济川煎

4. Granule conversion and dose

• Calculation of the total raw herb weight of the original formula (classical dosage):

o Rou Cong Rong (cistanche) 9 g + Dang Gui (Chinese angelica root) 12 g + Niu Xi (achyranthes root) 6 g + Ze Xie (alisma rhizome) 6 g + Sheng Ma (cimicifuga rhizome) 3 g + Zhi Ke (bitter orange fruit) 6 g = 42 g.

• Conversion to 5:1 granules:

o 42 g raw herb ÷ 5 = 8.5 g granules.

• Recommended dose and method of administration:

o One dose daily, to be taken dissolved in warm water, preferably on an empty stomach in the early morning or before sleep at night.

o Approximately 8.5 g per dose.

5. Cautions and clinical notes

1. [Contraindications]: This formula is designed for constipation due to kidney deficiency. It is contraindicated in constipation due to excess heat, constipation due to yin deficiency (marked by dry mouth and a red tongue with scant coating), and in pregnant women.
2. Dietary regulation: During administration, it is appropriate to increase water intake somewhat and eat more fiber-rich foods to assist the action of the formula.
3. Modern application: This formula is widely used for habitual constipation in the elderly, postpartum constipation, and constipation due to weakness after illness, where the pattern is kidney deficiency with depleted fluids.
4. Duration of use: Constipation of deficiency type is not resolved in a single day; use should be continued under a practitioner's guidance to achieve gradual effect.