Yi Gan San
Overview
Yi Gan San is a classic pediatric formula from the Ming dynasty, traditionally documented in Bao Ying Cuo Yao. Modern literature-based textual research suggests that it appeared earlier in Xue Ji’s Bao Ying Jin Jing Lu and may have been created by Xue Ji. It traditionally functions to course the Liver and nourish Blood, strengthen the Spleen, and extinguish Wind. It was originally used for patterns involving fright palpitations, convulsions, irritability, and restless sleep caused by deficient Heat in the Liver channel. It later became widely used in Japanese Kampo medicine.
Formula Composition
Common ingredients include Chai Hu, Dang Gui, Chuan Xiong, Bai Zhu, Fu Ling, Gou Teng, and Gan Cao.
Note: The formula proportions may vary among different regions and preparations. Refer to the actual product instructions.
Traditional Actions and Indications
In traditional and modern Kampo applications, it is commonly used for manifestations such as irritability, restlessness, fright and agitation, and restless sleep. It is also applied through pattern differentiation for night crying in children or behavioral and psychological symptoms in older adults.
Precautions
- When children or older adults develop marked changes in mental status or behavior, infectious, neurological, medication-related, and other causes should first be ruled out.
- The formula contains Gan Cao. With long-term use, attention should be paid to the risks of edema, elevated blood pressure, and hypokalemia.
- People currently using diuretics, cardiac medications, or multiple psychiatric medications should consult a physician.
- This formula must not be used as a substitute for standard evaluation and treatment of dementia, delirium, or psychiatric disorders.