When it comes to liver qi stagnation, many people might think of using Xiao Yao San (Free and Easy Wanderer Decoction), but some individuals find that it does not work for them. This may be due to a more complex internal condition.Xiao Yao San is primarily used to soothe the liver, strengthen the spleen, and nourish qi and blood. However, liver qi stagnation can lead to a series of other issues, such as spleen deficiency, insufficient qi and blood, and even poor blood circulation resulting in blood stasis! In this case, using Xiao Yao San may not be effective, as it does not have the function of activating blood circulation and resolving stasis!
Therefore, if you extend your tongue and notice that it is not only swollen but also darker in color than normal, with some purple spots on the surface, and if the veins under the tongue are engorged and purple, along with symptoms of liver qi stagnation and spleen deficiency, such asloss of appetite, chest tightness, shortness of breath, rib-side pain, insomnia with vivid dreams, and additional symptoms likesharp pains in the body, dizziness, headaches, and facial bruising, this indicates that you are a typical case of liver qi stagnation and blood stasis. At this point, we can replace Xiao Yao San withHong Hua Xiao Yao San (Safflower Free and Easy Wanderer Decoction), as it not only soothes the liver and moves qi but also activates blood circulation and resolves stasis, effectively addressing both qi stagnation and blood stasis!
Similarly, there isDan Zhi Xiao Yao San (Gardenia and Zhi Free and Easy Wanderer Decoction), which primarily addresses the situation of liver qi stagnation leading to fire due to prolonged qi stagnation, known as liver qi transforming into fire. At this time,the temper may become increasingly irritable, with minor issues causing anger, along with symptoms like dry mouth, bitter taste, dizziness, tinnitus, abdominal bloating, acid reflux, short and red urine, and dry stools. The sides of the tongue may not only be swollen but also red. Therefore, it is necessary to not only soothe the liver but also clear liver fire, making Dan Zhi Xiao Yao San more appropriate in this case.
Thus, although both conditions involve liver qi stagnation, if there are subtle differences, the corresponding treatment direction and medication will also differ. Therefore, do not blindly use Xiao Yao San; if unsure, it is best to consult a professional doctor for guidance. See you next time!
