Xiāo Yáo Sǎn, translated as “Rambling Powder,” is one of the most widely used formulas in Chinese medicine. It gently harmonizes the Spleen and Liver and treats a wide variety of modern conditions. But is it always the best choice? Is it over-used by practitioners? Or is it the “wonder” formula? Let’s find out!
This one is personal: this is the formula I have been on for quite a while now. It lives up to its translation of “All Inclusive Great Tonifying Decoction.” It is kind of an all-purpose formula in that it tonifies all four of the basic substances: qi, blood, yin, and yang.
Finally, an “A” lister: Dang Gui is definitely one of the all-stars of Chinese herbology. As a cornerstone of many formulas to help build the blood and affect the menses, it is one of the most important herbs in the Chinese pharmacopoeia. Join us as we explore this herb in its traditional context, in current western herbology, and the science behind it.