Galangal Resurrectionlily Rhizome … Classic Formulas
Shan Nai · Rhizoma Kaempferiae
Primary Actions
- Warms the middle burner and dispels cold - Shan Nai is used for cold-type abdominal discomfort, weak appetite, and indigestion when warmth and movement are both needed.
- Promotes digestion - it is especially suited to stagnation from cold-damp or weak digestive transformation rather than to heat-type food retention.
- Alleviates pain - traditional indications include toothache, traumatic discomfort, and chest or epigastric tightness when aromatic warming herbs are preferred.
Classic Formulas
- Middle-warming digestive pairings with Gao Liang Jiang or Chen Pi - common strategy when cold, stagnation, and fullness coexist.
- External powders or simple preparations for toothache and trauma - traditional use extends beyond the digestive tract when local pain and cold stagnation are emphasized.
Classical Text References
- TCM Wiki describes Shan Nai as pungent and warm, entering the Stomach to warm the middle energizer, promote digestion, and alleviate pain.
- Traditional cautions specifically note that Shan Nai is not appropriate for yin-deficiency heat or stomach-fire presentations.