Buyang Huanwu Decoction: a classic prescription for replenishing qi and activating blood circulation

Buyang Huanwu Decoction is a classic prescription recorded in "Yi Lin Gai Cuo" by Wang Qingren, a famous doctor in the Qing Dynasty.Replenishing qi, activating blood circulation, dredging collaterals and removing blood stasisAs the main effect, it is especially suitable for stroke sequelae, hemiplegia due to qi deficiency and blood stasis and other conditions. This article will start from four aspects: prescription composition, efficacy principle, applicable symptoms and modern application, and analyze this prescription clearly. The core content focuses on its treatment idea of ​​"mainly replenishing qi and supplementing by promoting blood circulation", combined with modern medical verification data to provide readers with practical reference.

1. Exquisite composition and compatibility of prescriptions

Bu Yang Huan Wu DecoctionAstragalus, angelica tail, red peony root, earthworm, chuanxiong, peach kernel, safflowerIt is composed of seven herbs, of which astragalus has the largest dosage (120 grams in the original recipe), highlighting the traditional Chinese medicine theory that "Qi moves and blood moves". Dangguiwei promotes blood circulation without damaging the body, Dilong unblocks meridians, peach kernel and safflower remove blood stasis. The overall compatibility reflects the characteristics of "tonifying the middle, unblocking, unblocking and tonifying". Wang Qingren emphasized in "Yilin Correction" that this method targets the pathogenesis of "depletion of vitality and blood stasis" and needs to be taken for a long time to be effective.

2. Efficacy principle and applicable groups

This recipe promotes blood circulation and improves microcirculation by replenishing qi, and is suitable forHemiplegia, crooked mouth and eyes, slurred speechSuch as the sequelae of stroke, it is also used in modern times for coronary heart disease and diabetic peripheral neuropathy. Clinical studies have shown that its effectiveness is over 75% (see table below). It should be noted that patients with yin deficiency and yang hyperactivity or acute cerebral hemorrhage should not use it, and the compatibility needs to be adjusted according to the doctor's advice.

3. Modern applications and precautions

Modern pharmacology has confirmed that Bu Yang Huan Wu Decoction canInhibit platelet aggregation and dilate blood vessels, often used in conjunction with rehabilitation training. Please note when taking it: the initial dose should be small and gradually increased; if reactions such as dry mouth and constipation occur, add Ophiopogon japonicus and raw rehmannia root to reconcile. Professor Zhang from Beijing University of Chinese Medicine pointed out that this prescription “focuses on persistence, and a three-month course of treatment”, and the effect is better when combined with acupuncture.

4. Summary and extended thoughts

Buyang Huanwu Decoction is based on the core concept of "removing qi, foot and blood stasis" and is a typical practice of traditional Chinese medicine of "treating wind first, treating blood, and wind will eliminate itself when blood circulates". Its value lies not only in the prescription itself, but also reflects the wisdom of overall treatment of traditional Chinese medicine. It should be emphasized that any prescription needs to be used based on syndrome differentiation. Modern patients should adjust the plan based on individual differences under the guidance of a doctor to avoid blind application.

Quote sources:
1. Source of the prescription: Wang Qingren's "Yilin Gaicuo·Volume 2"
2. Clinical data: "Chinese Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine" Issue 5, 2020
3. Expert opinion: Interview with Professor Zhang from Beijing University of Chinese Medicine (2021)