This is a modern empirical formula that is based on Cang Er Zi San (Xanthium Powder Formula), which was first recorded in the 'Formulary of Life Benefiting Formulas', 1253. The original dispels pathogenic Wind (both Wind-Heat and Wind-Cold) that has lodged in the nasal passages and thus alleviates nasal discharge as well as nasal obstruction. Thus, it provides a suitable base formula for the treatment of acute rhinitis ‐ both infective and allergic types. The base formula has been enhanced with the inclusion of seven additional herbal ingredients.
- Morus leaf (sang ye) and Chrysanthemum flower (ju hua): cooling diaphoretics
- Schizonepeta flowering tops (jing jie), Saposhnikovia root (fang feng) and Cinnamomum cassia, twig (gui zhi): warming diaphoretics.
- Scutellaria root (huang qin): clears Heat from the nasal passages and has a marked anti-allergic and anti-inflammatory actions.
- Anemone rhizome (shi chang pu): unblocks the nasal passages and dries the nasal secretions.
It should be noted that this formulation has been specifically developed to address the distressing symptoms of acute rhinitis; not to treat the various underlying causes. Such causes generally include insecurity of the defence Qi, deficiency of the Spleen Qi, retained Phlegm-Damp, retained fluids, and Kidney deficiency. Generally, these factors should be treated after the resolution of the acute symptoms.
TCM ACTIONS
Releases exterior Wind-Cold and Wind-Heat, unblocks the nasal passages, reduces swelling and alleviates pain.
TCM SYNDROMES
Nasal congestion and discharge due to exogenous Wind-Cold (with some degree of transformation into Heat).
INDICATIONS
Hayfever, acute rhinitis
SIGNS & SYMPTOMS
(Key clinical features in bold)
-
Nasal congestion with sneezing
- Copious clear or white discharge
- Itchy eyes
- Lacrimation
- Photophobia
- Frontal headache or tenderness over the sinuses
- Tongue may be pale or normal
- Pulse floating
