Xiang Sha Liu Jun Zi Tang — Aucklandia and Amomum Six Gentlemen Decoction

On this page

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

Overview

Xiang Sha Liu Jun Zi Tang — Aucklandia and Amomum Six Gentlemen Decoction — is a modification of Liu Jun Zi Tang (Six Gentlemen Decoction) with the addition of two aromatic, Qi-moving herbs — Mu Xiang (Saussurea / Aucklandia) and Sha Ren (Amomum) — that warm the Middle, move Qi and resolve Dampness. This modification specifically addresses the situation where Spleen Qi deficiency and Phlegm-Damp are accompanied by Qi stagnation in the Middle Jiao — producing not just deficiency symptoms but also significant distension, bloating and discomfort. It is one of the most widely used digestive formulas in contemporary Chinese herbal medicine practice.

TCM pattern

Prescribed for Spleen and Stomach Qi deficiency with Phlegm-Damp and Qi stagnation, characterised by: fatigue, poor appetite, nausea, a sensation of fullness and distension in the epigastrium and abdomen (more pronounced than in plain Liu Jun Zi Tang), bloating after meals, loose stools, a swollen pale tongue with greasy white coating, and a weak, slippery, slightly wiry pulse.

Key herbs

1. All six herbs of Liu Jun Zi Tang (Ren Shen, Bai Zhu, Fu Ling, Zhi Gan Cao, Ban Xia, Chen Pi) plus:
2. Mu Xiang (Saussurea lappa / Aucklandia lappa root) — the principal added herb; moves Qi in the Middle Jiao, relieves pain and distension, and prevents the tonifying herbs from causing stagnation
3. Sha Ren (Amomum villosum fruit) — warms the Middle Jiao, moves Qi, dries Dampness and stops nausea; has a particular affinity for the Spleen and Stomach

Conditions treated

1. IBS with Spleen Qi deficiency and Qi stagnation — particularly bloating, distension and loose stools with fatigue
2. Chronic digestive disorders with prominent bloating and distension alongside fatigue and poor appetite
3. Morning sickness in pregnancy with Spleen deficiency and Qi stagnation causing nausea, vomiting and poor appetite
4. Gastroparesis and functional dyspepsia from Spleen Qi deficiency with Qi stagnation
5. Chronic fatigue with digestive weakness and prominent bloating from Spleen deficiency and Damp-Qi stagnation
6. Post-illness recovery where the Spleen needs rebuilding but there is also Qi stagnation from prolonged bed rest or inactivity

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.