Xiao Cheng Qi Tang — Minor Order the Qi Decoction

On this page

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

Overview

Xiao Cheng Qi Tang — Minor Order the Qi Decoction — is one of the Cheng Qi (Order the Qi) family of formulas from Zhang Zhongjing’s Shang Han Lun, which use Da Huang (rhubarb) to purge Heat accumulation from the Yangming (Stomach and Intestines). It is the gentler version of Da Cheng Qi Tang (Major Order the Qi Decoction), using Da Huang and Hou Po to move accumulation and descend Qi without the additional harsh draining power of Mang Xiao (Natrii Sulfas). It is suited to cases where there is Heat accumulation in the Intestines with constipation and abdominal fullness, but the condition is not yet as severe or urgent as that requiring the major formula.

TCM pattern

Prescribed for Heat accumulation in the Yangming Intestines with Qi stagnation, characterised by: constipation with hard stools, abdominal fullness and distension that is worsened by pressure, mild fever, dry mouth, a yellow and dry tongue coating, and a deep, forceful pulse.

Key herbs

1. Da Huang (Rheum palmatum root) — the principal herb; powerfully purges Heat accumulation from the Intestines; moves the bowels and clears Fire
2. Hou Po (Magnolia officinalis bark) — moves Qi, reduces abdominal distension and relieves fullness; descends the obstructed Intestinal Qi
3. Zhi Shi (Citrus aurantium immature fruit) — breaks up Qi stagnation, reduces distension and moves accumulation downward

Conditions treated

1. Constipation with abdominal fullness and Heat accumulation in excess patients
2. Early stage appendicitis — used as part of integrative treatment in TCM hospitals in China alongside monitoring
3. Intestinal obstruction (partial) with abdominal distension and constipation from Heat and Qi accumulation
4. Acute abdominal conditions with Heat and Qi accumulation requiring downward purging
5. Food stagnation with Heat producing constipation and abdominal distension

Contraindicated in pregnancy, deficiency patterns and Cold constipation. A purging formula for excess, Heat and accumulation only. Use under qualified practitioner supervision for acute abdominal conditions.

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.