ZUO JIN WAN

Liver-Clearing & Stomach-Harmonizing • Fire-Draining & Acid-Relieving Formula

Symptoms

Acid Reflux: Heartburn, sour regurgitation, or "water brash" (bitter/sour fluid rising in the throat).

Epigastric Pain: Sharp or burning pain in the stomach area that may radiate to the sides (hypochondrium).

Digestive Distress: Nausea, vomiting of bitter or sour fluids, and a feeling of localized heat in the stomach.

Emotional: Pronounced irritability, anger, and a "quick fuse" that worsens digestive symptoms.

Oral Signs: Bitter taste in the mouth, dry throat, and potentially red/swollen gums.

Tongue: Red body with a yellow coating.

Pulse: Wiry (Xian) and rapid (Shuo).

Ingredients

Huang Lian
Raw Herbs 18g | Granules 85.7g

Wu Zhu Yu
Raw Herbs 3g | Granules 14.3g

Posology

Granules: 1.5 to 3g per day, divided into two doses.

Note: This formula is very potent and bitter. It is traditionally taken in small doses with warm water.

Description

Zuo Jin Wan (Left Metal Pill) is named after the Five Elements theory: "Metal" (Lungs) should control "Wood" (Liver). By "strengthening Metal," we indirectly control the Liver Fire that is "bullying" the Stomach Earth.

Huang Lian is the Chief (6 parts); it is extremely cold and bitter. It aggressively drains Liver Fire and clears Stomach Heat, stopping the burning sensation and acid production.

Wu Zhu Yu is the Deputy (1 part); though hot and acrid, it is used here in a small amount to direct the fire downward. It helps Huang Lian descend the rebellious Qi and prevents the extreme coldness of Huang Lian from causing stomach cramping or further stagnation. This is a classic "hot and cold" pairing.

Contraindications

STRICTLY CONTRAINDICATED for Acid Reflux due to Cold (clear, watery vomit, pale tongue, cold limbs).

Avoid in cases of Stomach Yin Deficiency (dry tongue, no coating) without significant modification.

Not for long-term use due to the extremely cold and bitter nature of Huang Lian, which can eventually damage the Spleen Yang.