Yin Qiao San

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银翘散 (Honeysuckle and Forsythia Powder)

Source: Wen Bing Tiao Bian — Wu Jutong (Qing, 1798)

Last updated July 22, 2026

Wind-Heat exterior patternFever greater than chillsSore throatAcute tonsillitisInfluenzaViral respiratory infectionsEarly stage of warm disease

Description

Yin Qiao San (Honeysuckle and Forsythia Powder) is the primary formula for Wind-Heat invasion of the Wei level in warm diseases. It clears heat, releases the exterior, and resolves toxins while gently dispersing Wind-Heat without injuring fluids. It is one of the most widely used formulas in modern TCM practice for acute respiratory infections, flu, and sore throat from Wind-Heat.

Composition

Herb Amount % Role Function
Jie Geng 6g 35.29% Chen (Deputy) Opens and directs Lung Qi, benefits throat.
Ban Xia 6g 35.29% Zuo (Assistant) Assists in directing Qi downward.
Gan Cao 5g 29.41% Shi (Envoy) Harmonizes formula, benefits throat, resolves toxins.

Total weight: 72g

Preparation

Critical: decoct lightly for only 5–10 minutes to preserve volatile aromatic constituents. Strain and take warm. Over-cooking destroys the formula's effectiveness.

Dosage

Powder: 6–9g 3–4x/day with fresh reed root (Lu Gen) decoction or warm water. Decoction: take every 4–6 hours acutely. Do not over-boil.

Conditions Addressed

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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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