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Da Chai Hu Tang (大柴胡湯) harmonises the lesser yang while purging interior heat excess; for a combined shaoyang and yang-ming (organ) pattern.
English Name
Major Bupleurum Decoction
Classical Source
Shang Han Lun, c. 220 CE
Ingredients
Actions & Functions
- Harmonises the lesser yang (shaoyang)
- Drains interior heat excess (yang-ming)
Indications
Combined shaoyang-yangming excess: alternating chills and fever, fullness and pain of the chest and hypochondrium and epigastrium, a bitter taste, nausea or vomiting, irritability, and constipation. Widely used for gallbladder and biliary disorders.
Tongue & Pulse
Tongue: yellow coat. Pulse: wiry and forceful (or rapid).
Modifications
For gallstones and jaundice, add Yin Chen Hao and Jin Qian Cao.
Cautions & Contraindications
Drains downward; contraindicated in pregnancy and in deficiency without interior excess heat.
