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Cang Er Zi San (蒼耳子散) dispels wind and opens the nasal passages; the principal formula for nasal congestion, sinusitis and rhinitis with frontal headache.
English Name
Xanthium Powder
Classical Source
Ji Sheng Fang, 1253
Ingredients
- Cang Er Zi & Xin Yi Hua (open the nose) – chief
- Bai Zhi (relieve frontal headache); Bo He; taken with green tea
Actions & Functions
- Dispels wind and opens the nasal passages
- Relieves nasal congestion and frontal headache
Indications
Wind (often wind-heat) nasal disorders: nasal congestion and discharge, sinusitis, rhinitis, and a dull frontal headache with reduced sense of smell.
Tongue & Pulse
Tongue: thin white or yellow coat. Pulse: floating.
Modifications
With marked heat, add Huang Qin and Yu Xing Cao; with wind-cold, add Fang Feng.
Cautions & Contraindications
Cang Er Zi is mildly toxic - do not exceed the dose.
