Zhi Zi Hou Po Tang — Gardenia & Magnolia Bark Decoction
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Overview
Zhi Zi Hou Po Tang — Gardenia and Magnolia Bark Decoction — is another of Zhang Zhongjing’s Shang Han Lun formulas. It is a variation of Zhi Zi Chi Tang with Hou Po and Zhi Shi added, addressing Heat in the chest with concurrent Qi stagnation and epigastric distention.
The formula is for when chest restlessness is combined with abdominal fullness and distension — that uncomfortable feeling of bloating, oppression and inner heat all at once.
I prescribe Zhi Zi Hou Po Tang as part of bespoke herbal formulas from pharmaceutical-grade granules sourced from Sun Ten in Taiwan.
TCM pattern
Zhi Zi Hou Po Tang is prescribed for Heat in chest with Qi stagnation and epigastric distention:
- Restlessness, irritability, vexation
- Epigastric and abdominal distention
- Chest fullness and oppression
- Insomnia with tossing
- Mild constipation
- Often follows acute illness or stress
- Tongue — red, yellow coat
- Pulse — rapid, slightly wiry or slippery
Key herbs
- Zhi Zi — clears Heat from chest
- Hou Po (magnolia bark) — moves Qi and transforms Damp; relieves distention
- Zhi Shi — moves Qi and breaks stagnation
Formula actions
- Clears Heat from the chest
- Moves stagnant Qi
- Resolves epigastric distention
- Calms restlessness
Conditions treated
- Insomnia with bloating and chest fullness
- Stress-driven epigastric distention with anxiety
- Post-illness restlessness with abdominal symptoms
- Functional dyspepsia with Heat and Qi stagnation
- IBS with prominent bloating and chest tension — see IBS
- Mild constipation with chest oppression
- Anxiety with prominent bloating — see anxiety
Cautions
Not appropriate for cold patterns or Spleen Qi deficiency without Heat or stagnation.
Use cautiously in pregnancy.
Always consult a qualified Chinese herbalist registered with the RCHM.
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