soft abdominal wall that lacks resistance or one that although tight has a sense of nothing underneath; this is most often observed along with splash sounds in the stomach and accumulations of qi in the upper abdomen.

Suitable Conditions

Digestive diseases including gastric diseases such as gastric prolapse, gastric atony, chronic gastritis, peptic ulcers, gastric injury from NSAIDs, and anorexia; intestinal diseases such as pediatric diarrhea, irritable bowel syndrome, habitual constipation; chronic pancreatitis, and post-operative abdominal pain.

Other disorders including cardiac insufficiency, breast lobular hyperplasia, fibroadenomas of the breast, uterine prolapse, hypotension, motion sickness, eczema, and chilblains.

Commentary by Huang Huang

Great formula for gastric motility and is able to speed up gastric emptying and eliminate fluids retained in the stomach. In this way it restores the appetite. Patients are usually thin and weak with flat abdomens, abdominal walls that lack elasticity, and prominent splash sounds in the stomach. If these weak patients are mistakenly given enriching and tonifying substances, it can result in ascending fire with them feeling upset, irritable, and restless.

Patients typically experience abdominal distention right after eating and complain of a strong sense of pressure in the chest and abdomen that is slightly relieved by belching. They will vomit up fluids or froth and do not feel hungry. This discomfort in the stomach often leads them to be depressed and anxious and have insomnia, palpitations, lightheadedness, and headache. This can be accompanied by a bitter taste in the mouth and a sense of something being stuck in the throat.

While these patients have a rather thick tongue coating, the tongue body itself is not necessarily swollen and may in fact be thin and small. Usually it tends to be dusky.

Dr. Huang usually increases the dosages of zhǐ shí and chén pí up to 30g each.

Case Study

Li, 39-year-old female, 160cm/48kg.

Initial consultation on January 6, 2017.

History: Two years ago, after giving birth, the patient suffered from depression that manifested as a stifling sensation in the chest, fluttering in the chest, irritability and uneasiness, and a poor appetite. Recently she had experienced epigastric distention and pain that was more pronounced after eating, with occasional acid reflux. Her stools were typically loose, and she was frequently dizzy, had a hard time falling asleep and occasionally had difficulty getting to sleep throughout the night. In addition, she had vitreous opacity and dry eye disease.

Signs: Thin build, sallow complexion with dark spots, splash sounds in the stomach, periumbilical pulsations, red inner eyelids (checked by drawing down the lower lid), a thick-greasy tongue coating, and a weak pulse, which was forceless hardon heavy pressure. Her blood pressure tended to be low.

Prescription: fú líng 40g dǎng shēn 15g, bái zhú 20g, zhǐ ké 20g, chén pí 20g, gān jiāng 5g, guì zhī 15g, zhì gān cǎo) 5g; 10 packets.

Second consultation on February 14, 2017: After taking the formula, her abdominal distention was reduced and her sleep improved. Her tongue coating was still thin, and her facial spots were less dark. The same formula was given, to be taken every other day.

Treatment of Prostatic Hyperplasia with Zhēn Wǔ Tāng

On By eranevenIn Case Studies （医案), Huǒ Shén Pài (火神派), Jīng Fāng (经方), Shāng Hán Lùn (伤寒论), Translations & Writings (译著与文章)

Lú Chónghàn [卢崇汉]

From ‘The Complete Interpretation of Case Studies from Chinese Medicines’ Fire Spirit School’

中医火神派医案全解

Case: Eto, 58 years old, Japanese patient, presented with prostatic hyperplasia, which manifested with frequent, urgent and difficult urination for six years. Symptoms had been increasing over the last two to three years. Symptoms were worse in the afternoon with an inability to hold his urine in and frequent urination. In addition, he suffered from nocturia up to fifteen-sixteen times a night, scanty urine and and a weak flow. Every time he would urinate, he would have to wait three to five minutes and this was accompanied by lower abdominal swelling and distention. 

Doctor Lu always treats based on the tongue, coating and pulse. [This patients] tongue body was pale and swollen with teeth marks along the edges, tongue coating was white, slippery and slimy, and pulse was deep and moderate with a lack of strength on deeper palpation. Doctor Lu felt that this was due to kidney yang weakness and debilitation as well as the settling and obstruction of water-dampness. Treatment method involved warming yang and disinhibiting water with Zhen Wu Tang [真武汤]. 

Zhi Fu Pian 75g (pre-cooked for two hours) 

Sheng Bai Zhu 15g

Fu Ling 25g

Yin Yang Huo 20g

Sheng Jiang 60g

 

After one package, his urine volume increased, frequency decreased, and flow was smooth. After three packages, his urination was very smooth, nocturia reduced to two times, but he still felt that the strength of his urination was not good. 

At the second consult, 25g of Gui Zhi was added, which had increased the strength of urinary flow. 

At the third consult, 15g of Sha Ren was added in order to absorb the qi of the five viscera into the kidneys. All together thirty packages were taken, at which point the condition had completely improved, urination was normal, nocturia occurred once a night, and urination felt more vigorous. 

Lu Chonghan believes that prostatic hyperplasia, occurs in middle aged and elderly patients, because middle aged and elderly patients’ yang qi has declined and qi transformation is deficient. Because qi transformation is deficient, this results in stoppage and obstruction of water-damp, which follows the Shaoyang triple warmer, descends, and settles in the anterior yin, eventually resulting in prostatic hyperplasia and swelling, leading to difficult urination. When serious this can cause blockage and stoppage which can result in dribbling urinary block. From the perspective of the root and branch, kidney yang vacuity and debilitation and deficient qi transformation are the root, while the pressure in the urinary tract, obstruction and lack of flow are the branch. Therefore, by grasping the root, we must warm yang, transform qi, disinhibit water and drain turbidity. Zhen Wu Tang is Zhongjing’s formula for Shaoyin yang vacuity, with water-damp collecting internally. When used for middle-aged and elderly patients with prostatic hyperplasia, the results are typically quite ideal. 

 

In clinical practice, Zhen Wu Tang is commonly used with variations, here using Yin Yang Huo as a substitute for Bai Shao. Acrid and majorly hot Fuzi is used to strengthen kidney yang, and is able to support and overcome kidney water, which causes the exuberance of the qi of true yang, so that qi transformation moves and turbid yin can be dispelled. Shengjiang can warm the stomach and dissipate water, as well as open and diffuse lung qi, which opens the upper water-gate, achieving the objective of opening the source of water (the lungs are the upper source of water). Baizhu can move the spleen and eliminate dampness. When the spleens’ function of moving dampness is improved, water can be properly controlled. Fuling is used to blandly percolate and disinhibit water, which regulates the middle burner. This leads to the outward expelling of turbid dampness. Yin Yang Huo guides yang into yin, frees and disinhibits the blood vessels and resolves hypertonicity in the sinews, thereby achieving the objective of freeing the waterways. When these medicinals are combined, the functions of the five viscera are all regulated and rectified, the yang of qi transformation is strengthened, and the qi transformation mechanism is initiated. 

 

How do we determine if the disease is caused by a yang vacuity? We can [diagnose it] based on the tongue, [tongue] coating, and pulse. If the tongue body is swollen and pale, with teeth marks, and the coating slippery, slimy, and white, or if the coating is white underneath and dry and yellow at the surface. From the perspective of the pulse, when the pulse is deep-slow, deep-moderate, or deep-weak, these all belong to Shaoyin yang vacuity and it can be determined that there is water-damp obstruction, which is yin cold obstruction. This is an extremely reliable pattern indicator. If turbid yin is not transformed and resolved, this easily causes settling and obstruction, which can manifest in the tongue. As a result, the tongue will commonly have teeth marks. If the tongue coating is white and slippery, this is a manifestation of a yang vacuity and loss of the warming and transformation function of true yang. When the tongue coating is white and slimy, this is a manifestation of yang vacuity cold damp obstruction in the lower burner. When the coating is white underneath and dry and yellow at the surface, this indicates that enduring damp depression is beginning to transform into heat. Although there is transformation into heat, the patient’s root pattern is still one of yang vacuity insufficiency, and in clinical practice, one must be aware of this. A deep pulse is due to yang vacuity. If all these tongue, [tongue] coating, and pulse signs exist, we can determine that the underlying patho-mechanism is one of yang vacuity damp obstruction. 

Huáng Yuányù on Guìzhī

On By eranevenIn Huáng Yuányù (黃元御), Translations & Writings (译著与文章)

桂枝　味甘、辛，氣香，性溫，入足厥陰肝、足太陽膀胱經。入肝家而行血分，走經絡而達營郁，善解風邪，最調木氣，升清陽脫陷，降濁陰沖逆，舒筋脈之急攣，利關節之壅阻，入肝膽而散遏抑，極止痛楚，通經絡而開痹澀，甚去濕寒，能止奔豚，更安驚悸。

Guìzhī: 

Sweet and acrid flavour, with a fragrant qi and warm nature. Enters the foot Jueyin liver and foot Taiyang bladder channels. [By] entering the liver domain it moves the blood layer and the channels and network vessels, as well as outthrusts depressed nutritive [qi]. [It is] excellent at resolving wind pathogens, and most excellent at regulating wood qi. It ascends clear yang, which has fallen and deserted, as well as downbears turbid yin, which has resulted in turbid counterflow. Guìzhī soothes tension and hypertonicity in the sinews and disinhibits congestion and obstruction in the joints. By entering the liver and gallbladder it dissipates and restrains, which results in the resolution of pain. It frees the channels and network vessels thereby opening impediment, excels at eliminating damp-cold, is able to alleviate running piglet, and calms fright palpitations. 

The above short little ditty on this beautiful herb, is an example of some of the rich textual works we’ll be covering in my upcoming class on the Guìzhī formula family. For anyone interested in being notified about these classes and any upcoming ones, please feel free to add yourself to my newsletter list by clicking here!

On Gé Gēn 葛根

On By eranevenIn Huáng Huáng (黃煌), Medicinals (中草药), Translations & Writings (译著与文章)

Gé Gēn (Radix Puerariae)

《神农本草经》: 味⽢，平。主消渴，⾝⼤热，呕吐，诸痹，起阴⽓，解诸毒。
[Shén Nóng Běn Cǎo Jīng]: Sweet flavour, and neutral Qi. Governs dispersion thirst, major body heat, vomiting, and various kinds of impediment. It raises the Yīn Qì and resolves all toxins.

《名医别录》：⽆毒。主治伤寒中风头痛，解肌发表出汗，开腠理，疗⾦疮，⽌痛，肋风痛。
[Míng Yī Bié Lù (Táo Hǒngjǐng – 456-536)]: “[It] has no toxicity. It governs the treatment of cold damage and wind strike headache; [it] releases the muscles, effuses the surface and promotes sweating; [it] opens the interstices, heals metal sores, stops pain and [treats] subcostal wind pain.”

东垣云：葛根⽢平温，世⼈初病太阳证，便服葛根升⿇汤，⾮也.
Lǐ Dōngyuán (1180-1251) said: “Gé Gēn is sweet, neutral and warm; common people, at the onset of a taiyang disease pattern, give Gegen Shengma Tang, this is incorrect.”

好古⽈：⽓平味⽢，升也，阳也。阳明经⾏经的药也。
(Wáng) Hǎogǔ (1200-1264) said: “It’s qi is neutral and flavour sweet, [for it] ascends, and is yang. Gé Gēn is a medicinal which moves the Yangming channel.”

Zhāng Zhìcōng (1616-1674): “sweet and acrid, white when powdered, therefore enters Yangming; the skin is black and flower red, and so unites with Taiyang. Therefore, Gé Gēn is able to diffuse and outthrust the qi of yangming center earth, and unite the taiyang channel on the exterior.”

《本草备要》：轻宣解肌，升阳散⽕。
[Essentials of the Materia Medica (Wáng Āng 1664)]: “[Gé Gēn] Lightly effuses and resolves the muscles, ascends yang, and scatters fire.”

(唐宗海 : “根深能引⽔⽓上达苗叶，故兼能升津液也.”
Táng Zōnghǎi (1846-1897): “[The] Deep roots [of Gé Gēn] are able to carry water qi upwards into the sprouts and leaves, [and is] therefore able to ascend fluids.”

According to Professor Huáng Huáng, patients that respond well to Gé Gēn formulas have the following characteristics.

  • Big, strong patients with thick, strong muscles
  • Slightly overweight
  • Heavy, cumbersome bodies
  • Coarse, thick skin
  • Hairy
  • Lazy appearance
  • Sallow, dark complexion

These patients have the following propensities:

  • Stiff neck and back due to tight muscles (tension in traps, levator scapula, sub-occipitals, etc.)
  • Headaches (Taiyang – Yangming)
  • Heavy Head (cloudy, foggy, etc.)
  • Dizziness
  • Loose Stools
  • Heavy and Cumbersome body

To learn more about Ge Gen and its various formulas, click here to check out my Gé Gēn class

Gé Gēn Tāng Case – Liú Dùzhōu

On By eranevenIn Case Studies （医案), Formulas (方剂), Liú Dùzhōu (刘渡舟), Shāng Hán Lùn (伤寒论), Translations & Writings (译著与文章)

Selected Clinical Case Histories of Liu Duzhou《刘渡舟临证验案精选》

Li X, a 38-year-old male.

He had suffered with persistent migraines for 2 years that remained unresolved despite long periods of treatment. He was introduced to Doctor Liu by a good friend and brought in for a consultation.

Chief complaint: right sided headaches, which commonly extended to the forehead and supraorbital ridge. This was accompanied by an absence of sweating, chills, a runny nose with clear mucus, irritability, a red complexion, dizziness, and poor sleep. The range of motion in his back was limited and he reported tightness in his neck and occipital area that became more severe during his headaches. His tongue was pale with a white coat, and his pulse was floating and slightly rapid.

This was differentiated as being cold pathogen lodged in the taiyang channels, resulting in symptoms of inhibited flow of channel qi.

Treatment required the promotion of sweat to expel pathogens, and unblock taiyang qi, so Kudzu Decoction (gé gēn tāng) was given:

Ephedrae Herba (má huáng) 4g
Puerariae Radix (gé gēn) 18g
Cinnamomi Ramulus (guì zhī) 12g
Paeoniae Radix alba (bái sháo) 12g
Glycyrrhizae Radix praeparata (zhì gān cǎo) 6g
Zingiberis Rhizoma recens (shēng jiāng) 12g
Jujubae Fructus (dà zǎo) 12 pieces.

Ephedrae Herba (má huáng) and Puerariae Radix (gé gēn) were to be decocted first with the froth removed before adding the other ingredients. After taking the decoction, the patient was covered up so a slight sweat could be obtained. He was to avoid drafts and cold.

After taking 3 packets, his back felt warm, which was followed by a mild sweat throughout the body, and a reduction in his headache and neck tension. 15 packets of the same formula were prescribed again, which completely resolved his headaches and neck tension.