Gan Cao Radix Glycyrrhizae uralensis 3 gExplanation
- Long Dan Cao is the emperor herb in this prescription as it clears Liver-Fire. It is
particularly effective at clearing Liver-Fire in the head and ears and is therefore suitable
for headaches. It also clears Damp-Heat in the Lower Burner and this is another use of
this prescription. - Huang Qin and Shan Zhi Zi clear Liver-Heat and are the minister herbs to help Long
Dan Cao. They also clear Damp-Heat. - Ze Xie, Mu Tong and Che Qian Zi are assistant herbs. They are cool and have a diuretic
action to expel Damp-Heat. Besides clearing Damp-Heat in the Lower Burner, they are
included to drain Fire via urination. - Sheng Di and Dang Gui are included to nourish Yin, so as to prevent injury of Yin from
Fire. - Chai Hu is used as a messenger herb to direct the prescription to the Liver channel.
- Gan Cao harmonizes.
Herbs
- Long Dan Cao Radix Gentianae scabrae is the main herb to clear Liver-Fire. It is
especially suited to the treatment of headaches as it acts on the area around the ears and
eyes. - Xia Ku Cao Spica Prunellae vulgaris clears Liver-Fire and affects the head.
- Jue Ming Zi Semen Cassiae torae clears Liver-Fire and affects the eyes. It is therefore
suitable for Liver-Fire headaches around one eye.
Patent Remedies
Long Dan Xie Gan Wan
(Gentiana Draining the Liver Pill)
This pill has the same ingredients and functions as the above prescription.