HUANG LIAN SHANG QING WAN

Coptis Pill to Clear the Upper Regions

Huang Lian Shang Qing Wan is a classical formula used to strongly clear Heat and Fire from the upper burner, particularly when Heat accumulates in the Head, Face, and Sensory Orifices. It is primarily indicated in excess Heat or Fire patterns, often affecting the eyes, ears, nose, mouth, and throat.

This formula is especially appropriate when upper-body Heat symptoms are pronounced, often accompanied by constipation, reflecting Yang Ming or Liver Fire rising.

Key actions

• Clears excess Heat and Fire

• Drains Heat from the upper burner

• Benefits the head and sensory orifices

• Relieves inflammation and pain

Herbal composition

• Huang Lian (黄连) – Coptidis Rhizoma

• Huang Qin (黄芩) – Scutellariae Radix

• Huang Bai (黄柏) – Phellodendri Cortex

• Zhi Zi (栀子) – Gardeniae Fructus

• Lian Qiao (连翘) – Forsythiae Fructus

• Bo He (薄荷) – Menthae Haplocalycis Herba

• Jing Jie (荆芥) – Schizonepetae Herba

• Chuan Xiong (川芎) – Chuanxiong Rhizoma

• Dang Gui (当归) – Angelicae Sinensis Radix

• Da Huang (大黄) – Rhei Radix et Rhizoma

• Mang Xiao (芒硝) – Natrii Sulfas

Clinical indications

Traditionally used in presentations such as:

• Headache or dizziness due to Heat

• Red, painful, or swollen eyes

• Ear pain or tinnitus

• Toothache or gum inflammation

• Sore throat

• Mouth ulcers

• Constipation

• Red tongue with yellow coating

• Rapid or forceful pulse

Pattern focus

This formula treats excess Heat and Fire rising upward, often involving Yang Ming or Liver channels, with Heat also accumulating internally.
Symptoms arise from strong pathogenic Heat, not deficiency or Cold.

Cautions

• Contraindicated in deficiency patterns or Yin deficiency

• Not intended for long-term use

• Use with caution due to the purgative herbs

• Discontinue once excess Heat has cleared