YI GUAN JIAN

Linking Decoction

Yi Guan Jian is a classical formula used to nourish Liver and Kidney Yin while gently regulating Liver Qi. It is primarily indicated in patterns of Liver–Kidney Yin deficiency with Liver Qi constraint, where deficiency and stagnation coexist.

This formula is especially appropriate when dryness, depletion, and tension are present without strong Heat or excess, often manifesting as chronic discomfort, emotional constraint, or pain along the Liver channel.

Key actions

• Nourishes Liver and Kidney Yin

• Softens and regulates Liver Qi

• Moistens dryness

• Relieves pain due to deficiency and constraint

Herbal composition

• Sheng Di Huang (生地黄) – Rehmanniae Radix

• Gou Qi Zi (枸杞子) – Lycii Fructus

• Sha Shen (沙参) – Glehniae / Adenophorae Radix

• Mai Men Dong (麦门冬) – Ophiopogonis Radix

• Dang Gui (当归) – Angelicae Sinensis Radix

• Chuan Lian Zi (川楝子) – Toosendan Fructus

Clinical indications

Traditionally used in presentations such as:

• Dull or burning pain in the hypochondrium or flanks

• Chronic abdominal discomfort

• Dry mouth or throat

• Irritability or emotional tension

• Fatigue

• Thin body constitution

• Red or dry tongue with little coating

• Thin, wiry, or deficient pulse

Pattern focus

This formula treats Liver–Kidney Yin deficiency with Liver Qi constraint.
Pain and discomfort arise from lack of nourishment combined with constrained movement, rather than excess Heat, Blood stasis, or Cold obstruction.

Cautions

• Not indicated for pain due to pure excess Liver Qi stagnation

• Use with caution in patients with weak digestion

• Adjust dosage if dryness is pronounced