whilst dryness is a lack of physiological fluids. In fact, in certain cases, chronic Phlegm can even
lead to dryness, precisely because body fluids accumulate in a pathological way.
This prescription is therefore for very chronic cases of tiredness due to Phlegm and is more
frequently used in old people. The main manifestations would include a cough with scanty
sputum which is difficult to expectorate and a dry throat.
- Chuan Bei Mu is the emperor herb to resolve Phlegm from the Lungs, open the chest
and stop cough. - Gua Lou is the minister herb to clear Heat, resolve Phlegm, moisten dryness and open
the diaphragm. - Tian Hua Fen is the assistant herb to clear Heat, promote fluids and moisten dryness.
- Fu Ling and Chen Pi help the other herbs to resolve Phlegm by draining Dampness.
- Jie Geng makes Lung-Qi descend, resolves Phlegm and stops cough.
Dao Tan Tang
(Conducting Phlegm Decoction)
Ban Xia Rhizoma Pinelliae ternatae 6 g
Dan Nan Xing Rhizoma Arisaematis praeparata 3 g
Zhi Shi Fructus Citri aurantii immaturus 3 g
Fu Ling Sclerotium Poriae cocos 3 g
Chen Pi Pericarpium Citri reticulatae 3 g
Zhi Gan Cao Radix Glycyrrhizae uralensis praeparata 2 g
Sheng Jiang Rhizoma Zingiberis officinalis recens 3 gExplanation
This prescription resolves Phlegm, moves Qi and resolves stagnation. It is particularly indicated
when Phlegm and Qi are stagnating in the Middle Burner with symptoms of stuffiness and
fullness of chest and epigastrium, nausea, poor appetite and cough.
- Ban Xia and Nan Xing resolve Phlegm.
- Zhi Shi moves Qi.