RUN CHANG WAN (BP019) Linum & Rhubarb Formula Complex

Indication

This formula is a variant of the formula that was originally devised by Li Gao (a.k.a. L. Dong- yuan), and first appeared in his ‘Treatise on the Spleen and Stomach’ (pi wei lun), 1249. This formula was directed towards Blood stasis and Wind (or Wind-Damp) invasion of the Intestines, in addition to Intestinal Dryness.

However, the former two pathologies are rarely seen in association with constipation. The formula was subsequently revised by Shen Jin-ao (a.k.a. Shen Qian-lu) some 500 years later, appearing in his book ‘Master Shen’s Book for Revering Life’ (shen shi zun sheng shu), 1773.

The synergistic actions of the herbs are as follows:

Trichosanthes fruit (quan gua luo), Citrus fruit (zhi ke), Biota seed (bai zi ren), Linum seed (hu ma ren) : moisten the Intestines and regulate the Qi to open the bowels.

Angelica root (dang-gui): nourish the Blood to moisten the Intestines and open the bowels.

Morus fruit (sang shen zi): nourish the Blood and enrich the Kidney Essence to moisten the Intestines and open the bowels.

Rheum root & rhizome (da huang): purges the bowels.

Indications:

Constipation (actue or chronic)

Signs & Symptoms:

Constipation

Dry, hard stools

Abdominal distension with discomfort

Dry lustreless skin

Pale or sallow complexion

Dry tongue that may also be pale

Thready and wiry pulse

Combinations –

Constipation brought on or aggravated by stress:

XIAO YAO SAN

Constipation, Chronic with Spleen Qi deficiency:

BU ZHONG YI QI WAN

Constipation, post partum:

BA ZHEN WAN

SHI QUAN DA BU WAN

Constipation, stubborn or recurring:

YIN CHEN HAO WAN

Haemorrhoids:

FU GUI BA WEI WAN

TCM Syndromes: Dryness of the Intestines, Qi stagnation in the Stomach and Intestines.

TCM Actions: Moistens the Intestines, regulates the Qi and unblocks the bowels.