Jia Wei Xiao Yao San — Augmented Free and Easy Wanderer

On this page

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

Overview

Jia Wei Xiao Yao San — Augmented Free and Easy Wanderer — is a modification of the classical formula Xiao Yao San, with the addition of two herbs — Mu Dan Pi and Zhi Zi — that clear Heat and cool Blood. Also known as Dan Zhi Xiao Yao San, it addresses the situation where chronic Liver Qi stagnation has generated Heat, producing inflammatory and hot symptoms alongside the base pattern of Liver Qi stagnation with Blood and Spleen deficiency.

TCM pattern

Prescribed for Liver Qi stagnation with Blood deficiency, Spleen weakness and Heat, characterised by all the features of Xiao Yao San plus Heat signs: irritability and anger, headaches with a sensation of heat in the head, thirst, a bitter taste, hot flushes, a red tongue tip or sides, and a wiry, slightly rapid pulse.

Key herbs

All the herbs of Xiao Yao San plus:

1. Mu Dan Pi (Paeonia suffruticosa root bark) — clears Heat from the Blood and Liver; cools without causing Cold damage
2. Zhi Zi (Gardenia jasminoides fruit) — clears Heart and Liver Heat; drains Damp-Heat; cools agitation and restlessness

Conditions treated

1. Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) with irritability, breast tenderness and heat sensations — one of the most commonly prescribed formulas for PMS
2. Perimenopausal and menopausal symptoms — hot flushes, irritability, mood swings and sleep disturbance
3. Depression with irritability, agitation and heat signs
4. Anxiety with prominent Heat and emotional volatility
5. Irregular menstrual cycle and heavy periods from Liver Heat disturbing the Blood
6. Acne on the sides of the face and jawline from Liver Heat and Blood deficiency

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.