Hou Po Wen Zhong Tang (Magnolia Bark Decoction to Warm the Middle)

Magnolia Bark Decoction to Warm the Middle

Nei Wai Shang Bian Huo Lun, 1247

• Hou Po – chief; Cao Dou Kou, Gan Jiang (warm/dry)
• Chen Pi, Mu Xiang (move qi); Fu Ling; Gan Cao, Sheng Jiang

• Promotes the movement of qi and warms the middle
• Dries dampness and relieves distension

Cold-damp with qi stagnation in the middle burner: epigastric and abdominal distension and pain, a cold sensation relieved by warmth, poor appetite, and fatigue.

Tongue: white greasy coat. Pulse: deep and wiry (or slow).

With marked cold, increase Gan Jiang.

Warming and drying; not for damp-heat or yin deficiency.