CLINICAL APPLICATIONS

* Thirst and dryness due to Lung and Stomach yin deficiencies

* Chronic consumptive disorders with dryness and body fluids deficiency

* Lung disorders with chronic consumptive characteristics: post-infective cough, chronic bronchitis, laryngitis, bronchiectasis, tuberculosis, non-specific pneumonia, and smoking-related complications

* Stomach disorders with chronic consumptive characteristics: oral lesions, thirst, dryness of the mouth, nausea, vomiting, stomach and duodenal ulcers, gastritis, constipation and dry stools

* Cancer: dryness and thirst associated with chemotherapy and radiation

* Antibiotic-related side effects, such as dryness, thirst, and weakness

* Sjögren’s syndrome with dry eyes and mouth

 

WESTERN THERAPEUTIC ACTIONS

* General tonic effect to improve overall health

* Antitussive and expectorant effect to benefit the respiratory tract

* Antiulcer effect to benefit the gastrointestinal tract

* General hepatoprotective and detoxification effects

* Regulatory effect on the endocrine system to balance hormones

 

CHINESE THERAPEUTIC ACTIONS

* Nourishes Lung and Stomach yin

* Replenishes body fluids

* Harmonizes the middle jiao

 

DOSAGE

Take 3 to 4 capsules three times daily. For maximum effect, take the herbs on an empty stomach with one tall glass of warm water and honey.

 

INGREDIENTS

Bai He (Bulbus Lilii)

Bei Sha Shen (Radix Glehniae)

Da Zao (Fructus Jujubae)

Geng Mi (Semen Oryzae)

Mai Dong (Radix Ophiopogonis)

Nan Sha Shen (Radix Adenophorae)

Tian Dong (Radix Asparagi)

Xi Yang Shen (Radix Panacis Quinquefolii)

Zhi Gan Cao (Radix et Rhizoma Glycyrrhizae Praeparata cum Melle)

 

BACKGROUND

Chronic or consumptive disorders are often characterized by weakness, dryness, and lack of elasticity of the tissues. These chronic or consumptive disorders affect various parts of the body, including muscles and internal organs. As a result, the tissues lose their elasticity and become weak and dry. From traditional Chinese medicine perspective, these types of chronic or consumptive disorders are diagnosed as “dryness” with “body fluids deficiency.”

 

FORMULA EXPLANATION

Nourish (Fluids) is designed to treat various disorders due to dryness and body fluid deficiencies. Such deficiencies often occur as a result of over-work, over-exhaustion, chronic illness, dietary imbalances and chronic exposure to environmental toxins. The purpose of this formula is to strengthen the body, moisten dryness, replenish body fluids, and restore the body to its optimal health.

        Mai Dong (Radix Ophiopogonis) and Tian Dong (Radix Asparagi) are the chief herbs that enter the Lung and the Stomach to quickly replenish yin, relieve thirst and moisten dryness. Bei Sha Shen (Radix Glehniae), Nan Sha Shen (Radix Adenophorae) and Bai He (Bulbus Lilii) assist the chief herbs to nourish the yin and replenish the body fluids to relieve dryness. Xi Yang Shen (Radix Panacis Quinquefolii) nourishes both yin and qi to relieve fatigue or weakness that may be associated with yin deficiency. It is also slightly cool in property to clear the deficiency heat symptoms associated with yin deficiency. Geng Mi (Semen Oryzae), Da Zao (Fructus Jujubae), and Zhi Gan Cao (Radix et Rhizoma Glycyrrhizae Praeparata cum Melle) harmonize the formula and tonify the middle jiao.

        In summary, this is an excellent formula to moisten dryness and replenish body fluids. It is most beneficial in individuals who have chronic consumptive disorders, or ones with such deficiencies caused by overwork or exhaustion.

 

CAUTIONS & CONTRAINDICATIONS

* This formula is contraindicated in cases of excess heat or dampness.

 

CLINICAL NOTES

* In addition to the clinical applications listed above, this is also an excellent formula to use in diseases characterized by yin and/or body fluid deficiency, such as bronchitis, bronchial asthma, pneumonia, laryngopharyngitis, hoarse voice, whooping cough, tuberculosis, diabetes mellitus, hypertension, and arteriosclerosis. However, this formula should not be taken by itself when there is an active infection or inflammation. Another formula is needed to treat infection and/or inflammation.

 

Pulse Diagnosis by Dr. Jimmy Wei-Yen Chang:

* Dryness: floating pulse, a pulse which can only be detected at the superficial (top) level with minimal pressure.

 

SUPPLEMENTARY FORMULAS

* For chronic respiratory disorder, add Respitrol (Deficient).

* For stomach or duodenal ulcer, add GI Care.

* For chronic constipation or constipation due to dryness, add Gentle Lax (Deficient).

* For diabetes, add Equilibrium.

* For hepatitis, add Liver DTX.

* For hair loss, add Polygonum 14.

* For nausea, vomiting and fatigue after chemotherapy and radiation therapy, add C/R Support.

* For terminal stage cancer, add CA Support.

* For qi, blood, yin and yang deficiencies, add Imperial Tonic.

* For cough, add Respitrol (CF).

* For excess fire or fever, add Gardenia Complex.

* For Sjögren’s syndrome with swollen glands, add Herbal ENT and Resolve (AI).

* For menopause with yin-deficient heat, add Balance (Heat).

* For Kidney yin deficiency, add Nourish or Kidney Tonic (Yin).

* For vaginal dryness, add Balance Spring.

 

ACUPUNCTURE TREATMENT

Traditional Points:

* Fuliu (KI 7), Taixi (KI 3), Chize (LU 5)

* Feishu (BL 13), Pishu (BL 20), Lianquan (CV 23)

 

Classic Master Tung's Points:

* Bronchiectasis: Dajian (T 11.01), Xiaojian (T 11.02), Linggu (T 22.05), Dabai (T 22.04), Sanzhong (T 77.07), Chongzi (T 22.01), Chongxian (T 22.02), Feiqiyi (T 44.25)*, Feiqier (T 44.26)*

* Laryngitis: Linggu (T 22.05), Dabai (T 22.04), Chongzi (T 22.01), Chongxian (T 22.02), Yizhong (T 77.05), Erzhong (T 77.06), Sanzhong (T 77.07), Shiyin (T 88.32), Fenjin (T 44.01), Waisanguan (T 77.27), Zuqianjin (T 77.24), Zuwujin (T 77.25). Bleed dark veins nearby Quling (T 33.16), Shaoshang (LU 11), Cesanli (T 77.22), Cexiasanli (T 77.23) and the throat. Bleed before needling for best result.

* Tuberculosis: Feiqier (T 44.26)*, Linggu (T 22.05), Shuijin (T 1010.20), Shuitong (T 1010.19), Simashang (T 88.18), Simazhong (T 88.17), Simaxia (T 88.19), Sihuashang (T 77.08), Sihuazhong (T 77.09), Sihuaxia (T 77.11). Bleed the HT and LU area in the back. Bleed before needling for best result.

* Nausea: Tushui (T 22.11), Xinling (T 33.17)*, Sihuashang (T 77.08), Menjin (T 66.05), Linggu (T 22.05), Xinmen (T 33.12), Tianhuangfu [Shenguan] (T 77.18)

* Vomiting: Tushui (T 22.11), Xinling (T 33.17)*, Sihuashang (T 77.08), Menjin (T 66.05), Linggu (T 22.05), Xinmen (T 33.12). Bleed near Yamen (GV 15). Bleed before needling for best result. 

* Duodenal ulcer: Linggu (T 22.05), Dabai (T 22.04), Tushui (T 22.11), Tongwei (T 88.10), Tongshen (T 88.09), Sihuashang (T 77.08), Shuitong (T 1010.19), Shuijin (T 1010.20), Xinmen (T 33.12), Changmen (T 33.10), Ganmen (T 33.11). Bleed dark veins nearby the ST channel on the lower limb. Bleed before needling for best result.

 

Master Tung’s Points by Dr. Chuan-Min Wang:

* Chronic consumptive disorders, Stomach and Lung yin deficiency: Tongshen (T 88.09), Tongwei (T 88.10), Tongbei (T 88.11), Tianhuangfu [shenguan] (T 77.18)

 

Balance Method by Dr. Richard Tan:

* Left side: Linggu (T 22.05), Hegu (LI 4), Rangu (KI 2), Dazhong (KI 4), Fuliu (KI 7)

* Right side: Neiguan (PC 6), Zusanli (ST 36), Feiyang (BL 58)

* Alternate sides in between treatments.

 

Auricular Medicine by Dr. Li-Chun Huang:

* Hoarseness: Glottis, Larynx, Mouth, Trachea, Spleen, Lung, San Jiao, Endocrine

 

NUTRITION

* Increase intake of foods that nourish yin and moisten dryness, such as Mexican yam, yam, radishes, potatoes, carrots, melons, cucumbers, beets, turnips, malanga, celeriac, taro, rutabaga, and millet.

* Decrease intake of warm and hot natured foods that damage qi and yin, such as:

§ certain fruits like mango and durian that produce heat.

§ stimulants like coffee, alcohol, and energy drinks.

§ spicy/pungent/aromatic vegetables such as pepper, garlic, onions, basil, rosemary, cumin, funnel, anise, leeks, chives, scallions, thyme, saffron, wormwood, mustard, chili pepper, and wasabi.

* Avoid food and drinks with artificial coloring.

* Consume as few meat products as possible. Do not eat processed meats, such as lunch meats, hot dogs and sausages, as they contain nitrites that are associated with inflammation and chronic disease.

 

The Tao of Nutrition by Dr. Maoshing Ni and Cathy McNease:

* Thirst: Drink bok choy and cucumber juice.

* Thirst, irritability, and sore throat: Drink fresh, raw watercress juice.

* Yin and blood deficiencies: Eat steamed chicken eggs.

* Clear heat: Eat lightly steamed broccoli.

 

LIFESTYLE INSTRUCTIONS

* Patients with chronic consumptive diseases (such as cancer and chronic disorders of lung or stomach) should receive concurrent treatments to eliminate the cause and replenish the fluids.

* Engage in regular exercise.

* Avoid stress whenever possible.

 

CASE STUDIES

* M.M., a 65-year-old male, presented with chronic dry cough. Symptoms of thirst, dryness, constipation, and poor appetite were also present. The patient had a tendency to overwork himself as a massage therapist with long hours. The patient had been treated with various medications including Concerta (methylphenidate) for attention deficit disorder (ADD) and BuSpar (buspirone) for depression. The practitioner diagnosed the condition as Kidney yin deficiency and Liver blood deficiency. His Western diagnosis was ADD and bronchitis. The patient was given Nourish (Fluids) to nourish the yin. With the Nourish (Fluids) the patient experienced great results, including improvement in digestion and breathing. Additional areas that improved were gum health, urinary stream, and mental focus. The patient was very happy with the results of the formula. Submitted by K.F., Honolulu, Hawaii.

* C.R., a 56-year-old female, presented with hot flashes. Additional symptoms included difficulty sleeping, dry mouth, anxiety and depression. It was noted that her palpitations and sweating were constant. The practitioner diagnosed this condition as Kidney yin-deficient heat. Nourish (Fluids), Kidney Tonic (Yin), and Balance (Heat) were prescribed. As a result of taking the Kidney Tonic (Yin) with Balance (Heat), she noticed less heat sensation, decrease in both anxiety and sleep difficulty, but still sweating slightly. Afterwards, taking Kidney Tonic (Yin) with Nourish (Fluids), the patient was no longer experiencing the dry mouth and thirst. Submitted by J.C., Rosemead, California.

* J.N., a 59-year-old female, presented with a chronic, dry hacking cough. Additional symptoms included shortness of breath, dry hair and nails. Blood pressure was 120/80 mmHg and heart rate was 78 beats per minute. The practitioner diagnosed this condition as Lung and Kidney qi and yin deficiencies. Respitrol (Deficient) and Nourish (Fluids) were prescribed. As a result of taking the herbs, the cough became looser and not as painful. She was also able to cough a little sputum up and improvement of her hair and nails was also seen. Submitted by J.M., Breckenridge, Colorado.

 

PHARMACOLOGICAL AND CLINICAL RESEARCH

Nourish (Fluids) is a unique formula as it is composed of herbs that have general protective and restorative effects on various systems in the body. Herbs in this formula are very beneficial in individuals who are recovering from chronic consumptive disorders, or diseases characterized by dryness and deficiency of body fluids. Clinically, this is an excellent formula to treat chronic and consumptive illnesses characterized by compromised functions of the respiratory, gastrointestinal, hepatic, and endocrine systems.

        Nourish (Fluids) contains many herbs with marked influences on the respiratory system. For example, Bai He (Bulbus Lilii) and Zhi Gan Cao (Radix et Rhizoma Glycyrrhizae Praeparata cum Melle) both have marked antitussive and expectorant effects.[1] Clinically, these herbs have shown beneficial effects to treat chronic consumptive lung diseases, such as chronic bronchitis, bronchiectasis, tuberculosis, non-specific pneumonia, pulmonary tuberculosis, and complications of smoking.[2]

        Nourish (Fluids) has many herbs that influence and improve the overall gastrointestinal functions. Individuals with chronic illnesses often have dysfunction of the gastrointestinal system, where nutrients from foods cannot be properly digested and absorbed. For example, Zhi Gan Cao (Radix et Rhizoma Glycyrrhizae Praeparata cum Melle) has a marked effect on the gastrointestinal tract to prevent and treat peptic ulcers, with mechanisms such as inhibition of gastric acid secretion, binding and deactivation of gastric acid, and promotion of recovery from ulceration.[3] Clinically, many herbs in this formula may be used to treat gastrointestinal disorders, such as Bai He (Bulbus Lilii) for treatment of atrophic gastritis,[4] and Zhi Gan Cao (Radix et Rhizoma Glycyrrhizae Praeparata cum Melle) for treatment of peptic ulcer and intestinal spasms.[5]^,[6]

        Individuals with chronic liver disorders often have underlying weakness and deficiency of the hepatic system. Nourish (Fluids) utilizes herbs with hepatoprotective effects specifically to address such disorders. For example, the use of Zhi Gan Cao (Radix et Rhizoma Glycyrrhizae Praeparata cum Melle) is associated with an increased amount of cytochrome p450 in the liver, which is responsible for the protective effect of the herb on the liver against chemicals or tetrachloride-induced liver damage and liver cancer.[7] In addition, use of glycyrrhizin, an active component in Zhi Gan Cao (Radix et Rhizoma Glycyrrhizae Praeparata cum Melle), is associated with a 77% rate of effectiveness in treating 30 patients with hepatitis B. The mechanism of this effect has been attributed to the action of the herb to reduce the damage to and death of liver cells, decrease inflammatory reaction, promote regeneration of liver cells, and lower the risk of liver cirrhosis and necrosis.[8]

        Chronic and consumptive disorders are often related in part to the dysfunction of the endocrine system and the related glands. According to one study, 8 out of 9 patients with declining pituitary function were treated successfully by taking an herbal combination that contains Zhi Gan Cao (Radix et Rhizoma Glycyrrhizae Praeparata cum Melle) as the main ingredient for two to three months.[9] Specifically, Zhi Gan Cao (Radix et Rhizoma Glycyrrhizae Praeparata cum Melle) has been shown to have a potent effect to stimulate the production of the adrenocortical hormones, such as glucocorticoids and mineralocorticoids. Administration of glycyrrhizin and glycyrrhetinic, two ingredients of Gan Cao (Radix et Rhizoma Glycyrrhizae), clearly prolonged the therapeutic effect of cortisone as demonstrated by various laboratory studies. The same components also increase the mineralocorticoid effect to balance the water and electrolyte levels in the body.[10]

        Nourish (Fluids) contains herbs with general effects that improve the overall health and facilitate recovery from chronic illnesses. For example, use of Zhi Gan Cao (Radix et Rhizoma Glycyrrhizae Praeparata cum Melle) is associated with effects to increase body weight, muscle strength, and physical endurance.[11] Xi Yang Shen (Radix Panacis Quinquefolii) and Bai He (Bulbus Lilii) have an adaptogenic effect that improves both mental and physical health and performance.[12],[13] Lastly, use of Mai Dong (Radix Ophiopogonis) daily in 100 geriatric patients is associated with a significant improvement in their overall health.[14]

        Nourish (Fluids) incorporates many herbs that are beneficial for patients with cancer. Cancer is often diagnosed in traditional Chinese medicine as an excess condition (heat, phlegm, and toxins) that consume yin and body fluids. Furthermore, cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy and radiation, further damage the body and cause more weakness and deficiency. To address these conditions, this formula uses herbs to support patients with cancer and alleviate general side effects associated with chemotherapy and radiation. For example, Tian Dong (Radix Asparagi) has been shown to be very effective in supporting/treating 42 patients with breast cancer and malignant lymphoma.[15]^,[16] Furthermore, according to one clinical study, use of Xi Yang Shen (Radix Panacis Quinquefolii) is associated with a significant reduction of side effects related to chemotherapy and radiation, such as dry mouth, nausea, and vomiting.[17]

        In summary, Nourish (Fluids) is an excellent adjunct formula for treatment of chronic and consumptive illnesses characterized by compromised functions of the respiratory, gastrointestinal, hepatic, and endocrine systems.

 

COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS

One striking difference between Western and traditional Chinese medicine is that Western medicine focuses and excels in crisis management, while traditional Chinese medicine emphasizes and shines in holistic and preventative treatments. Therefore, in emergencies, such as gunshot wounds or surgery, Western medicine is generally the treatment of choice. However, for treatment of chronic idiopathic illness of unknown origins, where all lab tests are normal and a clear diagnosis cannot be made, traditional Chinese medicine is distinctly superior.

        The general condition of “dryness and body fluids deficiencies” may be present in many different scenarios, such as in cases of chronic consumptive disorders, chronic lung and stomach disorders, and individuals who received antibiotic, chemotherapy, and radiation treatments. All these conditions are characterized by symptoms such as thirst, dryness, and the general presence of lack of body fluids and insufficient hydration of body tissues. These are non-specific and non-diagnostic signs and symptoms. Therefore, Western medicine struggles to identify a diagnosis and treatment. On the other hand, these are obvious presentations of “dryness and body fluid deficiencies” in traditional Chinese medicine. The use of herbs that nourish yin and promote generation of body fluids is extremely beneficial to correct these imbalances and restore normal health and body functions. From a prognostic perspective, use of this formula facilitates and shortens the course of recovery from many chronic and consumptive diseases.