Xuán Fù Huā (Inula Flower)
🌻- Primary Action Directs Qi downward and stops vomiting.
- Secondary Action Softens hard phlegm and dissipates accumulation.
- Character Bitter, Acrid, Salty, Warm. Acts on Lung, Spleen, Stomach.
Dài Zhě Shí (Hematite)
🪨- Primary Action Strongly directs rebellious Qi downward.
- Secondary Action Settles Liver Yang and cools Blood.
- Character Bitter, Cold. Acts on Liver, Heart, Stomach.
The Dynamic of Heavy Descent
This pair is the gold standard for Rebellious Stomach Qi (hiccup, belching, nausea) and Wheezing due to phlegm obstruction. While Xuán Fù Huā (the flower that descends) targets the phlegm-fluids, Dài Zhě Shí (the heavy mineral) provides the mechanical force to anchor the Qi.
Note: Xuán Fù Huā contains irritating hairs; it must be wrapped in cheesecloth during decoction to prevent throat irritation.
Relative Action Intensity
Strength comparison in descending and transforming functions.
Pharmacological & Mineral Profile
Sesquiterpene lactones meets ferric oxide.
| Parameter | Xuán Fù Huā (Inula) | Dài Zhě Shí (Hematite) |
|---|---|---|
| Key Components | Inulicin, Britanin, Volatile oils, Flavonoids. | Ferric Oxide (Fe2O3), trace Magnesium and Aluminum. |
| Biological Mechanism | Anti-inflammatory, expectorant; relaxes bronchial smooth muscle. | Sedative effect on the CNS; hematinic properties (boosts iron). |
| Preparation | Wrapped in gauze to filter out villi/hairs. | Often pre-decocted or calcined and quenched in vinegar. |
| Safety Profile | May cause allergic reactions in individuals sensitive to Asteraceae. | Contraindicated in pregnancy; long-term use avoided due to heavy mineral content. |
| Main System Effect | Respiratory clearing, digestive motility normalization. | Neurological calming (Liver Yang), gastrointestinal anchoring. |
Formula Architecture
The "Downward Directing" (Jiàng Nì) Lineage
| Formula Name | Pair's Role | Clinical Focus |
|---|---|---|
| Xuán Fù Dài Zhě Tāng | Chief Pair | Treating hard epigastric focal distention with unremitting belching or hiccups. |
| Zhèn Gàn Xí Fēng Tāng | Yang Anchors | Subduing Liver Yang and extinguishing wind to prevent stroke and hypertension. |
Clinical Insight
This pair represents the "Gravity Restoration" dynamic. While Xuán Fù Huā acts as the Gentle Hand (softening the obstruction), Dài Zhě Shí acts as the Iron Anchor (pulling the Qì back to its source). Together, they stop the upward chaos of rebellious Stomach or Liver energy.