Xiao Chai Hu Tang
小柴胡汤 (Xiao Chai Hu Tang)
Source: Shang Han Lun — Zhang Zhongjing (Han, 220)
Description
Xiao Chai Hu Tang (Minor Bupleurum Decoction) is one of the most studied and widely used classical formulas, treating Shao Yang syndrome — when disease is neither on the exterior nor fully interior. It harmonizes and releases the Shao Yang, balances Liver-Gallbladder and Spleen-Stomach, and is the basis for numerous modern clinical applications in hepatology, immunology, and respiratory medicine.
Composition
| Herb | Amount | % | Role | Function |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Huang Qin | 9g | 11.11% | Chen (Deputy) | Clears heat from Shao Yang, eliminates Gallbladder heat. |
| Ban Xia | 9g | 11.11% | Chen (Deputy) | Harmonizes Stomach, descends rebellious Qi, stops vomiting. |
| Ren Shen | 9g | 11.11% | Zuo (Assistant) | Tonifies Spleen Qi, prevents pathogen entering interior. |
| Gan Cao | 9g | 11.11% | Zuo (Assistant) | Tonifies Qi, harmonizes all herbs. |
| Sheng Jiang | 9g | 11.11% | Shi (Envoy) | Harmonizes Stomach, assists Ban Xia, releases exterior. |
| Da Zao | 12g | 14.81% | Shi (Envoy) | Tonifies Spleen Qi and Blood, harmonizes Ying Qi. |
| Chai Hu | 24g | 29.63% | Jun (Chief) | Releases Shao Yang pathogen, harmonizes exterior-interior, spreads Liver Qi. |
Total weight: 96g
Preparation
Traditional double-decoction: decoct all herbs in 1.2L water, reduce to 600mL, remove dregs, reduce to 300mL. Take warm in 3 doses/day.
Dosage
Decoction: 1 dose/day in 2–3 divided doses. Granules: follow package instructions.
Similar Formulas by composition
Match score combines dosage-weighted composition (cosine, 70%) with shared-herb overlap (Jaccard, 30%).