Chai Hu Shu Gan San — Bupleurum Liver-Spreading Powder

On this page

1. Overview
2. TCM pattern
3. Key herbs
4. Conditions treated
5. Cautions

Overview

Chai Hu Shu Gan San — Bupleurum Liver-Spreading Powder — is the primary formula for spreading Liver Qi and relieving pain and tension from Liver Qi stagnation with channel obstruction. It was developed from the classical formula Si Ni San by adding additional Qi-moving and pain-relieving herbs. In modern clinical practice, where chronic stress and overwork make Liver Qi stagnation one of the most common TCM patterns, this formula is among the most frequently prescribed.

TCM pattern

Chai Hu Shu Gan San is prescribed for Liver Qi stagnation with obstruction of the channels, characterised by: pain and distension in the hypochondriac region, emotional tension, irritability, frustration, sighing, and a wiry (Xian) pulse. Unlike Xiao Yao San, it is more vigorously Qi-moving and is used where pain and physical obstruction are more prominent features.

Key herbs

1. Chai Hu (Bupleurum chinense root) — the principal herb; spreads Liver Qi and releases constraint
2. Chen Pi (Citrus reticulata peel) — regulates Qi and moves stagnation in the Middle Jiao
3. Chuan Xiong (Ligusticum chuanxiong rhizome) — invigorates Blood and moves Qi; excellent for pain from Qi and Blood stagnation
4. Xiang Fu (Cyperus rotundus rhizome) — the most important herb for spreading Liver Qi; regulates menstruation and alleviates pain
5. Zhi Ke (Citrus aurantium fruit) — moves Qi downward and reduces distension
6. Bai Shao (Paeonia lactiflora root) — nourishes Blood, softens the Liver and alleviates spasmodic pain
7. Zhi Gan Cao (honey-fried Glycyrrhiza root) — harmonises and moderates pain

Conditions treated

1. Stress and depression where Liver Qi stagnation produces physical tension alongside low mood
2. IBS with abdominal cramping triggered or worsened by emotional stress
3. Hypochondriac pain and tightness — the formula’s primary classical indication
4. Irregular menstrual cycle and premenstrual pain from Liver Qi stagnation
5. Headaches and migraines from Liver Qi stagnation in the Gallbladder channels

Cautions

Always consult a qualified Chinese herbalist registered with the Register of Chinese Herbal Medicine (RCHM). online herbal consultations are available. See the prices page for costs.