Guizhi Formula: Treatment of Guizhi Formula Syndrome

Patients with syndromes related to the Taiyang Meridian have symptoms of chills, headache, shoulder and neck pain, along with a floating pulse. If the patients also sweats at the same time, that is “Guizhi Formula syndrome”, meaning these symptoms can be relieved by Guizhi Formula.

Guizhi Formula includes Guizhi (Ramulus Cinnamomi ), Baishaoyao (Paeonia lactiflora), Shengjiang (Ginger), Dazao (Red Dates) and Zhigancao (Licorice). After taking the Guizhi Formula, the patient should sweat slightly with alleviation of the symptoms, that is when the medication should be stopped.

There are instances where Guizhi formula should not be used. I have listed several examples of this below:

1. The patient with symptoms of chills, headache, shoulder and neck pain, and floating pulse, but NO sweat;
2. People with internal heat and dampness, such as someone who suffers from alcoholism.
3. People with excessive internal heat should not use Guizhi Formula. Misuse in this case could cause vomiting pus and blood.

(Note: Traditional Chinese medicine should be used under the guidance of a licensed professionals specialized in Chinese medicine).