This formula is a variant of the formula that was originally devised by Li Gao (a.k.a. L. Dong- yuan), and first appeared in his ‘Treatise on the Spleen and Stomach’ (pi wei lun), 1249. This formula was directed towards Blood stasis and Wind (or Wind-Damp) invasion of the Intestines, in addition to Intestinal Dryness.

However, the former two pathologies are rarely seen in association with constipation. The formula was subsequently revised by Shen Jin-ao (a.k.a. Shen Qian-lu) some 500 years later, appearing in his book ‘Master Shen’s Book for Revering Life’ (shen shi zun sheng shu), 1773.

The synergistic actions of the herbs are as follows:

•  Trichosanthes fruit (quan gua luo), Citrus fruit (zhi ke), Biota seed (bai zi ren), Linum seed (hu ma ren) : moisten the Intestines and regulate the Qi to open the bowels.
•  Angelica root (dang-gui): nourish the Blood to moisten the Intestines and open the bowels.
•  Morus fruit (sang shen zi): nourish the Blood and enrich the Kidney Essence to moisten the Intestines and open the bowels.
•  Rheum root & rhizome (da huang): purges the bowels.