This formula is one of several variants of Bao He Wan (Preserve Harmony Pill) that were devised, along with the original, by Zhu Dan-xi (1281-1358) and recorded in the Dan Xi Xin Fa (Dan-xi’s Experiential Therapy) to treat various disorders that centred on the retention of undigested food, i.e. Food Stagnation. The idea behind this formula’s design was to reduce Food Stagnation by including herbs that assist in the digestion of various food groups (i.e. starches, fats and meats) and also counter the effects of excessive alcohol consumption. In addition, the formula addresses some of the consequences of Food Stagnation: bloating, belching, nausea and possibly vomiting, gastric irritation, loose stools or diarrhoea.
The formula has a very broad range of application, as either a base formula or adjuvant, in the treatment of gastrointestinal disorders including chronic diarrhoea, dysentery, ascites, abdominal mass, as well as various pediatric disorders.
This particular variant is used for those cases that have resulted from deficiency of the Spleen and Stomach with a reduced ability to cope with normal food requirements. Thus, it may be effectively used in the short term for overindulgence or in the medium to long term for more severe disorders, generally in combination with another formula.
The Sun Herbal formula is enhanced with the addition of Atractylodes rhizome (bai zhu), Citrus fruit (zhi ke) and Amomum fruit (sha ren). Atractylodes rhizome (bai zhu) tonifies the Spleen Qi and dries Damp; Citrus fruit (zhi ke) and Amomum fruit (sha ren) regulate the Qi to reduce epigastric or abdominal distension and promote intestinal peristaltic movement.
- Traditionally used in Chinese medicine to harmonise the middle-burner (spleen and stomach)
- Traditionally used in Chinese medicine to regulate Qi
- Traditionally used in Chinese medicine to promote digestion and remove food stagnation
- Traditionally used in Chinese medicine to invigorate spleen
