Long Dan Xie Gan Tang
Overview
The most classic version of Long Dan Xie Gan Tang comes from the Qing dynasty physician Wang Ang’s Yi Fang Ji Jie. It was adapted and refined based on similar formulas from the Jin and Yuan periods, specifically addressing the two disease mechanisms of blazing excess Liver-Gallbladder Fire rising upward, such as bitter taste and red eyes, and damp-heat accumulation in the lower burner, such as painful, cloudy urination and genital itching.
Formula Composition
Common ingredients include Long Dan Cao, Huang Qin, Zhi Zi, Ze Xie, Mu Tong, Che Qian Zi, Dang Gui, Sheng Di Huang, Chai Hu, and Gan Cao.
Note: Specific formula proportions may vary among different sources and dosage forms; refer to the actual product instructions.
Traditional Actions and Indications
Traditionally used for manifestations of excess Liver-Gallbladder Fire or damp-heat accumulation in the lower burner, including headache, red eyes, bitter taste, tinnitus, ear pain, hypochondriac pain, yellow urine, vulvar itching, or damp-heat discharge. Suitability should be determined through overall pattern differentiation.
Precautions
- This formula is relatively bitter and cold in nature and should not be self-administered continuously as a “long-term heat-clearing tea.”
- Those with diarrhea, Spleen and Stomach weakness, or a constitution tending toward cold should exercise caution.
- Pregnant women, breastfeeding women, children, and those with abnormal liver or kidney function should consult a qualified professional before use.
- Seek medical attention promptly when ear pain, urinary tract symptoms, or reproductive system symptoms are accompanied by high fever or severe pain.