SHORT GUIDE TO CHINESE PATENT FORMULAS

Traditional Chinese formulas for herbal medicine are very effective for common health problems such as colds and flu, menstrual difficulties, digestive problems and high blood pressure. But the unfamiliar formulas with strange names make it difficult for many Americans to know what formulas to use for which conditions. We have prepared this guide to help you find the Chinese formula the can help you.

We have arranged this guide by condition (e.g. "Colds and Flu") or function (e.g. "Digestion"). In each section, we have described some of the more common and useful Chinese formulas and the symptoms they treat. We have also included alternative brand names for the same formula—these are brands carried at Simples Herbal Apothecary. All of the Chinese patent formulas we carry are either manufactured in the USA or manufactured in Chinese by companies certified to have Good Manufacturing Practices. The brands we carry include Planetary Formulas and Golden Flower ( USA made) and Plum Flower and Min Shan, which are manufactured in China .

COLDS AND FLU

Gan Mao Ling : one of the most popular and effective Chinese patents for colds and flu with chills and high fever; sudden fatigue; swollen lymph glands; sore throats; upper-back and neck aches. If taken prior to the onset of colds or flu it may also prevent these illnesses.

Yin Chiao (Yin Qiao): like Gan Mao Ling, Yin Chiao is commonly used in the treatment of flu, colds, sore throats, body aches, fever with chills, headaches, thirst, sore shoulders, stiff neck. Yin Chiao is best taken at the first signs of illness.

Zhong Gan Ling: this remedy, similar to Gan Mao Ling, is indicated for stronger heat conditions such as severe colds; flu; sudden, high fevers accompanied by sore throats; swollen lymph nodes; aching limbs; headaches; coughing; and slight chills. It promotes sweating. Use Zhong Gan Ling if Yin Chiao or Gan Mao Ling have been ineffective. Do not use in the presence of strong chills.

Huo Xiang Zheng Qi Wan for stomach flu; colds and flu with digestive difficulties (diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal pain with gurgling and gas, nausea); fever; chills; and headaches. Also good for weak digestion with loose stools or to alleviate morning sickness . Do not use if you have dry mouth, thirst, and fever without chills.

Chuan Xiong Cha Tiao Wan : for sudden headaches especially at back of neck or top of head, headaches resulting from a cold accompanied by chills; nasal congestion; sinusitis; and rhinitis.

Astragalu Jade Screen (Jade Screen & Xanthium, Yu Ping Feng San): for deficient, weak immune system where individual had frequentcolds and flu, sinus congestion and inflammation; sinus pain headaches; sore throat; facial swelling, allergies and rashes from allergies.