Freeing Constraint™ Formulae
“Constraint” refers to Liver-Qi stagnation in its physical and emotional manifestations. Therefore this formula eliminates Liver-Qi stagnation and specifically addresses Liver-Qi stagnation. It is a variation of Zhu Dan Xi’s Yue Ju Wan Chuanxiong-Gardenia Pill.
Ingredients
Xiang Fu Rhizoma Cyperi
Cang Zhu Rhizoma Atractylodis lanceae
He Huan Pi Cortex Albiziae
Yu Jin Radix Curcumae
Yuan Zhi Radix Polygalae
Zhi Zi (Shan) Fructus Gardeniae
Shen Qu Massa Medicata Fermentata
Shi Chang Pu Rhizoma Acori tatarinowii
Qing Pi Pericarpium Citri reticulatae viride
Chuan Xiong Rhizoma Chuanxiong
Gan Cao Radix Glycyrrhizae
*Product contains gluten. Shen Qu (fermented flour)
Pattern:
Primarily stagnation of Liver-Qi, possibly also stasis of Blood, retention of food, Dampness, Phlegm and stagnation of Heat. This formula was originally used for the six Stagnations (Qi, Blood, Food, Dampness, Phlegm and Heat), but it is now used primarily for stagnation of Qi.
Action:
Move Qi, eliminate stagnation, pacify the Liver.
Tongue: Slightly red sides (Liver area).
Pulse: Wiry and full on both sides.
Caution and Contraindications:
Provided there are clear signs of stagnation and the pulse is wiry on the whole, this formula can be used for long periods of time. Contraindicated in pregnancy.
Classical Antecedent
Yue Ju Wan
Differences from Classical Antecedent
Stronger calming-the-Spirit action, action on breasts.
Explanation
Freeing Constraint™ is a well-tested variation of the classical prescription Yue Ju Wan (Ligusticum-Gardenia Pill) formulated by Zhu Dan Xi (1281-1358). He believed that mental depression derived from the “six stagnations” of Qi, Blood, Dampness, Phlegm, Heat and Food. The formula Vue Ju Wan contains five herbs to address these six stagnations (Cang-Zhu deals with both Dampness and Phlegm).
Although the formula is for the six stagnations, the emphasis is on stagnation of Qi from emotional strain. Freeing Constraint™ is extremely effective in addressing stagnation of Liver-Qi. It differs from the more famous Xiao Yao San (Free and Easy Wanderer Powder) – available as a modified version in Freeing the Moon® – in so far as it is suitable for cases when the stagnation of Liver-Qi predominates and the condition is primarily full. By contrast, Freeing the Moon® is indicated in conditions of mixed deficiency and excess, with deficiency of Liver-Blood and Spleen-Qi coupled with stagnation of Liver-Qi. The pulse and tongue are good discriminating factors between these two formulae: if the pulse is all wiry and the tongue is red, Freeing Constraint™ is indicated; if the pulse is choppy or fine overall and wiry in parts, and the tongue is pale on the sides, Freeing the Moon® is indicated.
- He Huan Pi was added to soothe the Liver and calm the Mind and the Ethereal Soul
- Jiu Jie Shi Chang Pu, Yu Jin and Yuan Zhi (Da) were added to open the Mind’s orifices and calm the Mind
- Qing Pi was added to pacify the Liver, move Qi and relieve breast distension
In severe instance of Liver-Qi deficiency leads not only to unsettling of the Mind, but also to a slight obstruction of the Mind. This formula also harmonizes Liver and Stomach and is particularly suited for stagnant Liver-Qi invading the Stomach
Disclaimer
This product is a dietary (food) supplement, to be taken as directed by a qualified practitioner. It is not intended to treat, cure, diagnose or prevent any disease. Not to replace a varied diet. Not to be taken if nursing or if pregnant. Not to be consumed continuously for longer than 3 months.