Xiao Jin Dan

Xiao Jin Dan (Minor Gold Special Pill), from the Wai Ke Zheng Zhi Quan Sheng Ji (Complete Collection of Patterns and Treatments in External Medicine) by Wang Wei-De.

Actions: Dissolves phlegm and dispels dampness; Dispels stagnation and opens the channels and collaterals.

Presentation: Yin-type (deep-rooted) sores from obstruction by cold, dampness, phlegm and blood stasis: multiple abscesses, subcutaneous nodules, scrofula, mammary 'rock', buboes, cellulitis; swelling, hardening and pain, usually no skin color change early.

Cautions:

• Use with caution in patients with underlying deficiency; strong formula.
• Contraindicated during pregnancy.
• She Xiang is from an endangered animal; most modern products omit or substitute it.

Source: Chen JK, Chen TT. Chinese Herbal Formulas and Applications: Pharmacological Effects & Clinical Research. Art of Medicine Press, 2009, p. 1374.

Grind to fine powder, mix with Nuo Mi [36g] and form 250 pills the size of Qian Shi; take one pill with aged grain-based liquor and cover up to promote sweating. Modern: grind She Xiang separately, combine 100g powder with 25g starch into pills; 2-5 pills twice daily, less for children.