Acupuncture Times Your guide to acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine and TCM — explore acupoints, herbs and formulas, plus the latest acupuncture research news.
Related Articles
Ge Gen Tang (葛根湯) releases exterior wind-cold and the muscle layer and generates fluids to relax the sinews; the principal formula for wind-cold with a stiff, rigid neck and upper back.
English Name
Kudzu Decoction
Classical Source
Shang Han Lun, c. 220 CE
Ingredients
Actions & Functions
- Releases exterior wind-cold and the muscle layer
- Relaxes the sinews and relieves a stiff neck and back
Indications
Wind-cold with a stiff, painful neck and upper back, chills and fever without sweating; also early dysentery with exterior signs.
Tongue & Pulse
Tongue: thin white coat. Pulse: floating and tight.
Modifications
With nausea, add Ban Xia.
Cautions & Contraindications
For wind-cold excess; not for exterior deficiency with sweating or wind-heat.
