Ephedra, Aconite, and Asarum Decoction

傷寒論

-- For Shao Yin disease, just after onset, with paradoxical fever and a deep pulse, Mahuang Fuzi Xixin Tang is indicated. (Shang Han Lun)

Mahuang 2 liang, Xixin 2 liang, Fuzi 1 piece. The above three ingredients, with water 1 dou, first boil Mahuang, reduce by 2 sheng, remove the upper foam, add the other medicinals, boil down to 3 sheng, remove dregs. Take 1 sheng warm, three times daily. (Shang Han Za Bing Lun)

The above three ingredients, with water 1 dou, first boil Mahuang, reduce by 2 sheng, remove the upper foam, add the other medicinals, boil down to 3 sheng, remove dregs. Take 1 sheng warm, three times daily (modern usage: decoct in water and take warm).

湯劑

Assist Yang and release the exterior.

Exterior cold pattern due to external contraction in Yang deficiency. Marked aversion to cold, fever, desire only to sleep, absence of sweating, pale tongue, and deep pulse.

Difficult urination, edema: add Fuling:15, Baishao:15, Baizhu:10, Shengjiang:15, Guizhi:10, Zhuling:10, Zexie:20. -- Brain cancer, brain tumor, severe headache: add Chuanxiong:30, Baizhi:30. -- Insomnia, palpitations, heatstroke, or severe upper heat: add Renshen:10, Zhi Gancao:10, Wumei:10.

1. If Shao Yin Yang deficiency presents with diarrhea with undigested food, cold reversal of the four limbs, and a faint pulse about to expire, one should follow Zhongjing's principle of 'first warm the interior, then attack the exterior'; otherwise, mistakenly inducing sweating will certainly lead to the critical condition of Yang desertion. 2. If Mahuang is used at 15 g or more, it should be boiled for a long time, at least two hours. 3. Prescriptions containing Mahuang should not be taken after 8 p.m., otherwise it may easily cause insomnia. If insomnia still occurs after doing this, switch to taking it after breakfast and lunch. 4. Those who are thin and weak, those who are weak and sickly, and those who are thin, pale, and sweat easily should all use Mahuang with caution.