Er Chen Tang
Classical TCM Formula Profile
Part of the HJMEDICAL TCM Discovery Center
二陳湯 · Èr Chén Tāng
The foundational classical phlegm-damp formula for cough with copious white sputum and epigastric fullness.
Quick Facts
- Formula Category
- Phlegm-Resolving Formulas
- Primary Pattern
- Phlegm-Dampness
- Primary Function
- Dry dampness, resolve phlegm, regulate Qi, harmonize middle
- Primary Therapeutic Principle
- The foundational method to dry damp and transform phlegm
- Classical Source
- Tai Ping Hui Min He Ji Ju Fang (Song, 1107)
- Available as Granules
- —
Formula Overview
The foundational classical phlegm-damp formula for cough with copious white sputum and epigastric fullness.
Therapeutic Principle
Traditionally selected when the presentation matches the core pattern of this formula rather than the neighbouring indications of its related formulas.
Composition
(Sovereign / Minister / Assistant / Envoy)
Related Conditions
Related Health Topics
How does this formula compare?
| Compare | Er Chen Tang | Wen Dan Tang | Ban Xia Bai Zhu Tian Ma Tang | Qing Qi Hua Tan Tang |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Primary Function | Dry dampness, resolve phlegm, regulate Qi, harmonize middle | Regulate Qi, resolve phlegm, clear Gallbladder, harmonize Stomach | Dry damp, resolve phlegm, calm Liver, extinguish wind | Clear heat, resolve phlegm, regulate Qi |
| Formula Category | Phlegm-Resolving Formulas | Phlegm-Resolving Formulas | Phlegm-Resolving Formulas | Phlegm-Resolving Formulas |
| Typical TCM Pattern | Phlegm-Dampness | Phlegm-Dampness | Phlegm-Dampness | Phlegm-Heat |
| Main Conditions | Poor Appetite ·Nausea | Insomnia ·Anxiety Restlessness ·Nausea ·Dizziness & Vertigo | Dizziness & Vertigo ·Headache ·Nausea | Chest Tightness ·Excessive Mucus |
| Main Herbs | Pinellia Rhizome ·Tangerine Peel ·Poria / Hoelen ·Honey-fried Licorice | Pinellia Rhizome ·Bamboo Shavings ·Immature Bitter Orange ·Tangerine Peel ·Poria / Hoelen | Pinellia Rhizome ·Gastrodia Rhizome ·Poria / Hoelen ·Red Tangerine Peel ·White Atractylodes Rhizome | Bile Arisaema ·Trichosanthes Seed ·Scutellaria / Baikal Skullcap ·Immature Bitter Orange ·Tangerine Peel |
| Classical Source | Tai Ping Hui Min He Ji Ju Fang (Song, 1107) | Classical TCM formulary | Li Dongyuan school / classical | Ming-Qing classical formulary |
Clinical Perspective
Er Chen Tang is distinguished from Wen Dan Tang, Ban Xia Bai Zhu Tian Ma Tang, Qing Qi Hua Tan Tang by its specific pattern focus and herb strategy within the same broader clinical domain.
For educational reference only, based on traditional pattern differentiation — not a substitute for professional advice.
Browse all classical formulas →
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.