Zhou Che Wan 1
【Source】"Gu Jin Yi Tong" Volume 43 citing "Tai Ping Sheng Hui Fang".
【Alternate Names】Zhou Che Shen You Wan ("Yi Xue Gang Mu" Volume 4 citing He Jian)
【Composition】Euphorbia kansui 30 grams, flos daphnes 30 grams (vinegar processed), croton seed 30 grams (vinegar processed), rhubarb 60 grams, costus 15 grams, areca nut 15 grams, green tangerine peel 15 grams, tangerine peel (white part removed) 15 grams, unripe poppy seed 120 grams, light powder 3 grams
【Usage】Grind into powder, make pills with water paste, size of paulownia seeds. Take 3–6 grams daily, once a day, early morning on an empty stomach with warm water, until bowel movement occurs.
【Function】Strong purgative for eliminating fluid retention.
【Indications】Internal retention of dampness and fluid, obstruction of qi and blood, lack of circulation, edema, abdominal distension, constipation and urinary retention, deep and forceful pulse. Used today for ascites due to liver cirrhosis or other diseases presenting these symptoms.
【Taboo】Severe cases must avoid salt and soy sauce for 100 days; not suitable for those with weak spleen and stomach, or during pregnancy and postpartum.
【Additions/Reductions】If intestinal worm accumulation, add cumin 15 grams.
【Discussion】The formula uses euphorbia kansui, croton seed, and flos daphnes as main herbs to attack and expel water; rhubarb and unripe poppy seed act as secondary herbs to purge dampness and promote urination; green tangerine peel, tangerine peel, costus, and areca nut guide qi and relieve stagnation; light powder promotes water expulsion and bowel movement—these are auxiliary and guiding herbs. Combined, they achieve the effect of attacking water accumulation and relieving qi stagnation. |
