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Tong Xie Yao Fang (痛瀉要方) spreads the Liver and strengthens the Spleen; for recurrent diarrhoea with abdominal pain from the Liver overacting on a weak Spleen (a key IBS pattern).
English Name
Important Formula for Painful Diarrhoea
Classical Source
Dan Xi Xin Fa, 1481
Ingredients
Actions & Functions
- Strengthens the Spleen and spreads the Liver
- Stops painful diarrhoea
Indications
Liver-Spleen disharmony: recurrent diarrhoea preceded by abdominal pain, with the pain relieved after the bowel movement, often triggered by stress.
Tongue & Pulse
Tongue: thin white coat. Pulse: wiry and moderate (or wiry and weak).
Modifications
With chronic diarrhoea, add Sheng Ma; with Spleen-yang deficiency, warming herbs.
Cautions & Contraindications
For Liver-Spleen pattern; not for damp-heat dysentery.
