Qing Gu San: Unveiling an Ancient TCM Remedy
Formula Rhyme: Qing Gu San combines Yin Chai Hu, Hu Huang Lian, Qin Jiao, and Bie Jia. It also includes Di Gu Pi, Qing Hao, and Zhi Mu, all working together to dispel bone-steaming and consumptive fever.
Formula Explanation: This condition often stems from a deficiency of Liver and Kidney Yin, leading to an internal disturbance of empty heat. The primary treatment strategy involves clearing this empty heat and resolving the bone-steaming sensation. Yin deficiency naturally generates internal heat, and this empty heat manifests as bone-steaming fever, restlessness, and thirst. The upward flare of empty heat can cause red lips and flushed cheeks. Empty heat forcing bodily fluids out leads to night sweats. Furthermore, the depletion of Yin fluids, which are crucial for nourishing the body, results in emaciation or significant weight loss.
In this formula, Yin Chai Hu clears empty heat and resolves bone-steaming. Di Gu Pi, Hu Huang Lian, and Zhi Mu internally clear heat from the Yin aspect. Qing Hao and Qin Jiao address heat in the Liver and Gallbladder. Bie Jia nourishes Yin, clears heat, and helps dissipate bone-steaming. Gan Cao (Licorice Root) harmonizes the effects of all the herbs. Together, the entire formula tonifies the Kidneys, enriches Yin fluids, and effectively resolves bone-steaming tidal fever. Traditional Chinese Medicine offers distinct approaches to address chronic low-grade fever by focusing on underlying imbalances and strengthening the body's natural defenses PMID: 29881679.
Qing Gu San: Dosage and Administration
Ingredients: Yin Chai Hu 5g, Hu Huang Lian 3g, Qin Jiao 3g, Bie Jia 3g, Di Gu Pi 3g, Qing Hao 3g, Zhi Mu 3g, Gan Cao 2g.
Preparation: Decoct in water and take orally.
Modifications: For blood deficiency, add Dang Gui, Shu Di Huang, Bai Shao, Sheng Di Huang to nourish blood. For cough, add Jie Geng, Wu Wei Zi, E Jiao, Mai Dong to moisten the lungs and stop coughing.
Qing Gu San: Functions and Indications
Functions: Clears empty heat and resolves bone-steaming.
Indications: This formula is designed for conditions of Liver and Kidney Yin deficiency with internal empty heat disturbance. This manifests as bone-steaming fever, persistent low-grade fever that doesn't subside, emaciation, red lips and flushed cheeks, fatigue and night sweats, or thirst and restlessness. The tongue is typically red with little coating, and the pulse is thin and rapid. Understanding patterns of Yin deficiency is crucial for effective diagnosis and treatment in TCM, as it underpins many chronic conditions PMID: 32675661.
Clinical Application: This formula is used for syndromes of Liver and Kidney Yin deficiency with internal empty heat disturbance. Clinically, key diagnostic points include bone-steaming fever, emaciation, fatigue and night sweats, or thirst and restlessness, along with a red tongue with little coating, and a thin and rapid pulse. Herbal medicine has shown promise in managing symptoms like night sweats, a common manifestation of Yin deficiency PMID: 37920406.
Qing Gu San: Contraindications
If blood deficiency, add Dang Gui, Shu Di Huang, Bai Shao, Sheng Di Huang to nourish blood. If cough, add Jie Geng, Wu Wei Zi, E Jiao, Mai Dong to moisten the lungs and stop coughing.
Qing Gu San: Literature Excerpt
From 'Yi Fang Ji Jie (Collection of Medical Formulas)': "This is a formula for the Foot Shaoyang and Jueyin channels. The bitter and cold properties of Di Gu Pi, Hu Huang Lian, and Zhi Mu effectively clear heat from the Yin aspect, calming it internally. The pungent and cold properties of Chai Hu, Qing Hao, and Qin Jiao clear heat from the Liver and Gallbladder, dispersing it externally. Bie Jia, being a Yin-category substance whose shell belongs to bones, guides the other herbs into the bones to nourish Yin. Gan Cao, sweet and neutral, harmonizes the various herbs and helps resolve empty heat."
Feeling the Heat? A Quick Self-Check & Immediate Steps!
3-Second Self-Check:
- If you're experiencing a persistent low-grade fever accompanied by night sweats and a feeling of "heat in your bones"...
- If you find yourself constantly thirsty and restless, especially at night...
- If your cheeks are often flushed and your lips are red, even without exertion...
30-Second Self-Help:
- Immediately consider hydration: Sip on cool, plain water throughout the day.
- Immediately try gentle cooling: Use a cool compress on your forehead or wrists to help manage any uncomfortable heat sensations.
- Immediately prioritize rest: Ensure you're getting adequate sleep in a cool, dark room, as fatigue can exacerbate internal heat.
Important Disclaimer
For informational purposes only. Please consult a qualified practitioner of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) before use.
