Exterior-Releasing Formulas

辛夷散 · Xīn Yí Sàn

Xin Yi San

A classical formula for nasal congestion and sinus-type obstruction from wind-cold, with loss of smell and frontal or vertex headache.

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Last reviewed August 2026

Formula CategoryExterior-Releasing Formulas

Primary PatternWind-Cold

Primary FunctionDisperse wind, unblock the nasal orifices

Primary Therapeutic PrincipleDisperse wind-cold and open blocked nasal passages

Main HerbsMagnolia Flower · Angelica Dahurica Root · Saposhnikovia Root · Ligusticum Root · Cimicifuga Rhizome · Akebia Stem · Chuanxiong Rhizome · Asarum / Wild Ginger

Classical SourceJi Sheng Fang (Yan Yonghe, Song dynasty)

Why This Formula?

Traditionally selected for nasal blockage and loss of smell from wind-cold — focused orifice-opening rather than general exterior release or heat-clearing sinus formulas.

Overview

What Is Xin Yi San?

1. Legend of Origin

Xin Yi San (辛夷散), or Magnolia Flower Powder, is a classical Song-dynasty formula from Yan Yonghe’s Yan Shi Ji Sheng Fang (Formulas for Aid in Living from the Yan Family). It belongs to the category of formulas that disperse Wind-Cold and unblock the nasal orifices.

This formula specifically targets Wind-Cold obstructing the nasal passages. Typical signs include nasal congestion with clear or white discharge, loss of the sense of smell, frontal or sinus headache, a heavy sensation in the head, sneezing, a pale tongue with white coating, and a floating pulse.

Centered on Xin Yi Hua as the chief herb to open the nasal orifices and disperse Wind-Cold, supported by Xi Xin, Bai Zhi, Fang Feng, Chuan Xiong, and other ascending, aromatic herbs that guide the formula to the head and sinuses, Xin Yi San disperses external pathogens, unblocks the nose, restores olfactory function, and relieves associated head discomfort.

Xinyi San: Dispersing Wind-Cold and Unblocking the Nasal Passages — Precise Resolution of Chronic Rhinitis, Sinusitis, and Nasal Congestion with Clear or White Discharge | HJMEDICAL

2. Allergic Rhinitis

Pattern: typically Lung‑qi deficiency‑cold with an unstable wei exterior.
What it helps: clear watery discharge, nasal blockage, frequent sneezing.
How to use: Xinyi San to disperse wind‑cold and open nasal passages.
Modifications:
- With Spleen‑qi weakness: add Dang Shen and Bai Zhu.
- With Kidney‑yang insufficiency: add Fu Zi and Rou Gui.
Tips: avoid cold exposure and known allergens; keep nasal passages warm and moist.

3. Sinusitis (Bi Yuan)

What it helps: turbid, persistent discharge, congestion, reduced sense of smell.
How to use: Xinyi San; adjust dosage to severity.
Modifications:
- Marked heat/toxin: add Jin Yin Hua and Lian Qiao.
- Pronounced headache: increase Chuan Xiong and Bai Zhi.
Goal: decongest, reduce mucosal swelling, ease facial pressure/pain.

4. Chronic Rhinitis

What it helps: long‑standing congestion and rhinorrhea that are hard to resolve.
How to use: Xinyi San to disperse wind‑cold, open the nose, and improve nasal mucosal circulation.
Combine with: acupuncture, gentle massage of the nasal/face points, saline irrigation as advised.
Self‑care: reduce allergen/irritant exposure, strengthen constitution, and prevent colds.

How It Works

Herb Composition (Sovereign / Minister / Assistant / Envoy)

1. Chief Herb — Xin Yi (Magnolia Flower)

Source and properties: dried flower bud of Yulan Magnolia, Wangchun Magnolia, or Wudang Magnolia (Magnoliaceae); acrid, warm; enters Lung and Stomach.
Actions: disperses wind‑cold, unblocks the nasal orifices; rises to head/face to reach the nose, disperses wind‑cold from the Lung channel to open nasal passages.
Clinical focus in Xin Yi San: used in relatively large dose as the chief to address nasal allergy and congestion with rhinorrhea.
Modern note: volatile oils and related constituents can stimulate nasal mucosa, promote local blood circulation, reduce mucosal congestion and swelling, thereby relieving nasal blockage.

2. Deputy Herb — Xi Xin (Asarum)

Properties: acrid, warm; enters Heart, Lung, Kidney.
Actions: dispels wind, disperses cold, opens orifices, relieves pain.
Synergy: with Xin Yi, strengthens wind‑cold dispersion and nasal‑opening effect; penetrates the channels to drive out wind pathogens—useful for nasal allergy with headache.
Additional benefit: warms Lung and resolves retained fluids—adjunctive help when nasal disorders present with cough and thin, clear phlegm.
Role in Xin Yi San: deputy herb assisting the chief to enhance overall efficacy.

3. Assistant Herbs — Bai Zhi (Angelica dahurica Root) and Chuan Xiong (Szechuan Lovage Rhizome)

Bai Zhi
- Properties: acrid, warm; enters Lung, Stomach, Large Intestine.
- Actions: releases exterior, disperses cold; dispels wind, relieves pain; unblocks nasal orifices; dries damp to stop discharge; reduces swelling, expels pus.
- Role: disperses wind‑cold from the Yangming channel, easing nasal allergy and headache; can also dry damp to reduce abnormal discharge when present.
Chuan Xiong
- Properties: acrid, warm; enters Liver, Gallbladder, Pericardium.
- Actions: activates blood, moves qi, dispels wind, relieves pain; rises to head/eyes—key for headache.
- Role: with Bai Zhi, reinforces wind‑dispelling, analgesic, and nasal‑opening effects; promotes blood circulation in the nasal region to aid decongestion; supports the chief and deputy.

4. Envoy Herbs — Sheng Ma (Cimicifuga Rhizome) and Fang Feng (Siler Root)

Sheng Ma
- Properties: acrid, slightly sweet; slightly cold; enters Lung, Spleen, Stomach, Large Intestine.
- Actions: releases exterior, vents rashes; clears heat, resolves toxicity; raises yang.
- Role: raises clear yang so the formula’s action ascends to the disease site (nose); assists when heat‑toxin binds in nasal disorders.
Fang Feng
- Properties: acrid, sweet; slightly warm; enters Bladder, Liver, Spleen.
- Actions: dispels wind, releases exterior; overcomes dampness; relieves pain; stops spasms.
- Role: a “universal wind herb” assisting dispersion of wind pathogens; helps regulate the ascending/descending, floating/sinking of the formula so its power is well directed—therefore serving as the envoy.

Symptoms Traditionally Associated

Clinical Presentation in TCM

1. Pathomechanism Analysis

Core mechanism: disordered Lung function with wind‑cold invading the nasal orifices. The Lung governs qi, controls respiration, and opens to the nose; when wei qi is insecure, wind‑cold easily enters, congests nasal mucosa, and causes nasal blockage with runny nose.
Progression: if unresolved, constrained wind‑cold can transform into heat, leading to yellow nasal discharge and headache.
Contributing factors: Spleen–Stomach weakness and qi–blood insufficiency fail to nourish the nasal passages, aggravating symptoms.

2. Actions

Disperse wind‑cold, unblock the nose:
- Xin Yi and Xi Xin disperse wind‑cold from the Lung channel to open the nasal passages.
- Bai Zhi and Chuan Xiong dispel wind, relieve pain, and further open the nasal orifices.
- Sheng Ma and Fang Feng raise yang, clear toxin, and harmonize the ascent/descend of the formula so its power is fully expressed.
Net effect: synergistic dispersion of wind‑cold, decongestion of nasal passages, and relief of rhinitis symptoms.

Xinyi San: Dispersing Wind, Unblocking the Orifices, Dispersing Cold and Relieving Pain — Precise Resolution of Chronic Rhinitis, Allergic Rhinitis, and Sinusitis | HJMEDICAL

3. Indications

Allergic rhinitis (wind‑cold pattern): clear watery discharge, nasal congestion, frequent sneezing—typically from wind‑cold invading the nose.
Nasal congestion with turbid discharge: profuse, persistent, reduced sense of smell—often from constrained wind‑cold transforming into heat.
Accompanying signs the formula addresses: headache, dizziness, aversion to wind with spontaneous sweating.
Primary use: patterns of disordered Lung function with upward attack of pathogenic qi causing nasal allergy and congestion—best matched to early wind‑cold or mixed wind‑cold transforming to heat.

Formula Analysis

The Mechanism in Classical Theory

1. Dispersing Wind-Cold from the Exterior

Chief pair: Xin Yi and Xi Xin (both acrid, warm) excel at expelling wind‑cold.
- Xin Yi reaches the nasal orifices, disperses wind‑cold from the Lung channel, and opens the nose.
- Xi Xin penetrates the channels, dispels wind, scatters cold, and strengthens exterior‑releasing power.
Deputies: Bai Zhi and Chuan Xiong further disperse wind‑cold and relieve pain.
Net effect: clears wind‑cold invading the nose, diffuses Lung qi, and frees nasal passages.

2. Unblocking the Nasal Orifices

Multi‑pathway decongestion:
- Xin Yi directly acts on nasal mucosa, improves local microcirculation, reduces congestion and swelling.
- Xi Xin, Bai Zhi, Chuan Xiong all aid nasal opening via complementary routes.
Envoys: Sheng Ma and Fang Feng raise clear yang so the formula’s action ascends to the nose, enhancing the nasal‑opening effect.

3. Overall Regulation

Systemic support:
- Sheng Ma raises yang and resolves toxicity—useful when heat‑toxin accompanies nasal issues.
- Fang Feng coordinates ascent/descent and float/sink of the formula, optimizing overall effect.
Lung regulation: the blend helps restore Lung diffusion and descent, reinforces defense, and treats both branch (nasal symptoms) and root (disordered Lung function).

How This Formula Compares

Clinical Comparison Table

Compare	Xin Yi San	Cang Er San	Xin Yi Qing Fei Tang	Chuan Xiong Cha Tiao San
Primary Function	Disperse wind, unblock the nasal orifices	Disperse wind, unblock the nose	Clear Lung heat, open the nasal orifices	Disperse wind, stop headache
Formula Category	Exterior-Releasing Formulas	Exterior-Releasing Formulas	Heat-Clearing Formulas	Exterior-Releasing Formulas
Typical TCM Pattern	Wind-Cold	Wind-Cold	Lung Heat	Wind-Cold
Main Conditions	Nasal Congestion, Headache, Allergic Rhinitis	Nasal Congestion, Headache, Allergic Rhinitis	Nasal Congestion, Dry Mouth & Throat, Headache, Fever	Headache, Nasal Congestion, Fever, Cold Limbs
Main Herbs	Magnolia Flower · Angelica Dahurica Root · Saposhnikovia Root · Ligusticum Root · Cimicifuga Rhizome · Akebia Stem · Chuanxiong Rhizome · Asarum / Wild Ginger	Xanthium Fruit · Magnolia Flower · Angelica Dahurica Root · Mentha / Peppermint	Magnolia Flower · Scutellaria / Baikal Skullcap · Gypsum · Anemarrhena Rhizome · Ophiopogon Tuber · Angelica Dahurica Root · Cimicifuga Rhizome · Licorice Root · Loquat Leaf	Chuanxiong Rhizome · Angelica Dahurica Root · Notopterygium Root · Asarum / Wild Ginger · Saposhnikovia Root · Schizonepeta / Japanese Catnip · Mentha / Peppermint · Licorice Root
Classical Source	Ji Sheng Fang (Yan Yonghe, Song dynasty)	Ji Sheng Fang (Yan Yonghe, Song dynasty)	Wai Ke Zheng Zong (Chen Shigong, Ming dynasty)	Tai Ping Hui Min He Ji Ju Fang (Song dynasty)

How to tell them apart

Xin Yi San opens the nasal orifices for wind-cold. Cang Er San is a closely related orifice-opening formula. Xin Yi Qing Fei Tang clears Lung heat for nasal congestion with heat signs. Chuan Xiong Cha Tiao San disperses wind for headache with less nasal focus.

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

Clinical Modifications

Clinical Modifications for Xin Yi San

1. Yellow Nasal Discharge — Add Huang Qin and Sang Bai Pi

Indication: yellow, thick discharge suggests Lung heat.
Huang Qin (Scutellaria Root): bitter, cold; clears heat, dries damp, drains fire, resolves toxicity.
Sang Bai Pi (Mulberry Root Bark): sweet, cold; drains the Lung to calm wheezing, promotes urination to reduce swelling.
Effect: strengthens heat‑clearing and fire‑draining to reduce yellow discharge and nasal inflammation.

2. Pronounced Headache — Add Qiang Huo and Gao Ben

Indication: marked headache with wind‑cold features.
Qiang Huo (Notopterygium Rhizome): acrid, bitter, warm; releases exterior, dispels wind‑cold‑damp, relieves pain; excels for Taiyang headaches.
Gao Ben (Ligusticum Rhizome): acrid, warm; dispels wind‑cold‑damp, relieves pain; excels for vertex headaches.
Effect: boosts wind‑dispelling, analgesic action; adjust doses per headache location.

3. Severe Congestion and Swelling of the Nasal Mucosa — Add Chi Shao and Mu Dan Pi

Indication: pronounced mucosal edema with obstruction.
Chi Shao (Red Peony Root): bitter, slightly cold; clears heat, cools blood, disperses stasis, relieves pain.
Mu Dan Pi (Tree Peony Bark): acrid, bitter, slightly cold; clears heat, cools blood, activates blood, resolves stasis.
Effect: cools blood and moves stasis to reduce mucosal congestion and improve airflow.

4. Concurrent Cough — Add Zi Wan and Kuan Dong Hua

Indication: nasal disorder with cough and phlegm.
Zi Wan (Aster Root): acrid, bitter, warm; moistens Lung, descends qi, resolves phlegm, stops cough.
Kuan Dong Hua (Coltsfoot Flower): acrid, slightly bitter, warm; moistens Lung, descends qi, stops cough, resolves phlegm.
Effect: reinforces cough‑stopping and phlegm‑resolving actions, easing cough and aiding overall recovery.

Modern Research

What the Science Suggests

1. Pharmacological Research

Origin and scope: From Yifang Jijie; indicated for nasal blockage, labored breathing, hyposmia/anosmia, persistent discharge, and headache—applicable to allergic rhinitis, chronic rhinitis, nasal polyps, sinusitis, and common cold patterns.
Classical prep/use: Xin Yi, Bai Zhi, Xi Xin, Fang Feng, Chuan Xiong, Sheng Ma, Gan Cao, etc., ground to fine powder; dose approx. two qian per take, washed down with tea.
Classical actions summarized: unblocks nasal orifices; benefits the orifices and raises the clear; assists clear yang; frees essence and qi; disperses heat and eliminates damp; drains fire; tonifies the Liver and moistens dryness; disperses heat and breaks binding; guides clear qi from the Stomach; raises clear yang; moderates acrid‑dispersing nature—treats obstructed‑nose patterns (e.g., allergic rhinitis).
Modern findings:
- Xin Yi: volatile oils stimulate nasal mucosa, improve local microcirculation, reduce congestion/edema → decongestion.
- Xi Xin: anti‑inflammatory, anti‑allergic effects → reduces mucosal inflammation in allergic rhinitis.
- Bai Zhi, Chuan Xiong: analgesic, anti‑inflammatory → ease headache and mucosal inflammation.
- Sheng Ma, Fang Feng: immune‑modulating → strengthen resistance and help prevent recurrences.

2. Observation of Clinical Efficacy

Allergic rhinitis: studies report significant improvement in nasal itch, sneezing, rhinorrhea; quality‑of‑life gains.
Sinusitis: relief of congestion, rhinorrhea, headache; promotes sinus drainage, reduces secretions; improved clinical cure rates in observed cohorts.

3. Research on Dosage Form Improvement

Beyond concentrated granules: development of nasal drops and sprays to act locally in the nasal cavity.
Advantages: rapid local absorption, targeted effect, convenient use, and fewer systemic side effects.
Example: Xin Yi San nasal drops rapidly relieve congestion with favorable tolerability, expanding patient options.

4. Future Research Directions

Priorities:
- Clarify molecular mechanisms of action.
- Optimize composition and dosing; establish dose–response.
- Develop safer, more effective dosage forms (e.g., standardized sprays/drops).
- Integrate with other therapies; test comprehensive regimens for nasal disorders via high‑quality, controlled trials.

Safety

Safety Considerations

1. Dietary Restrictions & Precautions

While taking Xinyi San, avoid spicy, greasy, irritating, raw, or cold foods (e.g., chili, fried foods, ice-cold drinks) and alcohol, which can generate internal heat, damage spleen‑stomach yang, worsen nasal symptoms, and reduce efficacy. Rest adequately, keep warm to avoid re‑exposure to wind‑cold, and use moderate exercise to support recovery.

2. Contraindications, Dosage & Monitoring

Xinyi San contains Xixin—adhere to recommended dosing to avoid toxicity. Do not use for yin‑deficiency with hyperactive yang or headaches from blood‑deficiency with wind‑dryness. Use cautiously in pregnancy. If adverse reactions or symptom changes occur, stop and seek medical advice promptly.

Available Products

Where to Get It

HJMEDICAL Hoi Tin Xin Yi San (Magnolia Flower Powder) 5:1 Concentrated Granules $30.50

HJMEDICAL Nong's Xin Yi San (Magnolia Flower Powder) 5:1 Concentrated Granules $51.25

HJMEDICAL Hoi Tin Cang Er Zi San (Xanthium Fruit Powder) 5:1 Concentrated Granules $24.93

HJMEDICAL Nong's Cang Er San (Xanthium Formula) 5:1 Concentrated Granules $46.97

Nong's Xin Yi Qing Fei Tang Extract Granules

HJMEDICAL Nong's Xin Yi Qing Fei Tang (Magnolia Flower Clear Lung Decoction) 5:1 Concentrated Granules $33.06

FAQ

Questions About Xin Yi San

Q1: What are the actions of Xin Yi San?

Xin Yi San has the actions of dispersing Wind-Cold and unblocking the nasal orifices. It is a representative formula for nasal congestion and loss of smell when Wind-Cold obstructs the nose rather than when Lung Heat produces yellow discharge.

Q2: Which modern diseases is Xin Yi San suited to?

Modern TCM clinical practice commonly applies it to individuals whose pattern differentiation falls within Wind-Cold blocking the nasal orifices, including acute rhinitis or sinusitis with clear or white discharge, chronic nasal congestion that worsens in cold weather, allergic rhinitis of Wind-Cold type, and frontal or sinus headache accompanying a stuffed nose.

Q3: Is Xin Yi San suitable for improving a blocked nose, clear runny discharge, and loss of smell?

For presentations of nasal congestion, persistent clear or white discharge, inability to smell, frontal or vertex headache, mild aversion to cold, a thin white coating, and a floating pulse — in those whose pattern differentiation confirms Wind-Cold obstructing the nose — TCM commonly applies Xin Yi San as an adjunct. It cannot replace ENT evaluation of chronic sinus disease or polyps.

Q4: Who should not take Xin Yi San?

Those with Wind-Heat or Lung-Heat sinusitis (thick yellow or green discharge, red sore throat), Yin-deficiency empty Fire, or who are pregnant are generally not suitable. The formula is warm, acrid, and dispersing and can aggravate Heat. Use should be assessed by a qualified TCM physician.

Q5: Why is Xin Yi Hua the chief herb?

Xin Yi Hua is acrid and warm, enters the Lung and Stomach, and specifically unblocks the nasal orifices while dispersing Wind-Cold. Combined with Xi Xin and Bai Zhi it lifts and opens the nose; Gao Ben, Fang Feng, Qiang Huo, and Chuan Xiong disperse Wind and treat the accompanying head and sinus pain; Sheng Ma guides the formula upward; Mu Tong helps drain turbidity.

Q6: How does Xin Yi San differ from Xin Yi Qing Fei Tang or Cang Er Zi San?

Xin Yi Qing Fei Tang clears Lung Heat and is chosen for yellow sticky nasal discharge with Heat signs. Cang Er Zi San also unblocks the nose and is often used for bi yuan with turbid discharge; it is less focused on a clear Wind-Cold exterior picture. Xin Yi San is the warmer, more dispersing choice for cold-type stuffed nose and clear discharge.

Q7: What are the main ingredients of Xin Yi San?

The classical formula typically consists of Xin Yi Hua to unblock the nose; Xi Xin and Bai Zhi to disperse Wind-Cold and open the orifices; Gao Ben, Fang Feng, Qiang Huo, and Chuan Xiong to disperse Wind and stop headache; Sheng Ma to raise the formula to the head; Mu Tong to drain turbidity; and Zhi Gan Cao to harmonize. The fuzzy coating of Xin Yi Hua should be removed before decoction.

Q8: Is Xin Yi San suitable for long-term use?

No. It is a short-course dispersing formula for Wind-Cold nasal obstruction. Prolonged use of acrid-warm orifice-opening herbs can dry fluids and stir Heat. Chronic rhinitis that persists after the Cold signs recede needs a different strategy, not endless Xin Yi San.

Q9: Can this formula help both the blocked nose and the accompanying frontal or sinus headache?

Yes. Wind-Cold that blocks the nasal orifices also lodges in the yang channels of the head, producing frontal, vertex, or sinus pain. Xin Yi Hua opens the nose while Gao Ben, Chuan Xiong, Qiang Huo, and Bai Zhi disperse Wind and stop that head pain when both belong to the same Wind-Cold pattern.

Q10: What lifestyle advice supports the use of Xin Yi San?

Keeping the head and neck warm, avoiding cold wind on the face, and not using this formula once the discharge turns thick and yellow all support correct use. High fever, severe facial swelling, or vision change with sinus pain requires medical evaluation rather than continued self-use.

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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