Dan Zhi Xiao Yao San

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丹栀逍遥散 (Free and Easy Wanderer Powder with Moutan and Gardenia)

Source: Jing Yue Quan Shu (Complete Works of Jing-Yue) — Zhang Jiebin (Ming, 1624)

Last updated July 22, 2026

Liver Qi stagnation transforming to fireIrritability and angerPMS with heat signsEarly menstruationHeadache and red eyes from Liver fireAnxiety with heat

Description

Dan Zhi Xiao Yao San (Free and Easy Wanderer Powder with Moutan and Gardenia) is Xiao Yao San modified with Mu Dan Pi and Zhi Zi to address the heat that arises when Liver Qi stagnation transforms into fire. It is indicated when Xiao Yao San pattern is accompanied by heat signs: irritability, headache, dry mouth, irregular menstruation with early periods, and potential menorrhagia.

Composition

Herb Amount % Role Function
Chai Hu 9g 13.33% Jun (Chief) Spreads Liver qi and relieves constraint
Dang Gui 9g 13.33% Chen (Deputy) Nourishes and invigorates the blood, regulates menses
Bai Shao 9g 13.33% Chen (Deputy) Nourishes blood, preserves yin, softens the Liver
Mu Dan Pi 6g 8.89% Zuo (Assistant) Clears heat and cools blood in the Liver channel
Zhi Zi 6g 8.89% Zuo (Assistant) Drains constrained fire and eliminates irritability
Bai Zhu 9g 13.33% Zuo (Assistant) Strengthens the Spleen and augments qi
Fu Ling 9g 13.33% Zuo (Assistant) Strengthens the Spleen and leaches dampness
Gan Cao 4.5g 6.67% Shi (Envoy) Harmonizes the middle burner and the other herbs
Bo He 3g 4.44% Shi (Envoy) Assists Chai Hu in venting constrained Liver heat
Sheng Jiang 3g 4.44% Shi (Envoy) Harmonizes the Stomach

Total weight: 81g

Preparation

Decoct in water 25 minutes. Take cool or at room temperature for heat signs.

Dosage

Decoction: 1 dose/day. Pills: 6–9g twice daily.

Conditions Addressed

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