Premenstrual Syndrome Formula - Chai Huang Decoction
Formula Name: Chai Huang Decoction
【Function and Indications】
Function: Regulating the liver and gallbladder, balancing Yin and Yang. Indicated for premenstrual syndrome.
【Prescription Composition】
Bupleurum 9g, Coptis 9g, Codonopsis 12g, Atractylodes 8g, Ginger-processed Pinellia 9g, Fried Licorice 6g, decocted in water. Begin taking 1–2 days before symptom onset until menstruation begins.
【Syndrome Differentiation and Modifications】
Add Toona Sinensis 10g, White Peony 15g, and Prunella 15g for breast distension and rib pain; reduce Pinellia and Codonopsis, add Moutan Cortex 10g, Gardenia 15g, and Fresh Rehmannia 15g for irritability and fever; add Atractylodes 15g and Job's Tears 20g for diarrhea; add Poria 20g, Alisma 12g, and Plantago Seed 15g for edema; add Polygala 15g, Ziziphus 10g, and Angelica 10g for palpitations and insomnia; reduce licorice, add Bamboo Shavings 10g and Perilla Stem 10g for nausea and vomiting; add Chrysanthemum 10g and Ligusticum 15g for dizziness and headache; add Salvia 15g and Chicken Blood Vine 10g for blood stasis; add Astragalus 15g for Qi deficiency and fatigue; add Magnetite 15g and Ligustrum 15g for infertility.
【Clinical Efficacy】
Treated 167 cases: 77 cured, 57 markedly improved, 22 effective, 11 ineffective; total effective rate 93.41%.
【Prescription Source】
Liu Changjiang, Air Force Medical College.
【Comment】
The gallbladder (Shaoyang) and liver (Jueyin) are interrelated, jointly governing the pivot of Yin and Yang. In women, monthly menstrual flow depends on balanced Shaoyang and Jueyin Qi. If Shaoyang Qi becomes imbalanced or Jueyin Qi fails to move smoothly, the Yin-Yang pivot becomes obstructed, leading to menstrual disorder, inadequate Chong and Ren vessels, and uterine dysfunction—manifesting as this syndrome. This formula balances Yin and Yang and regulates the pivot of liver and gallbladder, enabling smooth menstrual flow and excellent results. Clinically, Bupleurum should be used in large doses—up to 20g, or even 50g in some patients—with excellent effects and no adverse reactions.<Menstrual Period>