Tao He Cheng Qi Tang Granules

This formula directs the qi to eliminate accumulation and stasis. It is designed to address blood buildup (xu xue) in the lower burner caused by blood stasis and heat. According to the Shang han lun, this condition results from the transmission of an external pathogenic influence into the lower burner. The stagnant blood and heat obstruct the lower burner, leading to acute abdominal pain. The accumulation of blood disrupts the function of the Bladder qi, leading to incontinence. Because the heat resides at the blood level, not the qi level, the feverishness occurs predominantly at night. The Heart governs the blood and is responsible for the clarity of the spirit. Here, retained heat rises and disturbs the spirit, producing abnormal manifestations such as delirious speech, irritability, restlessness, and thirst, or in severe cases, manic behavior. Furthermore, blood accumulation and stasis in the lower abdomen hinder circulation, which can result in amenorrhea or dysmenorrhea in women.