Xiǎo Chái Hú Tāng
Xiǎo Chái Hú Tāng (小柴胡汤, “Minor Bupleurum Decoction”) comes from Shang Han Lun - Zhang Zhongjing (220 CE). Harmonizes Shao Yang, disperses heat, regulates Liver and Gallbladder Qi.
Main action
Harmonizes Shao Yang, disperses heat, regulates Liver and Gallbladder Qi
One of the most studied and researched formulas in all of TCM. The 'Shao Yang level' represents the border between outside and inside. Xiao Chai Hu Tang acts as a diplomat between these two worlds.
Indications
- Fever and alternating chills
- Fullness and bitterness in the hypochondrium
- Nausea and vomiting
- lack of appetite
- Irritability
- Tongue
- Fine white or yellow coating
- Pulse
- rope
Composition
| Herb | Role | Dose | Function |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chái Hú 柴胡 | Emperor (君 jūn) | 12g | Disperses Shao Yang heat, regulates Liver Qi |
| Huáng Qín 黄芩 | Minister (臣 chén) | 9g | Clears Shao Yang's heat, supports Chai Hu |
| Bàn Xià 半夏 | Assistant (佐 zuǒ) | 9g | Harmonizes Stomach, descends rebellious Qi, stops vomiting |
| Rén Shēn 人参 | Assistant (佐 zuǒ) | 9g | Tonifies Spleen Qi, prevents entry to the interior |
| Shēng Jiāng 生姜 | Assistant (佐 zuǒ) | 9g | Harmonizes stomach, disperses cold |
| Dà Zǎo 大枣 | Assistant (佐 zuǒ) | 12g | Nourishes Blood, harmonizes, tones Spleen |
| Zhì Gān Cǎo 炙甘草 | Envoy (使 shǐ) | 6g | Harmonize all the ingredients |
The emperor–minister–assistant–envoy hierarchy (君臣佐使) describes the role of each herb in the formula.
Preparation
Decoction: boil 40 min. Take 2-3 times/day depending on fever
Classical modifications
Add: Gui Zhi (桂枝) 9g → Chai Hu Gui Zhi Tang (柴胡桂枝汤)
Current uses being studied
- viral hepatitis
- Chronic cholecystitis
- Malaria
- Fever of unknown cause
- Depression with physical symptoms
Precautions
- Avoid in excessive sweating or severe Yin deficiency
- Chai Hu in excess can dissipate Yin
Formulas must be prescribed by qualified professionals; they can interact with medications.
Profile
- Chinese name
- 小柴胡汤
- English name
- Minor Bupleurum Decoction
- Source
- Shang Han Lun - Zhang Zhongjing (220 CE)
- Dynasty
- Han
- Category
- Other formulas
- Constitutions
- Qi Stagnation Constitution
Health notice. Educational and study content. It describes concepts of Traditional Chinese Medicine and does not replace diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional. Needling, medicinal herbs and invasive techniques must be applied by trained professionals. Safety guide.
