【Source】

Synopsis of Prescriptions of the Golden Cabinet

 【Composition】

Ephedra (Ma Huang), prepared Licorice Root (Gan Cao), Coix Seed (Yi Yi Ren), Apricot Kernel (Xing Ren)
(4 ingredients)

 【Ingredient Categories】

<Tonifying Spleen and Middle Jiao>: Licorice Root (Gan Cao)

<Acrid-Warm to Release the Exterior>: Ephedra (Ma Huang)

<Promoting Diuresis and Draining Dampness>: Coix Seed (Yi Yi Ren)

<Relieving Cough and Calming Asthma>: Apricot Kernel (Xing Ren)

【Formula Explanation】

According to Han Dian: This formula is derived from Ma Xing Gan Shi Tang by removing Gypsum (Shi Gao) and adding Coix Seed (Yi Yi Ren). Coix Seed (Yi Yi Ren) can alleviate muscle tension, clear stagnation of “water toxins” (dampness/fluid retention), and exert analgesic effects. Therefore, the combination of Coix Seed (Yi Yi Ren) with Ephedra (Ma Huang) and Apricot Kernel (Xing Ren) is used to dispel pathogenic factors from muscles or joints and achieve pain relief. Licorice Root (Gan Cao) assists them, strengthening their medicinal effects.

 【Functions】

Induces sweating to release the exterior, dispels wind-dampness.

 【Indications】

Treats rheumatism, generalized body pain, and fever that worsens in the late afternoon.

 【Applicable Conditions】

Muscular rheumatism, joint rheumatism, neuralgia, warts, keratosis palmaris, dyshidrosis, frostbite, eczema, asthma.

 【Mnemonic】

Ma Xing Gan Shi Tang (minus Gypsum (Shi Gao)) + Coix Seed (Yi Yi Ren). The formula name reflects its ingredients.