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Written by: Warm TCM
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In the field of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), there is a well-known formula called Si Jun Zi Tang (Four Gentlemen Decoction). This name is quite fitting, as in ancient times, being given the title of ‘gentleman’ was a high form of recognition, applicable to both people and plants.
Si Jun Zi Tang was established during the Song Dynasty and is known for its ability to tonify Qi and strengthen the spleen. The term ‘gentleman’ suggests that this formula tonifies Qi without being overly harsh.
A good formula serves as a solid foundation; if it cannot be built upon, it would be a pity. Thus, later practitioners added two layers to Si Jun Zi Tang: the first layer includes Chen Pi (Tangerine Peel) and Ban Xia (Pinellia), while the second layer includes Mu Xiang (Aucklandia) and Sha Ren (Amomum).
The final formula is as follows: Bai Zhu (White Atractylodes), Fu Ling (Poria), Dang Shen (Codonopsis), Gan Cao (Licorice), Chen Pi, Ban Xia, Mu Xiang, and Sha Ren.
This formula is no longer called Si Jun Zi Tang, but rather Xiang Sha Liu Jun Zi Tang (Six Gentlemen Decoction with Aromatic and Digestive Herbs). The team has expanded, and so has its efficacy; it now not only tonifies Qi and strengthens the spleen but also resolves dampness and transforms phlegm.
When this formula is made into a Chinese patent medicine, it is called Xiang Sha Liu Jun Wan (Six Gentlemen Pills with Aromatic and Digestive Herbs). Remember, this medicine has the functions of strengthening the spleen, benefiting Qi, and transforming phlegm. It is particularly suitable for those with spleen Qi deficiency and internal phlegm-dampness.
1. When taking tonics, how can one avoid the issue of ‘deficiency not receiving tonics’? The answer is to combine with Xiang Sha Liu Jun Wan. Those with internal phlegm-dampness should also take some Xiang Sha Liu Jun Wan.
In TCM, there is a phenomenon called ‘deficiency not receiving tonics’, where excessive heat is a manifestation of this issue. Severe cases may even cause discomfort from consuming red dates or longan. What is the reason? It is due to spleen and stomach deficiency.
Some herbs, such as Shu Di Huang (Rehmannia), are good for tonifying, but they have a drawback of being overly cloying. To transform them, a strong spleen and stomach are needed. For those with spleen and stomach deficiency, when we see Shu Di Huang in a formula, it does not mean it cannot be taken; Sha Ren and Chen Pi can resolve the cloying nature of Shu Di Huang, thus leading us back to Xiang Sha Liu Jun Wan.
Another situation is when internal phlegm-dampness obstructs the absorption of medicinal properties; Xiang Sha Liu Jun Wan should also be considered.
2. For those who experience excessive phlegm in the morning; coughing phlegm throughout the day, where phlegm that can be coughed out is called ‘visible phlegm’, and phlegm that cannot be coughed out is called ‘invisible phlegm’; excessive phlegm after meals, especially after consuming spicy or stimulating foods. Those experiencing these three conditions can use Xiang Sha Liu Jun Wan for regulation.
Many people feel that phlegm-dampness is particularly stubborn and difficult to eliminate completely.
This is because most modern individuals have spleen and stomach deficiency. The manifestations of spleen deficiency are not limited to fatigue, lack of energy, and low spirits; it can also lead to phlegm production. TCM considers the spleen to be the source of phlegm production, and phlegm-dampness results from the spleen’s inability to transform fluids. The saying ‘stopping the boiling by lifting the pot’ suggests that it is better to address the root cause; if we can resolve phlegm while also strengthening the spleen, we can cut off the source of phlegm-dampness.
Of course, during medication, one should avoid greasy and spicy foods; otherwise, taking the medicine while indulging in rich foods will render the treatment ineffective.
For those with internal heat, indicated by a red tongue with a yellow greasy coating, Er Miao Wan (Two Marvels Pills) can be used in conjunction.
3. Those with abdominal bloating and diarrhea can take some Xiang Sha Liu Jun Wan.
A friend of mine often experiences abdominal bloating after meals.
Why is it particularly easy to bloat after eating? Because the spleen is responsible for transformation and transportation, which in TCM is called ‘yun hua’, while in Western medicine it is called ‘digestion’. The spleen and stomach are responsible for transforming the food we consume into essential substances, which is their primary function.
To put it simply, when we leave the dining table satisfied, the spleen and stomach roll up their sleeves to get busy; after meals, they are at their busiest. If we frequently alternate between hunger and fullness, or indiscriminately consume both cold and hot foods, the spleen and stomach will become increasingly weak. Once the spleen is deficient, it will not actively engage in its work, and food cannot be transformed into essential substances, leading to bloating.
What about diarrhea?
It is because Qi has a consolidating effect; it is like a pair of hands firmly grasping the food consumed. When Qi is deficient, the grip loosens, and the food is still in the process of digestion, sliding out through the intestines, often accompanied by undigested food residues.
4. If there are symptoms of belching and acid reflux, Xiang Sha Liu Jun Wan can also be prepared.
Acid reflux occurs because the stomach Qi does not descend; the stomach’s descent is considered proper. Mu Xiang, Sha Ren, and Chen Pi can move Qi and help the stomach Qi descend.
In ancient times, it was believed that acid reflux could also be due to excessive liver fire, and poor emotions can affect the spleen and stomach. This is known as ‘Liver Wood Overcoming Spleen Earth’. At this time, we can stick out our tongues to check; if the tongue is pale with a white coating, Xiang Sha Liu Jun Wan is appropriate. If the tongue is red with a yellow coating, there is a Chinese patent medicine called Zuo Jin Wan (Left Metal Pills) that can help soothe the liver, harmonize the stomach, and clear heat.
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