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Bai Hu Tang

白虎汤 (Bai Hu Tang)

Source: Shang Han Lun — Zhang Zhongjing (Han, 220)

Yang Ming channel heat excessHigh fever with profuse sweatingIntense thirst for cold drinksFlooding surging pulseHeatstrokeDiabetes-type wasting thirstInfluenza with high fever

Description

Bai Hu Tang (White Tiger Decoction) is the classic formula for clearing Yang Ming channel excess heat — intense fever with profuse sweating, extreme thirst, and flooding pulse. Shi Gao (gypsum) and Zhi Mu powerfully clear heat and nourish Yin, while Jing Mi (rice) and Gan Cao protect the Stomach. The 'White Tiger' name refers to the fearsome cooling power of autumn and the Metal element.

Preparation

Cook rice (Jing Mi) first until soft, then add Shi Gao (crushed), Zhi Mu, and Gan Cao. Simmer 30 minutes. Strain through fine sieve to remove Shi Gao residue. Take cool.

Dosage

Decoction: 1–2 doses/day. Take cool for high fever. Contraindicated in deficiency-cold, no fever, or excessive sweating from Qi deficiency.