- Ban Xia is added to resolve Phlegm which might derive from Qi deficiency. In this
respect it is coordinated with Fu Ling. Ban Xia also resolves any Phlegm that might mist
the Mind: in this respect it is coordinated with Yuan Zhi which also opens the Mind's
orifices. - Rou Gui is here to stimulate the production of Qi and Blood, which is one of its
functions. It is added also to attract any Empty-Heat that there might be downwards
towards its source, i.e. towards the Kidneys. - Gan Cao harmonizes.
This formula is specific to treat any mental and emotional effect of Heart-Blood deficiency, such
as insomnia (difficulty in falling asleep), palpitations, mild anxiety and poor memory. Other
manifestations would include a dull-pale complexion, a Pale-Thin tongue and a Choppy pulse.
Mental-Emotional Pattern
Fear and worry may weaken Heart-Blood and cause this condition. This person would be pale
with a dull complexion, the eyes would look anxious and rather dull and he or she would be
fearful, mildly anxious and vaguely depressed. In this case, the manifestations of an unsettled
Mind (anxiety and agitation) would be rather mild as there is only deficiency of Blood with no
Empty-Heat. He or she would also be very eager to please other people and members of his or
her family. Due to women's propensity for Blood deficiency, this condition is much more
common in women. In fact, it may also arise from loss of Blood in childbirth. The loss of Blood
from the Directing and Penetrating vessels during childbirth may affect the Heart, also due to its
connection with the uterus via the Uterus-Vessel (Bao-Mai). When Heart-Blood is weakened the
Mind is deprived of its residence and becomes fearful and anxious.
Variations
- If there is severe insomnia add Long Yan Rou Arillus Euphoriae longanae which
nourishes Heart-Blood and calms the Mind.
Patent Remedies
Bai Zi Yang Xin Wan
(Biota Nourishing the Heart Pill)
This pill has the same ingredients as the above decoction with the addition of Zhu Sha
Cinnabaris. It tonifies Spleen-Qi, nourishes Heart-Blood and calms the Mind. When the Mind is
restless from a deficiency of Spleen and Heart, this is an excellent remedy.