Folio Bound VIEWS - Chinese Medicine

(Overstepping Maidservant Decoction plus Atractylodes)

Ma Huang Herba Ephedrae 9 g

Shi Gao Gypsum fibrosum 18 g

Sheng Jiang Rhizoma Zingiberis officinalis recens 9 g

Gan Cao Radix Glycyrrhizae uralensis 5 g

Da Zao Fructus Ziziphi jujubae 5 dates

Bai Zhu Rhizoma Atractylodis macrocephalae 9 g

Explanation

This is a variation of the formula Yue Bi Tang which, in itself is a variation of Ma Xing Shi Gan
Tang Ephedra-Prunus-Gypsum-Glycyrrhiza Decoction without Xing Ren.

The formula Yue Bi Tang is specific to release the Exterior, expel Wind-Water and resolve
oedema. The addition of Bai Zhu gives it a stronger effect in resolving oedema.

• Ma Huang releases the Exterior, expels Wind, restores the Lung's dispersing function,
  regulates the Water passages and resolves oedema.


• Shi Gao clears Heat. This formula can therefore be used for the intermediate stage
  between the Greater Yang and Yang Ming patterns.


• Sheng Jiang helps Ma Huang to expel Wind-Cold and also to resolve oedema.


• Da Zao, in combination with Sheng Jiang, regulates Defensive and Nutritive Qi and
  therefore helps to resolve oedema from the space between skin and muscles.


• Gan Cao harmonizes.


• Bai Zhu tonifies Qi, dries Dampness and resolves oedema.

The "overstepping maidservant" in the curious name of this decoction could signify the fluids
overflowing into the space between skin and muscles. Other books translate this as Maidservant
from Yue Decoction, "Yue" being southern China.

Variations

• To enhance the oedema-resolving effect, add Fu Ping Herba Lemnae seu Spirodelae, Ze
  Xie Rhizoma Alismatis orientalis and Fu Ling Sclerotium Poriae cocos.