Shi-Gao-Tang

Chinese Herbal Formulas That Release Exterior Interior Excess

Shi Gao Tang  -  Gypsum Decoction

Main Actions for Shi Gao Tang

The main functions of this alternative medicine herbal formula are to clear heat and toxicity while releasing the exterior.  This is generally a injury from wind cold where heat blazes in the interior while the exterior conditions still lingers.

Indications and Symptoms for Shi Gao Tang

strong fever, chills, no sweat, headache, heaviness and tightness throughout the body.  red face, red eyes, dry nasal passages, thirst, irritability, insomnia, possible delirium, nose bleed, coughing up blood, skin blotches

Tongue – red body

Pulse – rapid, slippery, flooding

Medicinal Ingredients of Shi Gao Tang

Shi Gao  (Gypsum, Gypsum) - 6g.

-clears heat, soothes irritability

Ma Huang  (Herba Ephedrae, Ephedra Stem, Ma-huang) - 9g.

-releases exterior, induces sweat

Dan Dou Chi  (Semen Sojae Praeparatum, Prepared Soybean) - 9g.

-release exterior, soothes irritability

Huang Lian  (Rhizoma Coptidis, Coptis Rhizome) - 6g.

-relieve toxicity, clears interior heat

Huang Qin  (Radix Scutellariae Baicalensis, Baical Skullcap Root, Scutellaria, Scute) - 6g.

-relieve toxicity, clears interior heat

Huang Bai  (Cortex Phellodendri, Amur Cork-tree Bark, Phellodendron) - 6g.

-relieve toxicity, clears interior heat

Zhi Zi  (Fructus Gardeniae Jasminoidis, Cape Jasmine Fruit, Gardenia) - 6-9g.

-relieve toxicity, clears interior heat

Preparation Instructions of Shi Gao Tang

This TCM herbal formula should induce sweating to release the exterior.  The normal dosage of Shi Gao (gypsum) used today is between 15-30 grams.

Additional Points on Shi Gao Tang

This chinese medicine formula may be used to treat acute infections, abscesses, erysipelas, cholecystitis, pancreatitis, appendicitis and acute pelvic inflammatory disease (PID).c