【Source】

“Synopsis of Prescriptions of the Golden Cabinet”

 【Composition】

Fructus Aurantii Immaturus (Zhi Shi), Radix Paeoniae (Shao Yao), Radix Platycodi (Jie Geng)
(3)

 【Categorization by Ingredient Function】

<Tonifying Blood>: Radix Paeoniae (Shao Yao)

<Regulating Qi>: Fructus Aurantii Immaturus (Zhi Shi)

<Resolving Phlegm>: Radix Platycodi (Jie Geng)

【Formula Rationale】

Handian states: This formula consists of Fructus Aurantii Immaturus (Zhi Shi), Radix Paeoniae (Shao Yao), and Radix Platycodi (Jie Geng). Zhi Shi can relieve tension in the affected area and soften hardness. Radix Paeoniae (Shao Yao) cooperates with Zhi Shi to reduce tension and alleviate pain. Jie Geng prevents or drains pus. Pai Nong Tang (Pus-Discharging Decoction) is used either before Pai Nong San (in the very early stages of such swellings) or after Pai Nong San has significantly reduced the condition. Pai Nong Tang is a prescription that replaces the Zhi Shi and Radix Paeoniae (Shao Yao) of Pai Nong San with Fructus Jujubae (Da Zao), Radix Glycyrrhizae (Gan Cao), and Rhizoma Zingiberis Recens (Sheng Jiang). Da Zao and Gan Cao can alleviate urgency, and specifically when combined with Sheng Jiang, they enhance the absorption of other medicinals. The relationship between these two formulas is quite interesting, similar to that between Si Ni San (Frigid Extremities Powder) and Xiao Chai Hu Tang (Minor Bupleurum Decoction).

 【Functions】

Drains pus and stops pain.

 【Indications】

Various sores and carbuncles, boils, furuncles, intestinal carbuncles, suppurative swellings with pain, tension in the affected area (indicating hardness). For patients with sores presenting with chest and abdominal fullness and distention, if spitting sticky phlegm, or passing pus and blood in stools.

 【Modern Clinical Applications】

Lymphadenitis, subcutaneous abscess, tonsillitis, empyema (sinusitis), external otitis, hemorrhoids, perianal inflammation, mastitis.

 【Contraindications】

Generally not suitable for cold-type abscesses or chronic swellings.

 【Mnemonic】

Jí Zhǐ Shǎo (桔 – Jie Geng, 枳 – Zhi Shi, 芍 – Shao Yao).