Cong Chi Tang
Classical TCM Formula Profile
Ingredients
| Herb Name | English Name | Historical Measure |
|---|---|---|
| Cong Bai | Scallion White | 1 handful |
| Dan Dou Chi | Prepared Soybean | 1 sheng |
Traditional Indications
Cong Chi Tang is an exterior-releasing formula for the Taiyang level. The source directs its use at the very beginning of cold damage, when headache, generalized heat, and a surging pulse first appear.
Preparation & Administration
Decoct the scallion white and prepared soybean and take the formula to obtain sweating. If no sweat occurs, add Ge Gen, 3 liang (approximately 112.5 g). The source states that Cui's version is the same.
Formula Rationale
The commentary classifies the prescription as a Foot Taiyang formula. Scallion white unblocks yang and promotes sweating. Its hollow form led the source to call it a lung vegetable, capable of dispersing pathogens from the Hand Taiyin and Yangming channels. Prepared soybean raises, disperses, and promotes sweating. When the pathogen has only just reached the exterior, this formula is taken first to release it, avoiding both the cautions associated with Ma Huang Tang and the numerous alterations made when other herbs are substituted for Ma Huang. Removing prepared soybean and adding fresh ginger produces Lian Xu Cong Bai Tang. The source states that the indication in Huo Ren Shu is the same.