为什么便秘需要用祛风的药材？

中医认为，风邪易伤津，风热之邪侵入大肠，会耗损肠道津液，导致肠燥便秘；同时风邪能动气促进肠道蠕动，帮助排便，因此祛风药材既能祛风润燥，又能助肠运化，增强排便功能。

润肠丸的核心功效有哪些？

润肠丸核心功效包括润肠通便、养血活血，同时兼具泻热导滞、祛风升清，精准针对肠燥津亏、血虚瘀滞、燥热内结所致便秘，实现标本兼治。

润肠丸主要适合哪些人群？

润肠丸主要适合肠燥津亏型便秘、血虚兼瘀型便秘、风热燥结型便秘，老年体虚便秘，肠道功能紊乱导致便秘的人群。

润肠丸有哪些核心适应症？

润肠丸适用于肠燥津亏型便秘（大便干结如羊粪，排便费力，伴口干舌燥等）、血虚瘀滞型便秘（大便干结，排便不畅，便后不尽感，伴面色少华等）、风热燥结型便秘（大便干结，腹胀腹痛，口干口苦等）、习惯性便秘（长期便秘，大便干结，服用泻下药物易反弹等）。

润肠丸在现代临床有哪些拓展应用？

润肠丸可辅助治疗痔疮术后恢复、肛裂、慢性结肠炎便秘型、产后便秘及肿瘤化疗后便秘，帮助润肠通便、养血活血及缓解相关症状。

润肠丸的用法用量是怎样的？

急性便秘服用3-5天症状缓解后停药；慢性便秘连续服用2-4周为1个疗程，症状改善后可减量或停药，长期调理应遵医嘱。大蜜丸需嚼服或分小份吞服，空腹服用效果更佳。

润肠丸有哪些禁忌人群？

孕妇忌服；对本品成分过敏者禁用；肠道梗阻、结肠癌等器质性疾病所致便秘者忌用。

服用润肠丸应注意哪些事项？

服药期间饮食应清淡，忌辛辣油腻生冷油炸食物，戒烟戒酒，多吃蔬果和粗粮，多喝水，适当运动；不宜同时服用滋补性中药；不可长期连续服用；症状无缓解或加重应停药就医；儿童老年体弱者应在医师指导下服用；避免药物相互作用；药品密封保存避免潮湿暴晒。

Purgative Formulas

潤腸丸 · Rùn Cháng Wán

Run Chang Wan

A classical formula for constipation from blood deficiency and intestinal dryness, common after illness or in the elderly.

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Last reviewed August 2026

Formula CategoryPurgative Formulas

Primary PatternBlood Deficiency

Primary FunctionNourish blood, moisten intestines, move stool

Primary Therapeutic PrincipleNourish blood and moisten dry intestines

Main HerbsHemp Seed · Peach Kernel · Chinese Angelica Root · Raw Rehmannia Root · Bitter Orange

Classical SourceLi Dongyuan school / classical

Why This Formula?

Traditionally selected for constipation from blood deficiency and intestinal dryness, rather than heat-dryness spleen-constraint or Kidney Yang deficiency constipation.

Overview

What Is Run Chang Wan?

1. Recorded in the Classical Literature

Run Chang Wan (润肠丸), or Moisten the Intestines Pill, is a classical formula associated with Li Dongyuan’s Pi Wei Lun (Treatise on the Spleen and Stomach) and later refined in Qing-dynasty texts such as Shen Shi Zun Sheng Shu. It belongs to the category of formulas that moisten the Intestines and unblock the bowels.

This formula addresses constipation caused by Blood and fluid deficiency with dryness of the Intestines, a pattern commonly seen in the elderly, after childbirth, or following prolonged illness. Typical signs include dry, hard stools that are difficult to pass, possible dizziness or palpitations, a pale or dry tongue, and a thin pulse, without the strong Heat signs of the Yangming-fu pattern.

Combining oily seeds such as Huo Ma Ren and Tao Ren to moisten and lubricate the Intestines, Dang Gui and Sheng Di Huang to nourish Blood and Yin and further generate fluids, and Zhi Ke to gently move Qi and prevent stagnation, Run Chang Wan effectively moistens dryness, nourishes Blood, and restores comfortable bowel movement without harsh purgation.

2. Treating Common Constipation Types

Target Profile: Run Chang Wan is highly effective for constipation driven by a mix of trapped gastrointestinal heat and depleted blood/fluids.
Classic Symptoms: Patients who benefit most often experience dry, hard stools (sometimes resembling sheep pellets) that are very difficult to pass. This is frequently accompanied by a dry mouth, restlessness, poor sleep, and a pale or dull complexion.
Expected Outcomes: When used correctly, the formula generally provides short-term relief to get the bowels moving. As the intestinal environment becomes healthier and more lubricated, the other uncomfortable symptoms naturally begin to fade.

3. Cautions for Special Populations

Pregnancy: This formula is strictly contraindicated for pregnant women. Even though it contains nourishing herbs, the strong downward, purgative action of Da Huang poses a risk to the pregnancy.
Elderly and Children: Dosage must be carefully adjusted. Older adults naturally have weaker organ functions and require gentler doses. For children, the dosage must be precisely calculated based on age and body weight to avoid giving too much or too little.
Chronic Conditions: Patients managing chronic illnesses like hypertension or diabetes should be closely monitored. It is important to consult a healthcare provider to ensure the herbs in this formula do not interact with existing prescription medications.

How It Works

Herb Composition (Sovereign / Minister / Assistant / Envoy)

1. Chief Herb: Da Huang

The Role: Da Huang (Rhubarb) serves as the primary "Chief" herb in Run Chang Wan.
The Action: It has a powerful purgative effect that clears out accumulation and sweeps the intestines clean. Its active compounds stimulate the intestinal lining, promote bowel movements, and effectively relieve constipation. By quickly breaking through blockages, it ensures waste is smoothly expelled from the body.

2. Deputy Herb: Dang Gui

The Role: Dang Gui (Angelica Root) acts as the "Deputy," supporting the chief herb by focusing on nourishment.
The Action: It nourishes and invigorates the blood while moistening the intestines. When the digestive tract has sufficient blood and fluids, its natural downward movement functions normally. By addressing blood deficiency, Dang Gui repairs the root cause of dryness, helping Da Huang do its job more effectively and gently.

3. Assistant Herb: Qiang Huo

The Role: Qiang Huo (Notopterygium Root) plays a unique "Assistant" role.
The Action: While its main job is usually to dispel wind, cold, and dampness from the body's surface, here it acts as a pathfinder. External pathogens can disrupt the digestive system; by clearing these away, Qiang Huo helps restore normal Spleen and Stomach function. This opens the pathways, allowing the primary herbs to reach the intestines without interference.

4. Envoy Herbs: Ma Zi Ren and Tao Ren

The Role: Ma Zi Ren (Hemp Seed) and Tao Ren (Peach Kernel) work together as the "Envoys" to guide the formula to the bowels.
The Action: Both herbs are rich in natural oils that lubricate the digestive tract and soften stool. Additionally, Tao Ren helps to invigorate blood circulation. Together, they enhance the formula's laxative power, ensuring the herbal effects go exactly where they are needed to provide smooth, comfortable relief.

Symptoms Traditionally Associated

Clinical Presentation in TCM

1. Pathomechanism Analysis

The Root Cause: This formula targets constipation caused by depleted intestinal fluids and a lack of Qi and Blood.
How It Happens: In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the Spleen and Stomach are the source of blood and energy. If they are weak, the intestines lose their nourishment and become dry. Without enough moisture (Yin and fluids), the bowels lose their ability to move waste, leading to stubborn constipation. Factors like poor diet and chronic stress can make this dryness even worse.

2. Efficacy

The Strategy: Run Chang Wan works by simultaneously unblocking the bowels and deeply nourishing the body.
The Result: Herbs like Da Huang, Ma Zi Ren, and Tao Ren clear out the physical backup, while Dang Gui restores the missing blood and moisture. This balanced approach treats both the symptom (the blockage) and the root cause (the dryness), restoring long-term healthy bowel function rather than just forcing a quick fix.

3. Indications

Target Symptoms: This formula is designed for people suffering from constipation due to internal heat buildup and Yin/blood deficiency.
What It Looks Like: Patients typically experience dry, hard stools that are difficult to pass, often going several days without a bowel movement. This is frequently accompanied by a dry mouth and throat, dizziness, palpitations, and poor sleep. It is also highly effective for improving the fatigue and pale, sallow complexion that often comes with chronic constipation.

Formula Analysis

The Mechanism in Classical Theory

1. Overall Formulation Strategy

A Balanced Approach: The design of Run Chang Wan is based on a deep understanding of what causes stubborn constipation. Because it targets both internal heat accumulation and a lack of Yin/blood, it uses a strategy that both "clears" and "nourishes" at the same time.
Targeting Root and Symptom: Da Huang acts as the heavy lifter, aggressively clearing out the trapped heat and waste to provide immediate relief. Meanwhile, Dang Gui addresses the root cause by nourishing the blood and fluids, physically restoring the intestinal environment.
Guiding the Action: Qiang Huo adjusts the body's overall energy flow, creating the perfect conditions for the other herbs to work. Finally, Ma Zi Ren and Tao Ren enhance the lubricating effect, guiding the combined herbal power directly to the bowels for maximum effectiveness.

2. Herbal Synergy

Clearing Without Draining: When Da Huang is combined with the natural oils of Ma Zi Ren and Tao Ren, the formula clears out waste efficiently without being overly harsh or drying out the body's precious fluids.
Nourishing While Moving: The combination of Dang Gui with the purgative and lubricating herbs ensures that as the bowels are prompted to move, they are simultaneously bathed in rich, nourishing blood.
System-Wide Support: By gently releasing external tension, Qiang Huo helps the Spleen and Stomach function optimally. This synergy shows the brilliance of TCM formulation: addressing a localized digestive issue by harmonizing the entire body.

How This Formula Compares

Clinical Comparison Table

Compare	Run Chang Wan	Ma Zi Ren Wan	Ji Chuan Jian
Primary Function	Nourish blood, moisten intestines, move stool	Moisten intestines, drain heat, move stool	Warm Kidney, nourish blood, moisten intestines, move stool
Formula Category	Purgative Formulas	Purgative Formulas	Purgative Formulas
Typical TCM Pattern	Blood Deficiency	Stomach Heat	Yang Deficiency
Main Conditions	Constipation	Constipation	Constipation
Main Herbs	Hemp Seed · Peach Kernel · Chinese Angelica Root · Raw Rehmannia Root · Bitter Orange	Hemp Seed · White Peony Root · Immature Bitter Orange · Rhubarb Root and Rhizome · Magnolia Bark · Bitter Apricot Kernel	Chinese Angelica Root · Achyranthes Root · Cistanche · Alisma Rhizome · Cimicifuga Rhizome · Bitter Orange
Classical Source	Li Dongyuan school / classical	Shang Han Lun (Zhang Zhongjing, Eastern Han)	Li Dongyuan school / classical

How to tell them apart

Run Chang Wan, Ma Zi Ren Wan and Ji Chuan Jian all moisten or move the stool. Ma Zi Ren Wan moistens and gently drains heat dryness; Ji Chuan Jian warms Kidney Yang for deficiency constipation. Run Chang Wan nourishes blood to moisten dry intestines for blood-deficiency constipation.

For educational reference only, based on traditional pattern differentiation — not a substitute for professional advice.

Clinical Modifications

Clinical Modifications for Run Chang Wan

1. Adjustments for Specific Symptoms

To maximize the effectiveness of the formula, practitioners often customize it based on a patient's unique presentation:

For Abdominal Bloating: If constipation is accompanied by severe bloating, herbs like Hou Po and Mu Xiang can be added. These help to promote Qi circulation in the intestines and relieve the feeling of fullness.
For Severe Dryness: When a patient experiences intense dry mouth and throat, adding Xuan Shen and Mai Dong helps to further nourish the body's Yin fluids and alleviate the dryness.
For Qi Deficiency: If the patient shows signs of weak energy—such as shortness of breath, chronic fatigue, or spontaneous sweating—practitioners might add Huang Qi and Dang Shen. These herbs boost vital energy (Qi) and strengthen the Spleen, improving overall physical health while treating the constipation.

2. Adjustments Based on Body Constitution

Cold Constitution: For individuals who naturally run cold, the dosage of the cooling herb Da Huang is typically reduced. Warming herbs like Gan Jiang and Rou Gui are added to warm the digestive system and protect the body's natural Yang energy.
Heat Constitution: For those who easily overheat, the dose of Da Huang may be increased. Additional heat-clearing herbs like Huang Lian and Huang Qin might also be included to enhance the formula's ability to purge excess internal fire.

Modern Research

What the Science Suggests

1. Pharmacological Studies

Modern scientific research has provided insights into how this traditional formula works at a physiological level:

Stimulating Motility: Studies show that the active components in Da Huang stimulate nerve endings in the gut, promoting smooth muscle contraction and significantly increasing bowel movement frequency.
Improving Circulation: Ingredients like ferulic acid found in Dang Gui provide antioxidant benefits and improve blood flow to the intestinal tract, creating a healthier environment for digestive recovery.
Natural Lubrication: The natural fatty oils present in Ma Zi Ren and Tao Ren act as effective lubricants, lowering the viscosity of the stool and making it much easier to pass.

2. Clinical Efficacy Validation

Symptom Relief: Numerous clinical trials have confirmed that this formula effectively alleviates constipation by increasing bowel movement frequency, shortening the time it takes to pass stool, and softening hard, dry feces.
Holistic Benefits: Compared to standard laxatives, this formula not only relieves constipation but also improves the patient's overall well-being, including better skin complexion and higher energy levels.
Safety Profile: When prescribed correctly and used reasonably, clinical data supports its safety, showing very few adverse side effects.

Safety

Safety Considerations

1. Dietary Restrictions

While taking Run Chang Wan, avoid spicy, greasy, and irritating foods, such as chili peppers and fried foods, as they may increase the intestinal burden and reduce treatment effectiveness. Limit alcohol, and eat more fiber-rich foods, including vegetables, fruits, and whole grains, to support bowel movements.

2. Contraindications in Special Situations

As noted above, Run Chang Wan is contraindicated during pregnancy and should not be used by anyone allergic to its ingredients. Stop taking it and seek medical attention if severe abdominal pain or excessive diarrhea occurs. If further treatment is needed after symptoms improve, reassess the treatment plan under medical supervision.

Available Products

Where to Get It

HJMEDICAL Hoi Tin Run Chang Wan (Moisten the Intestines Pill) 5:1 Concentrated Granules $30.50

HJMEDICAL Nong's Run Chang Wan (Moisten the Intestines Pill) 5:1 Concentrated Granules $44.83

HJMEDICAL Nong's Ma Zi Ren Wan (Hemp Seed Pill) 5:1 Concentrated Granules $59.81

HJMEDICAL Nong's Ji Chuan Jian (Benefit the River Decoction) 5:1 Concentrated Granules $54.46

FAQ

Questions About Run Chang Wan

Q1: What are the actions of Run Chang Wan?

Run Chang Wan has the actions of moistening the Intestines, nourishing Blood and fluids, and gently unblocking the bowels. It is used for dry, hard stools caused by Blood and fluid deficiency rather than by harsh excess Heat or Cold.

Q2: Which modern diseases is Run Chang Wan suited to?

Modern TCM clinical practice commonly applies it to individuals whose pattern differentiation falls within intestinal dryness from Blood and fluid insufficiency, including habitual constipation in the elderly, postpartum constipation, constipation after febrile illness or blood loss, and functional constipation with dry pellet-like stools and signs of Blood deficiency.

Q3: Is Run Chang Wan suitable for improving dry, hard stools that are difficult to pass?

For presentations of dry, hard, pellet-like stools with difficult or infrequent bowel movements, possible dry mouth, pale or sallow complexion, dizziness or fatigue, a pale tongue with little coating, and a thin pulse — in those whose pattern differentiation confirms Blood- and fluid-deficient intestinal dryness — TCM commonly applies Run Chang Wan as an adjunct. It cannot replace evaluation of chronic constipation or structural bowel disease.

Q4: Who should not take Run Chang Wan?

Pregnant women, those with Yang-deficiency Cold constipation, loose stools or diarrhea, and those with mechanical bowel obstruction are generally not suitable. Versions that contain Tao Ren or Da Huang can move Blood and stimulate the uterus. Use should be assessed by a qualified TCM physician.

Q5: Why does this formula combine oil-rich seeds with Blood-nourishing herbs?

Huo Ma Ren and Tao Ren lubricate the Intestines with their oily nature so that dry stool can pass. Dang Gui (and in many versions Sheng Di) nourishes Blood and Yin, restoring the fluid substrate that keeps the intestinal lining moist. Some versions add a small amount of Zhi Ke or processed Da Huang to gently move Qi and residual Heat without harsh purging.

Q6: How does Run Chang Wan differ from Ma Zi Ren Wan?

Ma Zi Ren Wan treats dryness-Heat constipation of the “Spleen constraint” type, with dry hard stools plus frequent urination and a mild Heat coating; it includes a moderated Xiao Cheng Qi Tang. Run Chang Wan focuses more on nourishing Blood and fluids to moisten dryness from deficiency, and is typically preferred when the complexion is pale, the pulse is thin, and Heat signs are mild or absent.

Q7: What are the main ingredients of Run Chang Wan?

Common classical versions include Huo Ma Ren and Tao Ren to moisten the Intestines; Dang Gui (often with Sheng Di Huang) to nourish Blood and Yin; and a Qi-moving herb such as Zhi Ke. Some patent and Li Dongyuan-derived versions also include a small amount of Da Huang and Qiang Huo to gently drain Heat and assist movement.

Q8: Is Run Chang Wan suitable for long-term use?

It may be used for a course of treatment in chronic Blood-deficient dryness constipation under professional supervision. Versions with Da Huang should not be taken continuously for long periods. Once stools soften and regularity returns, the formula is usually reduced or replaced by dietary and Blood-nourishing support.

Q9: Can Run Chang Wan be used for both elderly and postpartum dry constipation?

Yes, when the pattern is Blood and fluid deficiency with dry stools. Both groups commonly lose Blood and fluids (aging, childbirth, or recovery from illness), leaving the Intestines unmoistened. If Cold-Yang deficiency or severe Heat-accumulation signs predominate, a different formula is required.

Q10: What lifestyle advice supports the use of Run Chang Wan?

Increasing dietary fluids and fiber, establishing regular toilet habits, gentle daily movement, and eating Blood-nourishing rather than drying or overly spicy foods help the formula moisten the Intestines. Persistent constipation, blood in the stool, or unexplained weight loss should be properly evaluated.

FAQ

General Questions

How do I choose the right formula?

TCM formulas are traditionally selected according to individual pattern differentiation rather than by symptom alone. If you're not sure which formula fits your presentation, take our AI Assessment below for a personalized starting point, then confirm with a qualified TCM practitioner.

What are concentrated herbal granules?

Concentrated herbal granules are made by decocting raw herbs, then extracting and concentrating the resulting liquid into a fine granule or powder form. This preserves the same active compounds as a traditional decoction while making the herbs far easier to store, measure, and prepare.

How should I take these products?

Dissolve the recommended amount of granules in hot water, stir until fully dissolved, and drink while warm — following the dosage and frequency advised by your TCM practitioner or as stated on the product packaging.

Are concentrated herbal granules equivalent to traditional decoctions?

Concentrated granules are produced from the same herbs and processed to retain their active compounds, so they are traditionally regarded as a convenient alternative to decoctions rather than a different remedy. Some practitioners note subtle differences in strength or absorption between the two forms, so your TCM practitioner may adjust dosage accordingly.

Are your products authentic?

Yes. HJMEDICAL sources its concentrated granules exclusively from established, reputable manufacturers such as Nong's and Hoi Tin, both long-standing names in the TCM granules industry, with GMP compliance stated directly on their packaging.

Are HJMEDICAL products manufactured under GMP standards?

HJMEDICAL sources its concentrated granules from established, reputable manufacturers such as Nong's and Hoi Tin, both long-standing names in the TCM granules industry. GMP compliance for these products is stated directly on their packaging.

Do you ship internationally?

Yes — we ship worldwide! Every order goes out via Hong Kong Post, and your exact shipping cost and estimated delivery time for your address are calculated and shown right at checkout, so there are never any surprises. We also offer free shipping once your order reaches our free-shipping threshold, so it's easy to stock up on your favorite formulas and save.

Can I take more than one formula at the same time?

Some formulas are traditionally combined, while others overlap or counteract each other. We recommend checking with a qualified TCM practitioner before combining formulas, especially if you are already taking other medication.

Are these products suitable during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Some TCM formulas are not suitable during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Please consult a qualified TCM practitioner or your doctor before use if you are pregnant, trying to conceive, or nursing.

Do these products replace medical treatment?

No. These products are traditional herbal supplements intended to support wellbeing according to TCM principles — they are not a replacement for professional medical diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a qualified TCM practitioner or licensed healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or combining any treatment, especially if you have a chronic condition.

Medical Disclaimer

For general TCM education only — not medical advice. Consult a qualified TCM practitioner or licensed healthcare provider before use, especially if pregnant, nursing, on medication, or managing a chronic condition.

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Run Chang Wan