Different Forms of Constipation
In traditional Chinese medicine, constipation isn’t a “fiber deficiency,” but a functional intestinal problem. Two formulas address this, but for completely different patients.
Ma Zi Ren Wan: The Dry Heat (Spleen Restriction)
This formula is for constipation due to Heat and Dryness in the Stomach and Intestines.
The Patient: Has a strong constitution, but eats too much, too hot or drinks too little.
Symptoms: Hard, dry stools that are difficult to pass. Frequent urination (fluid goes to the bladder instead of the bowel). Bloated, hard abdomen. The person feels hot and may have bad breath.
Operation: The formula is laxative anddrains health moisturizes, but also flushes the “burn” out of the intestines.
Run Chang Wan: The Dried-Out Void
This formula is for constipation due to a deficiency of Blood and Yin (fluids).
The Patient: Often elderly, women after childbirth, or people after a long illness.
Symptoms:The stool is dry, but there is no force to strain. The patient is tired, pale, and has dry skin and dull hair. There are no heat signs. The bowel is simply too “dry” to move (“like a boat in a dry river”).
Operation:“Run” means to moisten. The formula contains many oil-containing seeds (peach kernel, sesame seeds) to lubricate the intestines. It has little laxative effect, butslides.
Conclusion
Use Ma Zi Ren Wanto clear and drain in heat. UseRun Chang Wanto nourish and lubricate in times of weakness.