Plum Flower - Minor Bupleurum (Xiao Chai Hu)

What is it?

Plum Flower - Xiao Chai Hu Teapills is a classical Chinese Medicine formula (c. 220 AD) that strongly moves Liver qi, cools Liver heat, tonifies Spleen qi (i.e. aids digestion), and transforms phlegm. It is said to harmonize and resolve shaoyang syndrome (i.e. half-interior, half exterior syndrome) in which an invading pathogenic influence is trapped between qi layers of the body, causing recurring bouts of alternating fever and chills, chronic colds & flu, or lingering fevers of unspecified origin. Additional signs of Liver qi stagnation, such as abdominal distension, feelings of fullness in the chest and flanks, and irritability also point toward the appropriate use of this formula-- and as with any formula in TCM, it is the individual's pattern that guides selection of the correct formula and appropriate course of treatment. Here are some other potential applications of Xiao Chai Hu Teapills:

• Xiao Chai Hu Wan can be used to address menstrual disorders with Liver qi stagnation at their root (e.g. premenstrual tension and irregular menses). In this regard it bears some similarity of function to Xiao Yao Wan (although Xiao Chai Hu Wan does not address blood deficincy as does Xiao Yao Wan).
• Also useful to address digestive disorders related to Liver congestion, with such symptoms as: lack of appetite, nausea and vomiting, and bitter taste in the mouth.
• Also useful in blood sugar regulation (due to its actions to regulate the Liver and tonify the Spleen).
• Can be thought of as a detoxifier of the liver and the lymphatic system.

  *This formula has been shown in laboratory and animals to reduce or stop the spread of liver cancer cells. One clinical trial showed that Xiao Chai Hu Tang Wan was associated with a decreased risk of developing liver cancer in patients with cirrhosis.

Herbal Ingredients:

• Chai Hu – Bupleurum – Radix Bupleuri
• Ban Xia – Pinellia – Rhizoma Pinelliae
• Dang Shen – Codonopsis – Radix Codonopsis
• Huang Qin – Scutellaria – Radix Scutellariae
• Da Zao – Jujube Date – Fructus Jujubae
• Gan Cao – Licorice Root – Radix Glycyrrhizae
• Sheng Jiang – Fresh Ginger – Rhizoma Zingiberis Recens

Other Ingredients: Hydrated magnesium silicate, China wax

Dosage Instructions:

Take 8 teapills, three times per day (or as directed by your healthcare professional).

Amount: 200 teapills per bottle (net wt. 1.2 oz.)