These herbs harmonize blood, promote blood circulation, resolve blood stagnation, reduce swelling, and stop pain. Blood stagnation has various causes, and herbs from other categories should be added to the prescriptions based upon these causes. If blood stagnation is due to contraction from cold and Qi stagnation, herbs that warm the interior and dispel cold should be combined. If it is caused by damage to the Yin and blood due to excessive heat, herbs that clear heat and cool blood should be added to the formula. If the stagnation is due to invasion of pathogenic wind-damp, herbs that dispel wind-damp should be added.
Qi and blood are closely related in the body; circulation of Qi promotes circulation of blood, and stagnation of Qi leads to stagnation of blood. In using herbs that invigorate blood and resolve blood stagnation, it is necessary to add herbs that promote Qi circulation to enhance the therapeutic effect.
These herbs should be used with caution during excessive menstrual flow or pregnancy.
Prescriptions for activating blood invigorate blood circulation and remove blood stagnation. They are indicated for blood accumulation and blood stasis syndrome due to stagnant blood in the viscera or meridians and collaterals.
It is important to note that this group of Prescriptions belongs to a broader category of “Blood Prescriptions,” referring to herbal combinations which are chiefly composed of herbs that regulate and promote blood circulation and also, importantly, arrest bleeding (see “H. Herbs and Herbal Prescriptions That Stop Bleeding” for herbal prescriptions of this particular category). These prescriptions are indicated for syndromes of blood stagnation and hemorrhage. Blood circulates incessantly in the vessels, but once the flow of blood is impeded, stagnation will be turned into stasis, and blood will overflow from the vessels.
Herbs
(i) Chuan Xiong rhizome (Chuan Xiong, 
)
Pharmaceutical Name: Radix Chuan Xiong
Part Used: Rhizome
Properties: Pungent and warm
Meridians: Liver, gall bladder, and pericardium
| Functions: | (a) | To invigorate blood and promote Qi circulation; |
| (b) | To expel wind and stop pain. |
Applications:
(a)Blood and Qi stagnation: (1) irregular menstruation, dysmenorrhea, and amenorrhea — Chuan Xiong rhizome (Chuan Xiong, 
) is used with Chinese Angelica root (Dang Gui, 
), Red peony (Chi Shao, 
), Cyperus tuber (Xiang Fu, 
), and Motherwort (Yi Mu Cao, 
); (2) difficult labor — Chuan Xiong rhizome (Chuan Xiong, 
) is used with Cyathula root (Niu Xi, 
) and Tortoise plastron (Gui Ban, 
); (3) postpartum abdominal pain — Chuan Xiong rhizome (Chuan Xiong, 
) is used with Motherwort (Yi Mu Cao, 
), Peach seed (Tao Ren, 
), and Safflower (Hong Hua, 
); (4) hypochondriac pain — Chuan Xiong rhizome (Chuan Xiong, 
) is used with Bupleurum root (Chai Hu, 
), Cyperus tuber (Xiang Fu, 
), and Curcuma root (Yu Jin, 
); (5) numbness of the limbs — Chuan Xiong rhizome (Chuan Xiong, 
) is used with Red peony (Chi Shao, 
), Earthworm (Di Long, 
) and Spatholobus stem (Ji Xue Teng, 
)
(b)Headache: (1) wind-cold headache — Chuan Xiong rhizome (Chuan Xiong, 
) is used with Dahurian angelica root (Bai Zhi, 
) and Asarum herb (Xi Xin, 
); (2) wind-heat headache — Chuan Xiong rhizome (Chuan Xiong, 
) is used with Chrysanthemum flower (Ju Hua, 
), Gypsum (Shi Gao, 
), and White-stiff silkworm (Bai Jiang Can, 
); (3) wind-damp headache — Chuan Xiong rhizome (Chuan Xiong, 
) is used with Notopterygium root (Qiang Huo, 
), Ligusticum root (Gao Ben, 
), and Ledebouriella (Fang Feng, 
); (4) headache due to blood stagnation — Chuan Xiong rhizome (Chuan Xiong, 
) is used with Red peony (Chi Shao, 
), Red sage root (Dan Shen, 
) and Safflower (Hong Hua, 
); (5) headache due to deficient blood — Chuan Xiong rhizome (Chuan Xiong, 
) is used with Chinese Angelica root (Dang Gui, 
) and White peony root (Bai Shao, 
).
(c)Wind-damp obstruction syndrome (painful joints) Chuan Xiong rhizome (Chuan Xiong, 
) is used with Notopterygium root (Qiang Huo, 
), Pubescent Angelica root (Du Huo, 
), Ledebouriella (Fang Feng, 
), and Mulberry twigs (Sang Zhi, 
).
(d)Dosage: 3–9 g.
Cautions and Contraindications: This herb is contraindicated during hemorrhagic diseases and during profuse menstrual flow.
(ii) Frankincense (Ru Xiang, 
)
Pharmaceutical Name: Resina oliani; Olibanum
Part Used: Resin
Properties: Pungent, bitter, and warm
Meridians: Heart, liver, and spleen
| Functions: | (a) | To invigorate blood and stop pain; |
| (b) | To reduce swelling. |
Applications:
(a)Pains caused by blood stagnation: (1) dysmenorrhea — Frankincense (Ru Xiang, 
) is used with Chinese Angelica root (Dang Gui, 
), Chuan Xiong rhizome (Chuan Xiong, 
), and Cyperus tuber (Xiang Fu, 
); (2) stomach pain — Frankincense (Ru Xiang, 
) is used with Sichuan chinaberry (Chuan Lian Zi, 
) and Corydalis tuber (Yan Hu Suo, 
); (3) general pain or joint pain due to invasion of wind-cold-damp — Frankincense (Ru Xiang, 
) is used with Notopterygium root (Qiang Huo, 
), Futokadsura stem (Hai Feng Teng, 
), Large-leaf gentian root (Qin Jiao, 
), Chinese Angelica root (Dang Gui, 
) and Chuan Xiong rhizome (Chuan Xiong, 
); (4) pain caused by external injury — Frankincense (Ru Xiang, 
) is used with Myrrh (Mo Yao, 
), Dragon’s blood (Xue Jie, 
); and Safflower (Hong Hua, 
); (5) pain and swelling of carbuncles and furuncles — Frankincense (Ru Xiang, 
) is used with Myrrh (Mo Yao, 
), Red peony (Chi Shao, 
), and Honeysuckle flower (Jin Yin Hua, 
).
(b)Boils and ulcers. The powders of Frankincense (Ru Xiang, 
) and Myrrh (Mo Yao, 
) are applied externally. The combination is called Haifu San.
(c)Dosage: 3–10 g.
Cautions and Contraindications: This herb is contraindicated during pregnancy.
(iii) Myrrh (Mo Yao, 
)
Pharmaceutical Name: Myrrha; Resina myrrhae
Part Used: Resin
Properties: Bitter and neutral
Meridians: Heart, liver, and spleen
| Functions: | (a) | To invigorate blood and stop pain; |
| (b) | To reduce swelling and promote healing. |
Applications:
(a)The indications and combinations of Myrrh (Mo Yao, 
) are the same as those for Frankincense (Ru Xiang, 
).
(b)Dosage: 3–10 g.
Cautions and ContraIndications: This herb is contraindicated during pregnancy.
(iv) Corydalis tuber (Yan Hu Suo, 
)
Pharmaceutical Name: Rhizoma corydalis
Part Used: Rhizome
Properties: Pungent, bitter, and warm
Meridians: Heart, liver, and spleen
| Functions: | (a) | To invigorate blood and promote Qi circulation; |
| (b) | To stop pain. |
Application:
(a)Pain due to Qi and blood stagnation. Corydalis tuber (Yan Hu Suo,
) is used with Sichuan chinaberry (Chuan Lian Zi, 
), Chinese Angelica root (Dang Gui, 
), Chuan Xiong rhizome (Chuan Xiong, 
), Frankincense (Ru Xiang, 
) and Myrrh (Mo Yao, 
).
(b)Dosage: 3–9 g.
Note: Frying with vinegar enhances this herb’s ability to stop pain.
(v) Curcuma root (Yu Jin, 
)
Pharmaceutical Name: Radix Curcumae
Part Used: Tuberous root
Properties: Pungent, bitter, and cold
Meridians: Heart, liver, and gall bladder
| Functions: | (a) | To invigorate blood and stop pain; |
| (b) | To promote Qi circulation and release stagnation; | |
| (c) | To cool blood and clear heat in the heart; | |
| (d) | To relieve jaundice and facilitate gall bladder function. |
Applications:
(a)Qi and blood stagnation: (1) pain in the chest, abdominal, or hypochondriac region — Curcuma root (Yu Jin, 
) is used with Red sage root (Dan Shen, 
), Cyperus tuber (Xiang Fu, 
), Bupleurum root (Chai Hu, 
), and Bitter orange (Zhi Qiao, 
); (2) dysmenorrhea due to Qi and blood stagnation — Curcuma root (Yu Jin, 
) is used with Bupleurum root (Chai Hu, 
), Cyperus tuber (Xiang Fu, 
), White peony root (Bai Shao, 
), and Chinese Angelica root (Dang Gui, 
).
(b)Mental derangement due to attack of interior damp–warmth. Curcuma root (Yu Jin, 
) is used with Grass-leaved sweetflag (Shi Chang Pu, 
)
(c)Jaundice due to interior accumulation of damp-heat. Curcuma root (Yu Jin, 
) is used with Oriental wormwood (Yin Chen Hao, 
) and Cape jasmine (Zhi Zi,
)
(d)Dosage: 3–9 g.
Cautions and Contraindications: This herb should not be combined with Cloves (Ding Xiang, 
)
(vi) Turmeric (Jiang Huang, 
)
Pharmaceutical Name: Rhizoma Curcumae longae
Part Used: Rhizome
Properties: Pungent, bitter, and warm
Meridians: Liver and spleen
| Functions: | (a) | To invigorate blood and promote Qi circulation; |
| (b) | To promote menstruation and stop pain. |
Applications:
(a)Qi and blood stagnation, manifested as chest and hypochondriac pain, amenorrhea, and abdominal pain. Turmeric (Jiang Huang, 
) is used with Chinese Angelica root (Dang Gui, 
), Curcuma root (Yu Jin, 
), Cyperus tuber (Xiang Fu, 
), and Corydalis tuber (Yan Hu Suo, 
).
(b)Wind-damp obstruction syndrome, manifested as neck rigidity, shoulder pain, and motor impairment of the limbs. Turmeric (Jiang Huang, 
) is used with Notopterygium root (Qiang Huo, 
) and Chinese Angelica root (Dang Gui, 
).
(c)Dosage: 3–9 g.
(vii) Zedoary (E Zhu, 
)
Pharmaceutical Name: Rhizoma Zedoariae
Part Used: Rhizome
Properties: Pungent and bitter
Meridians: Liver and spleen
| Functions: | (a) | To invigorate blood and move stagnation; |
| (b) | To promote Qi circulation and stop pain. |
Applications:
(a)Qi and blood stagnation, manifested as abdominal pain, amenorrhea, and abdominal or epigastric masses. Zedoary (E Zhu, 
) is used with Burreed tuber (San Leng, 
).
(b)Dysfunction of the spleen in transforming and transporting, manifested as food retention, epigastric and abdominal distension, fullness and pain. Zedoary (E Zhu, 
) is used with Burreed tuber (San Leng, 
), Hawthorn fruit (Shan Zha, 
), Costus root (Mu Xiang, 
) and Immature bitter orange (Zhi Shi, 
).
(c)Dosage: 6–9 g.
Cautions and Contraindications: This herb is contraindicated during pregnancy and during profuse menstrual flow.
(viii) Burreed tuber (San Leng, 
)
Pharmaceutical Name: Rhizoma Sparganii
Part Used: Rhizome
Properties: Bitter and neutral Meridians: Liver and spleen
| Functions: | (a) | To invigorate blood and move stagnation; |
| (b) | To promote Qi circulation and stop pain. |
Applications:
(a)Qi and blood stagnation, manifested as amenorrhea, abdominal pain, and epigastric or abdominal masses. Burreed tuber (San Leng, 
) is used with Zedoary (E Zhu, 
)
(b)Food retention and Qi stagnation, manifested as epigastric and abdominal distension and pain. Burreed tuber (San Leng, 
) is used with Zedoary (E Zhu, 
), Green tangerine peel (Qing Pi, 
), and Germinated barley (Mai Ya, 
).
(c)Dosage: 4.5–9 g.
Cautions and Contraindications: Administration with vinegar enhances the function of stopping pain. This herb is contraindicated during pregnancy and during profuse menstrual flow.
(ix) Red sage root (Dan Shen, 
)
Pharmaceutical Name: Radix Salviae militiorrhizae
Part Used: Root
Properties: Bitter and slightly cold Meridians: Heart, pericardium, and liver
| Functions: | (a) | To invigorate blood and move stagnation; |
| (b) | To cool blood and reduce carbuncles; | |
| (c) | To clear heat in the heart and soothe irritability. |
Applications:
(a)Internal blood stagnation, manifested as irregular menstruation, amenorrhea, and abdominal pain or postpartum abdominal pain. Red sage root (Dan Shen, 
) is used with Motherwort (Yi Mu Cao, 
), Peach seed (Tao Ren, 
), Safflower (Hong Hua, 
), and Chinese Angelica root (Dang Gui, 
).
(b)Qi and blood stagnation, manifested as cardiac pain, abdominal pain, or epigastric pain. Red sage root (Dan Shen, 
) is used with Amomum fruit (Sha Ren, 
), and Sandalwood (Tan Xiang, 
).
(c)Blood stagnation, manifested as general pain or joint pain. Red sage root (Dan Shen, 
) is used with Chinese Angelica root (Dang Gui, 
), Chuan Xiong rhizome (Chuan Xiong, 
), and Safflower (Hong Hua, 
).
(d)Carbuncles, furuncles, and swellings. Red sage root (Dan Shen, 
) is used with Honeysuckle flower (Jin Yin Hua, 
), Forsythia fruit (Lian Qiao, 
), and Frankincense (Ru Xiang, 
).
(e)Febrile disease with pathogenic wind invading the nutritive level, manifested as high fever, irritability, dull maculopapule, and a red or deep-red tongue proper with a scanty coating. Red sage root (Dan Shen, 
) is used with Fresh Rehmannia root (Sheng Di Huang, 
), Scrophularia (Xuan Shen, 
), and Bamboo leaf (Zhu Ye, 
).
(f)Deficiency of nutritive blood with internal heat, manifested as palpitations, irritability, and insomnia. Red sage root (Dan Shen, 
) is used with Wild jujube seed (Suan Zao Ren, 
) and Multiflower knotweed (Ye Jiao Teng, 
).
(g)Dosage: 9–15 g.
Cautions and Contraindications: Blood invigoration is enhanced by frying with wine. Do not combine with the herb Black false hellebore (Li Lu, 
).
(x) Motherwort (Yi Mu Cao, 
)
Pharmaceutical Name: Herba Leonuri
Part Used: The entire plant
Properties: Pungent, bitter, and slightly cold
Meridians: Heart, liver, and urinary bladder
| Functions: | (a) | To invigorate blood and move stagnation; |
| (b) | To promote urination and reduce edema. |
Applications:
(a)Blood stagnation manifested as irregular menstruation, dysmenorrhea, amenorrhea, postpartum abdominal pain, and swelling and pain due to external injuries. Motherwort (Yi Mu Cao, 
) is used with Chinese Angelica root (Dang Gui, 
), Chuan Xiong rhizome (Chuan Xiong, 
), and Red peony (Chi Shao, 
). It may also be used alone.
(b)Dysuria or edema. Motherwort (Yi Mu Cao, 
) is used with fresh Imperata rhizome (Bai Mao Gen, 
).
(c)Dosage: 9–30 g.
(xi) Spatholobus stem (Ji Xue Teng, 
)
Pharmaceutical Name: Caulis Millettiae; Caulis spatholobi
Part Used: Stem
Properties: Bitter, slightly sweet, and warm Meridians: Liver
| Functions: | (a) | To invigorate the blood; |
| (b) | To nourish the blood; | |
| (c) | To relax and activate the tendons. |
Applications:
(a)Blood deficiency and blood stagnation, manifested as irregular menstruation, dysmenorrheal, or amenorrhea. Spatholobus stem (Ji Xue Teng, 
) is used with Chinese Angelica root (Dang Gui, 
), White peony root (Bai Shao, 
), and Chuan Xiong rhizome (Chuan Xiong, 
).
(b)Soreness and painful joints caused by invasion of wind-cold-damp, manifested as numbness of the limbs, or paralysis caused by poor nourishment of tendons and muscles due to deficient blood. Spatholobus stem (Ji Xue Teng, 
) is used with Chinese Angelica root (Dang Gui, 
), Chuan Xiong rhizome (Chuan Xiong, 
), Chaenomeles fruit (Mu Gua, 
), and Mulberry mistletoe (Sang Ji Sheng, 
).
(c)Dosage: 9–15 g.
(xii) Peach seed (Tao Ren, 
)
Pharmaceutical Name: Semen Persicae
Part Used: Seeds
Properties: Bitter and neutral
Meridians: Heart, liver, lung, and large intestine
| Functions: | (a) | To invigorate blood and remove stagnation; |
| (b) | To lubricate the intestines and move feces downward. |
Applications:
(a)Blood stagnation manifested as amenorrhea, dysmenorrhea, postpartum abdominal pain, and pain and swelling due to external injury. Peach seed (Tao Ren, 
) is used with Red peony (Chi Shao, 
), Safflower (Hong Hua, 
), Chinese Angelica root (Dang Gui, 
), and Chuan Xiong rhizome (Chuan Xiong, 
).
(b)Constipation due to dryness in the intestines. Peach seed (Tao Ren, 
) is used with Chinese Angelica root (Dang Gui, 
), Arborvitae seed (Bai Zi Ren, 
), Hemp seed (Huo Ma Ren, 
), and Apricot seed (Xing Ren, 
).
(c)Dosage: 4.5–9 g.
Cautions and Contraindications: This herb is pounded into pieces before decoction. It is contraindicated during pregnancy.
(xiii) Safflower (Hong Hua, 
)
Pharmaceutical Name: Flos Carthami
Part Used: Flower
Properties: Pungent and warm
Meridians: Heart and liver
| Functions: | (a) | To invigorate blood and release stagnation; |
| (b) | To promote menstruation. |
Application:
(a)Blood stagnation manifested as amenorrhea, dysmenorrhea, postpartum abdominal pain, and pain and swelling due to external injury. Safflower (Hong Hua, 
) is used with Peach seed (Tao Ren, 
), Chinese Angelica root (Dang Gui, 
), Chuan Xiong rhizome (Chuan Xiong, 
), and Red peony (Chi Shao, 
).
(b)Dosage: 3–9 g.
Cautions and Contraindications: This herb is contraindicated during pregnancy.
(xiv) Cyathula root (Niu Xi, 
)
Pharmaceutical Name: Radix Achyranthis bidentatae; Radix Cyathulae
Part Used: Root
Properties: Bitter, sour, and neutral
Meridians: Liver and kidney
| Functions: | (a) | To invigorate blood, release stagnation, and promote menstruation; |
| (b) | To tonify the liver and kidneys, and strengthen the tendons and muscles; | |
| (c) | To promote urination and relieve urinary disorders; | |
| (d) | To conduct blood flow downward. |
Applications:
(a)Blood stagnation manifested as amenorrhea, dysmenorrhea, irregular menstruation, and pain due to external injury. Cyathula root (Niu Xi, 
) is used with Peach seed (Tao Ren, 
), Safflower (Hong Hua, 
), Chinese Angelica root (Dang Gui, 
) and Corydalis tuber (Yan Hu Suo, 
).
(b)Deficiency of the liver and kidneys, manifested as soreness and weakness in the lumbar region and legs. Cyathula root (Niu Xi, 
) is used with Mulberry mistletoe (Sang Ji Sheng, 
), Eucommia bark (Du Zhong, 
), and Cibot rhizome (Gou Ji, 
).
(c)Extravasation of blood by heat, manifested as vomiting with blood and epistaxis. Cyathula root (Niu Xi, 
) is used with Small thistle (Xiao Ji, 
), Biota tops (Ce Bai Ye, 
), and Imperata rhizome (Bai Mao Gen, 
).
(d)Deficient Yin with hyperactive Yang leading to internal liver wind going upward, manifested as headache, dizziness, and vertigo. Cyathula root (Niu Xi, 
) is used with Red ochre (Dai Zhe Shi, 
), Oyster shell (Mu Li, 
), and Dragon bone (Long Gu, 
).
(e)Deficient Yin and excessive fire, manifested as ulceration of the mouth and swelling of the gums. Cyathula root (Niu Xi, 
) is used with Fresh Rehmannia root (Sheng Di Huang, 
) and Anemarrhena rhizome (Zhi Mu, 
).
(f)Urinary tract disorders, manifested as painful urination and hematuria. Cyathula root (Niu Xi, 
) is used with Rice paper pith (Tong Cao, 
), Talc (Hua Shi, 
), and Pink (Qu Mai, 
).
(g)Dosage: 4.5–9 g.
Cautions and Contraindications: This herb is contraindicated during pregnancy, or for profuse menstrual flow.
Herbal Prescriptions
(i) Taohe Chengqi Tang 
(Peach Kernel Purgative Decoction)
| Composition | :Peach seed (Tao Ren,  ) |
12 g |
Rhubarb (Da Huang,  ) |
12 g | |
Cinnamon twigs (Gui Zhi,  ) |
6 g | |
Baked licorice (Zhi Gan Cao,  ) |
6 g | |
Mirabilitum (Mang Xiao,  ) |
6 g |
Administration: Decoct the first four herbs in water, remove the resulting residue, and dissolve the last one in the decoction.
Functions: To remove blood stagnation and clear heat.
Indications: Blood stagnation and heat accumulation in the lower Jiao, marked by lower abdominal pain, normal urination, fever at night, or delirium, polydipsia, even dysphoria, or for women it may be manifested with amenorrhea or dysmenorrhea, anemia and postpartum lochiostasis, and a deep replete uneven pulse.
Formula Analysis: This is the commonly used formula for heat accumulation in the lower Jiao and its upward invasion of the mind. All the disorders should be treated by purging heat stagnation. The bitter and sweet Tao Ren 
activates blood and breaks stasis, and Da Huang 
expels heat and purges blood stasis. Together they act as the chief herbs, resolving both stasis and heat, and leading heat downward. Gui Zhi 
with acrid and sweet properties unblocks the vessels to help Tao Ren 
in invigorating blood and expelling blood stasis, as well as prevents blood stasis from the cold nature of Mang Xiao 
and Da Huang 
, Both play the part of assistant herbs. Zhi Gan Cao 
functions as the adjuvant herb by protecting the stomach and harmonizing the middle Jiao, and mediating the properties of the other composition. It can also reduce the potent efficacy of the other herbs and prevent them from impairing healthy Qi.
Applications in Bio-medicine: Amenorrhea, dysmenorrhea, acute pelvic inflammation, and placenta retention, which are ascribed to heat accumulation in the lower Jiao.
Modifications: In the case of amenorrhea or dysmenorrhea, add Chinese Angelica root (Dang Gui, 
) and Chuan Xiong rhizome (Chuan Xiong, 
).
Cautions: The formula is contraindicated for women during pregnancy.
(ii) Xuefu Zhuyu Tang 
(Decoction to Remove Blood Stagnation from the Chest)
| Composition: | Peach seed (Tao Ren,  ) |
12 g |
Safflower (Hong Hua, ) |
9 g | |
Chinese Angelica root (Dang Gui,  ) |
9 g | |
Fresh Rehmannia root (Sheng Di Huang, ) |
9 g | |
Chuan Xiong rhizome (Chuan Xiong,  ) |
5 g | |
Red peony (Chi Shao,  ) |
6 g | |
Achyranthes (Niu Xi,  ) |
9 g | |
Platycodon root (Jie Geng,  ) |
5 g | |
Bupleurum root (Chai Hu,  ) |
3 g | |
Bitter orange (Zhi Ke,  ) |
6 g | |
Licorice (Gan Cao,  ) |
3 g |
Administration: The herbs are cooked with water by decoction.
| Functions: | (a) | To promote blood circulation so as to remove blood stasis; |
| (b) | To promote circulation of Qi so as to relieve pain. |
Indications: Blood stagnation in the chest, marked by protracted chest pain and headache at a fixed location (as if pricked with needles), or frequent hiccups, or choking when drinking, or dysphoria due to interior heat, or palpitations, insomnia, irritability, hectic fever at dusk, dark-purple lips or blackish eyelids, a deep-red tongue with ecchymosis, and an uneven or taut and tense pulse.
Formula Analysis: This is a commonly used formula for treating the syndrome of blood stasis in the chest and disordered Qi activity. All the disorders should be treated by promoting the circulation of blood and Qi to remove stasis and relieve pain. Tao Ren 
and Hong Hua 
are essential herbs for promoting blood circulation to remove blood stasis and relieve pain. They act synergistically to powerful effect as the chief herbs. Used as the assistant herbs, Chi Shao 
promotes blood flow and removes blood stasis, Chuan Xiong 
promotes the flow of Qi and blood, and Niu Xi 
with bitter and sour properties promotes the smooth flow of blood in the vessels and causes blood stasis to descend — all of which enhance the effect of the chief herbs. Zhi Ke 
and Jie Geng 
regulate the flow of lung-Qi, and Chai Hu regulates liver function to promote liver-Qi flow. Their combination regulates liver-Qi and the gall bladder to promote blood circulation and remove blood stasis. Sheng Di Huang 
and Dang Gui 
nourish blood and Yin to avoid Yin and blood consumption in dispelling blood stasis. The above five compositions are the adjuvant herbs. Gan Cao 
serves as the guiding herb to mediate the properties of the other herbs. The compatibility of this formula is meant to promote the flow of Qi and clear away heat simultaneously so as to prevent impairment of blood and accumulation of heat.
Applications in Bio-medicine: Angina pectoris, irregular menstruation, cerebral thrombosis, vertigo, and mental depression as the result of sequelae of commotio cerebri, which affect the upper body and are ascribed to blood stasis and Qi stagnation.
Modifications:
(a)For amenorrhea, replace Jie Geng with Cyperus tuber (Xiang Fu, 
), Lindera root (Wu Yao, 
), and Motherwort (Yi Mu Cao, 
).
(b)For blood stagnation in the hypochondriac region, add Curcuma root (Yu Jin, 
)and Red sage root (Dan Shen, 
).
Cautions: The formula is contraindicated during pregnancy.
(iii) Buyang Huanwu Tang 
(Decoction to Tonify yang and Restore the Five Viscera)
| Composition: | Astragalus (Huang Qi,  ) |
120 g |
Chinese Angelica root (Dang Gui,  ) |
6 g | |
Red peony (Chi Shao, ) |
6 g | |
Earthworm (Di Long,  ) |
3 g | |
Chuan Xiong rhizome (Chuan Xiong,  ) |
3 g | |
Safflower (Hong Hua, ) |
3 g | |
Peach seed (Tao Ren,  ) |
3 g |
Administration: The herbs are cooked with water by decoction.
Functions: To invigorate Qi, promoting blood circulation and removing blood stasis from the meridians.
Indications: Sequelae of apoplexy, marked by hemiplegia, deviation of the eyes and mouth, salivation, frequent urination or involuntary enuresis, a deep red tongue with a thin whitish coating, and a slow pulse.
Formula Analysis: This is a commonly used formula for deficient Qi failing to promote the circulation of blood so that blood stasis occurs and the tendons and muscles are in a state of malnutrition. All the disorders should be treated by supplementing Qi, promoting blood flow, and removing blood stasis from the collaterals. The large dosage of Huang Qi 
, the chief herb, with sweet and warm properties, replenishes healthy Qi so as to promote blood flow and remove blood stasis from the collaterals. Dang Gui 
with sweet and pungent properties acts as the assistant herb, promoting blood circulation and removing stasis from the collaterals without consuming blood. Chi Shao 
, Chuan Xiong 
, Tao Ren 
, and Hong Hua 
promote the effects of the assistant herb, while Di Long 
with salty and cold properties removes blood stasis from the collaterals. These five herbs all function as the adjuvant herbs.
Applications in Bio-medicine: Hemiplegia, paraplegia, and atrophy of the upper or lower limbs from sequelae of cerebral vascular accidents and sequelae of infantile paralysis, or other reasons which pertain to blood stasis due to Qi deficiency.
Modifications:
(a)For cold limbs, add prepared aconite root (Fu Zi, 
) and Cinnamon twigs (Gui Zhi, 
).
(b)For shortness of breath and lassitude, add Ginseng (Ren Shen, 
), White Atractylodes (Bai Zhu, 
), and Poria (Fu Ling, 
).
(c)For profuse sputum, add Pinellia tuber (Ban Xia, 
) and Fresh ginger (Sheng Jiang, 
).
(d)If there is difficulty in speech, add Grass-leaved sweet flag (Shi Chang Pu, 
) and Polygala root (Yuan Zhi, 
).
(e)For dizziness and a distending pain in the head, add Uncaria stem (Gou Teng, 
), Chrysanthemum flower (Ju Hua, 
), and Tribulus fruit (Bai Ji Li, 
).
(f)For paralysis of the lower extremities, add Eucommia bark (Du Zhong, 
) and Cyathula root (Niu Xi, 
).
Cautions:
(a)The formula is contraindicated in the initial stage of apoplexy.
(b)The usual dosage for Huang Qi is 30–60 g, which should be increased gradually if there is no marked effect. It should also be taken continuously for a certain period after recovery, so as to consolidate the therapeutic effect and prevent recurrence.
(iv) Wen Jing Tang 
(Channel-Warming Decoction)
| Composition: | Evodia fruit (Wu Zhu Yu,  ) |
9 g |
Chinese Angelica root (Dang Gui,  ) |
9 g | |
White peony root (Bai Shao,  ) |
6 g | |
Chuan Xiong rhizome (Chuan Xiong,  ) |
6 g | |
Fresh ginger (Sheng Jiang,  ) |
6 g | |
Pinellia tuber (Ban Xia,  ) |
6 g | |
Ginseng (Ren Shen,  ) |
6 g | |
Cinnamon twigs (Gui Zhi,  ) |
9 g | |
Donkey hide gelatin (E Jiao,  ) |
9 g | |
Moutan bark (Mu Dan Pi,  ) |
6 g | |
Licorice (Gan Cao,  ) |
6 g | |
Ophiopogon root (Mai Dong,  ) |
9 g |
Administration: The herbs are cooked with water by decoction.
| Functions: | (a) | To warm the meridians and collaterals and dispel cold; |
| (b) | To remove stagnation of blood and nourish blood. |
Indications: Syndromes of deficient coldness and blood stagnation in the Chong and Ren Meridians, marked by spotting with dull blood clots, irregular menstruation with a preceded or delayed menstrual cycle, or overdue or persistent menstrual duration, or repeated menstruation within one month, or menstrual pain, or amenorrhea, or failure to congest due to cold in the uterus, and concomitant with fever at dusk, abdominal distension, a feverish sensation in the palms, dry mouth and lips, a dull red tongue, and fine rough pulse.
Formula Analysis: This is the commonly used formula for gynecology to warm meridians, nourish blood, and dispel stasis to regulate menstruation. The syndrome should be treated by warming the meridians to dispel cold, removing blood stasis, and nourishing blood, supplemented by nourishing Yin and clearing heat. Wu Zhu Yu 
and Gui Zhi 
) act as the chief herbs, warming the meridians, dispelling cold, and promoting blood circulation. Dang Gui 
, Chuan Xiong 
, and Bai Shao 
are used as the assistant herbs to activate blood circulation to remove blood stasis, and nourish blood to regulate menstruation. Mu Dan Pi 
is used to cool blood and dispel stasis, and promote blood flow, while E Jiao 
and Mai Dong 
nourish blood and Yin, moisten dryness, and arrest bleeding. Ren Shen 
, Gan Cao 
, Ban Xia 
, and Sheng Jiang 
supplement Qi and invigorate the spleen, warm the middle Jiao and regulate the stomach-Qi and disperse Qi stagnation, so as to promote transformation and digestion. The above seven compositions are the adjuvant herbs. Gan Cao 
also serves as the guiding herb to mediate the properties of the other herbs.
Applications in Bio-medicine: Irregular menstruation, dysmenorrhea, functional uterine bleeding, chronic pelvic inflammation, infertility, and other conditions whose chief manifestations are irregular menstruation, lower abdominal pain with a cold sensation and constant dysphoria.
Modifications:
(a)For severe cold pain in the lower abdomen, replace Mu Dan Pi and Mai Dong with Mugwort leaf (Ai Ye, 
) and Fennel fruit (Xiao Hui Xiang, 
).
(b)For distension and fullness in the lower abdomen, add Cyperus tuber (Xiang Fu, 
) and Lindera root (Wu Yao, 
).
(c)For prolonged uterine bleeding with light-red blood, replace Mu Dan Pi with Mugwort leaf (Ai Ye, 
) and Prepared Rehmannia root (Shu Di Huang, 
).
(d)For severe Qi deficiency, add Astragalus root (Huang Qi, 
).
(e)For severe heat due to Yin deficiency, add Fresh Rehmannia root (Sheng Di Huang, 
).
(v) Shenghua Tang 
(Generation and Transformation Decoction)
| Composition: | Chinese Angelica root (Dang Gui,  ) |
25 g |
Chuan Xiong rhizome (Chuan Xiong,  ) |
9 g | |
Peach seed (Tao Ren,  ) |
6 g | |
Baked ginger (Pao Jiang,  ) |
2 g | |
Baked licorice (Zhi Gan Cao,  ) |
2 g |
Administration: Decoct the above herbs in water or decoct them with millet wine for drinking.
| Functions: | (a) | To invigorate blood circulation and remove stagnation of blood; |
| (b) | To warm the meridians so as to relieve pain. |
Indications: Postpartum abdominal pain due to deficient blood, the invasion of cold, and blood stagnation, marked by retention of lochia after delivery, lower abdominal pain with a cold sensation, a pale tongue with a white coating, and a deep wiry or deep tight pulse.
Formula Analysis: This commonly used formula is for abdominal pain due to blood stasis caused by cold congealing after birth. All the disorders should be treated by promoting blood circulation, nourishing blood, removing blood stasis, warming the meridians, and relieving pain. The large dosage of the chief herb, Dang Gui 
, promotes blood circulation and removes blood stasis to promote blood regeneration. Chuan Xiong 
and Tao Ren 
respectively have the effects of promoting the circulation of blood and Qi, and promoting blood flow to remove blood stasis. They act together as the assistant herbs. Pao Jiang 
, bitter and astringent, is the adjuvant herb, warming the meridians, dispelling cold, and relieving pain. Zhi Gan Cao 
serves as the guiding herb, regulating the middle Jiao and relieving spasms, as well as mediating the properties of the other herbs. Millet wine, used when decocting the herbs, is meant to improve the properties of the other herbs, because it warms the meridians and promotes the easy flow of blood.
Applications in Bio-medicine: Postpartum inertia of the uterus, postpartum metrypercinesia, and postpartum retention of the placenta.
Modifications:
(a)In cases of severe cold, add Fennel fruit (Xiao Hui Xiang, 
) and Cinnamon bark (Rou Gui, 
).
(b)For blood stagnation, add Cattail pollen (Pu Huang, 
), Corydalis tuber (Yan Hu Suo, 
), and Motherwort (Yi Mu Cao, 
).
(c)If heat is transformed from prolonged blood stagnation, replace Gan Jiang with Moutan bark (Mu Dan Pi, 
), and Red peony (Chi Shao, 
).
(d)In cases of Qi deficiency, add Ginseng (Ren Shen, 
).