[Source]

From the “Synopsis of Prescriptions of the Golden Chamber,” Volume Lower.

 [Composition]

Rhubarb, Dried Ginger, Croton Seed Frost
(3)

 [Categorization]

<Purgative>: Rhubarb

<Warming the Interior>: Dried Ginger

<Violent Purgative and Water-Expelling>: Croton Seed Frost

[Explanation of the Formula]

From “Medical Formulas”: This is a formula for the Hand and Foot Yangming meridians. (1) Rhubarb: Bitter and cold, it clears heat and resolves stagnation. (2) Croton Seed Frost: Acrid and hot, it clears cold and resolves stagnation. (3) Adding Dried Ginger: Acrid and dispersing, it promotes smooth circulation. The three herbs are potent and severe; they should only be used in emergencies, hence the name “Bei Ji” (for emergencies). From “Shan Bu”: Ke Yunbo said, for constipation, one must distinguish between Yang stagnation and Yin stagnation. Yang stagnation is treated with Cheng Qi decoctions, a laxative. Yin stagnation is treated with Bei Ji. This is the formula for Bai San.

 [Functions]

Drives out cold accumulations and promotes bowel movements.

 [Indications]

Cold accumulations and masses, abdominal distension and pain, constipation, severe cases with shortness of breath, lockjaw, sudden collapse, without signs of heat or deficiency. This is an emergency formula for warming and purging cold accumulations. From “Medical Formulas”: (1) Treats food stagnation in the stomach and intestines, uneven cold and heat, abdominal distension, shortness of breath, and severe pain, to the point of near death. (2) Also treats sudden shock from evil influences and other acute conditions.

 [Applications]

Intestinal obstruction (in cases of cold stagnation), chronic diarrhea, food stagnation, etc.

 [Contraindications]

Not to be taken by pregnant women. Bei Ji Wan is a potent herb for treating cold stagnation and masses. If a patient with a cold-inducing disease has heat that has entered the stomach, with a yellow or black, cracked tongue coating, and red, dry lips and mouth, accidental use will be fatal.

 [Mnemonic]

Climbing a mountain, I brought big dried beans (Da Dou Gan) – these three items can be used in emergencies. #

 [Modifications]

If Dried Ginger and Rhubarb are removed from this formula and Fritillary Bulb and Platycodon Root are added, it becomes San Wu Bai San from “Treatise on Cold Damage.” It is indicated for cold stagnation and phlegm-water accumulation in the upper and middle Jiao, presenting as cold stagnation and fullness of the chest.