Yinchenhao Tang – Nan Kaiyang

Author: Nan Kaiyang  Editor: Gu Yuxi Translator: Gu Yuxi

Original Text:

Shanghan Lun260：For typhoid of seven or eight days, with body yellowness resembling an orange color, unfavorable urination, and slight abdominal fullness, Yinchenhao Tang (Artemisia Capillaris Decoction) is indicated.

Pathogenesis:

Dampness and heat are intertwined and obstructed, leading to impaired qi transformation, improper distribution of fluids, stagnation of qi in the middle jiao, and dysfunction of qi transformation in the Sanjiao (triple warmer).

Clause:

Clause 236 of Shanghan Lun  addresses the symptoms and treatment of jaundice caused by damp-heat stagnation and steaming: “In Yangming disease, if there is fever with sweating, this indicates heat venting, and jaundice will not develop. However, if there is sweating only on the head, no sweating on the body below the neck, unfavorable urination, and thirst with a desire for fluids, this indicates stagnant heat internally; the body will definitely develop jaundice, and Yinchenhao Tang is indicated.”

This suggests that if the heat evil vents outward and dampness is simultaneously discharged, dampness and heat do not combine, and therefore jaundice will not develop. If fever is accompanied by sweating on the head, no sweating below the neck, and unfavorable urination, it means that the stagnant heat cannot vent outward but is contained internally. The steaming of damp-heat causes sweating on the head. When damp-heat accumulates internally, there is dysfunction of qi transformation in the Sanjiao, leading to symptoms like no sweat or difficult sweating, and aggravated unfavorable urination, etc. These two factors are mutually causative, ultimately leading to jaundice. Damp-heat steaming the liver and gallbladder causes the gallbladder to discharge its fluid due to heat.

Commentary:

As Ke Yunbo said: “Slight abdominal fullness indicates repletion in the stomach, and harmonizing the two stools is the duty of Artemisia Capillaris.”
Qian Tianlai also said: “Evil food stagnation leads to slight abdominal fullness.”
Yu Tuan of the Ming Dynasty said: “If dampness is treated without benefiting urination, it is not the correct treatment.” Moreover, promoting urination can also facilitate qi and resolve stagnation, as stated, “To facilitate Yang, one must benefit urination.” For jaundice, benefiting urination is the primary and most correct method.

Treatment Principle:

To promote the free flow of water and grain pathways, regulate the middle jiao and aid digestion, and harmonize the five zang organs.

Disclaimer:​

The experiences and insights shared above represent the author’s personal usage and understanding, and are provided for reference only as part of academic exchange. Please do not blindly replicate or apply them; any consequences arising from such actions are solely your responsibility. As individual constitutions vary, medication should be tailored accordingly. It is advisable to use such treatments under the guidance of a qualified physician. If you have additional experiences to share, comments and submissions are welcome.​
If you appreciate my article, please give it a like.​
If you are a generous and affluent individual, please consider making a donation!​
Your recognition is my greatest motivation to continue writing—thank you very much!​
USD Donation Button —​