Bitter Snake Gourd — Classic Formulas
Gua Lou · Fructus Trichosanthis
Primary Actions
- Clears Heat and transforms Phlegm
- Broadens the chest and dissipates chest obstruction
- Moistens the intestines and promotes bowel movements
- Disperses swellings and abscesses
Classic Formulas
- Gua Lou Xie Bai Bai Jiu Tang — foundational formula for chest bi syndrome and angina
- Xiao Xian Xiong Tang — clears Phlegm-Heat binding in the chest with epigastric fullness
- Gua Lou Xie Bai Ban Xia Tang — intensified formula for severe chest obstruction with Phlegm
Classical Text References
- Ben Cao Gang Mu (Li Shizhen): 'Moistens Lung dryness, descends Fire, treats cough, scours away knotted Phlegm and disperses abscesses, swellings, sores, and toxins'