Bai Tong Tang
Star白通汤 (White Penetrating Decoction)
Source: Shang Han Lun — Zhang Zhong-Jing (Eastern Han, c. 220)
Last updated October 1, 2026
Description
Bai Tong Tang (White Penetrating Decoction), from the Shang Han Lun (Discussion of Cold-Induced Disorders) by Zhang Zhong-Jing — a variation of Si Ni Tang.
Presentation: Shaoyin syndrome with excess yin and cold affecting the lower jiao: severe diarrhea and a fainting pulse, plus the signs of Si Ni Tang.
Fu Zi: The Shang Han Lun original used raw Sheng Fu Zi; modern practitioners always use prepared Zhi Fu Zi (Radix Aconiti Lateralis Praeparata).
Source: Chen JK, Chen TT. Chinese Herbal Formulas and Applications: Pharmacological Effects & Clinical Research. Art of Medicine Press, 2009, p. 489.
Composition
| Herb | Amount | % | Role | Function |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Cong Bai
dose printed as 3–5 g; as printed: Bulbus Allii Fistulosi (cong bai) 3–5 g
|
g | — | — | |
|
Zhi Fu Zi
dose printed as 5–10 g; as printed: Radix Aconiti Lateralis Praeparata (fu zi) 5–10 g
|
g | — | — | |
|
Gan Jiang
dose printed as 3–5 g; as printed: Rhizoma Zingiberis (gan jiang) 3–5 g
|
g | — | — |
Preparation
Cook in 3 cups [600 mL] water to 1 cup [200 mL]; take warm in two doses daily; today use bracketed doses.
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Traditional formula information is for educational purposes only. Herbal formulas should be prescribed by a qualified practitioner — dosages and combinations are individualized and can interact with medications.
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