From Basic Energy to Complex Digestion
Of Si Jun Zi Tang(“Four Gentlemen Decoction”) is the progenitor of almost all digestion and Qi formulas. It’s interesting to see how small adjustments can shift the focus.
1. Si Jun Zi Tang (De Basis)
Ingredients: Ginseng, Atractylodes, Poria, Zoethout.
Goal:Purely strengthening of Spleen Qi
Application:For someone who is simply tired, pale-faced, and soft-spoken. No accompanying symptoms, just emptiness.
2. Liu Jun Zi Tang (De Zes Heren)
Addition: Chen Pi(Mandarin peel) andBan Xia.
Goal:Strengthening Qi +Dissolve Mucus.
Application:If the Qi deficiency has led to fluid retention, the person is tired and experiences mucus in the throat, nausea, or a feeling of fullness in the chest.
3. Xiang Sha Liu Jun Zi Tang (De Geurige Zes Heren)
Addition: Mu Xiang in Sha Ren.
Goal:Strengthening Qi + Dissolving Phlegm +Moving Qi (Pain).
Application:This is the most comprehensive version. It’s for people with weak digestion who also experience cramps, pain, belching, and bloating. The added herbs are aromatic and “awaken” and warm the digestive system.
Conclusion
You see a build-up: from weakness (Si), to weakness with phlegm (Liu), to weakness with phlegm and stagnation/pain (Xiang Sha).