藿香正气散

o Huo Xiang (agastache) 15g + Zi Su Ye (perilla leaf) 5g + Bai Zhi (angelica dahurica root) 5g + Jie Geng (platycodon root) 10g + Bai Zhu (white atractylodes rhizome) 10g + Hou Po (magnolia bark) 10g + Ban Xia Qu (pinellia leaven) 10g + Da Fu Pi (areca husk) 5g + Fu Ling (poria) 5g + Chen Pi (aged tangerine peel) 10g + Zhi Gan Cao (honey-fried licorice root) 12g + Sheng Jiang (fresh ginger) 5g + Da Zao (jujube) 3g = 105 g.

• Conversion to 5:1 granules:

o 105 g raw herbs ÷ 5 = 21 g granules.

• Recommended dose and method of administration:

o One dose per day, taken in two portions dissolved in warm water.

o As the disorder is located in the middle burner (Spleen and Stomach), it is recommended to take the formula after meals.

o Each dose is 10 g.

5. Cautions and clinical notes

1. [Contraindication]: This formula is warm and drying by nature; it is contraindicated in yin deficiency with effulgent fire and in damp-heat cholera-like patterns (marked by a red tongue with yellow, greasy coating, thirst, and vexation).
2. Dietary restrictions: While taking this formula, avoid raw and cold food, greasy food, sweet and rich food, and food that is difficult to digest.
3. Modern applications: This formula is widely used for summer colds, acute gastroenteritis, and gastrointestinal-type influenza where the pattern is external contraction of wind-cold with internal damage from dampness accumulation.
4. Choice of dosage form: Modern preparations include Huoxiang Zhengqi liquid, pills, capsules, and oral liquid, among other forms; Huoxiang Zhengqi liquid contains alcohol and should be used with caution by drivers, pregnant women, and those sensitive to alcohol. ProCare Herbs granules do not contain alcohol and are therefore suitable for a wider range of users.