Si Ni San
Classical TCM Formula Profile
Part of the HJMEDICAL TCM Discovery Center
四逆散 · Sì Nì Sǎn
Classic formula for Liver Qi constraint causing cold extremities (true heat with false cold appearance) and hypochondriac/epigastric distension. Differs from Si Ni Tang which addresses true Yang collapse.
Read the complete guide →Quick Facts
- Formula Category
- Harmonising Formulas
- Primary Pattern
- Qi Stagnation
- Primary Function
- Course Liver Qi, resolve constraint, harmonize
- Primary Therapeutic Principle
- Course the Liver, regulate Qi, resolve constraint and harmonize the Middle
- Classical Source
- Shang Han Lun (Zhang Zhongjing, Eastern Han)
- Available as Granules
- Yes
Formula Overview
Classic formula for Liver Qi constraint causing cold extremities (true heat with false cold appearance) and hypochondriac/epigastric distension. Differs from Si Ni Tang which addresses true Yang collapse.
Therapeutic Principle
Traditionally selected when cold extremities arise from constrained Yang unable to reach the limbs rather than true Yang deficiency — a coursing formula, unlike Si Ni Tang, which rescues genuine Yang collapse, and simpler than the later Chai Hu Shu Gan San and Xiao Yao San developments.
Composition
(Sovereign / Minister / Assistant / Envoy)
Related Conditions
Related Health Topics
How does this formula compare?
| Compare | Si Ni San | Si Ni Tang | Chai Hu Shu Gan San | Xiao Yao San |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Primary Function | Course Liver Qi, resolve constraint, harmonize | Restore Yang, rescue from collapse | Course Liver Qi, regulate Qi, stop pain | Course Liver Qi, tonify Spleen, nourish Blood |
| Formula Category | Harmonising Formulas | Yang-Tonifying Formulas | Qi-Regulating Formulas | Harmonising Formulas |
| Typical TCM Pattern | Qi Stagnation | Yang Deficiency | Qi Stagnation | Qi Stagnation |
| Main Conditions | Cold Limbs ·Hypochondriac Distension ·Bloating ·Emotional Depression | Cold Limbs ·Abdominal Pain ·Stomach Discomfort ·Fatigue & Low Energy | Hypochondriac Distension ·Bloating ·Emotional Depression ·Chest Tightness | Hypochondriac Distension ·Emotional Depression ·Poor Appetite ·Irregular Menstruation |
| Main Herbs | Bupleurum Root ·Immature Bitter Orange ·White Peony Root ·Honey-fried Licorice | Prepared Aconite Accessory Root ·Dried Ginger ·Honey-fried Licorice | Bupleurum Root ·Cyperus Rhizome ·Chuanxiong Rhizome ·Bitter Orange ·White Peony Root | Bupleurum Root ·Chinese Angelica Root ·White Peony Root ·White Atractylodes Rhizome ·Poria / Hoelen |
| Classical Source | Shang Han Lun (Zhang Zhongjing, Eastern Han) | Shang Han Lun (Zhang Zhongjing, Eastern Han) | Jing Yue Quan Shu (Complete Works of Jingyue, Ming dynasty) | Tai Ping Hui Min He Ji Ju Fang (Song dynasty) |
Clinical Perspective
Si Ni San addresses Liver Qi constraint with cold extremities from constrained Yang. Si Ni Tang is for true Yang collapse. Chai Hu Shu Gan San and Xiao Yao San are later developments for broader Liver constraint patterns. Wen Jing Tang focuses on cold in the Chong and Ren with Blood deficiency.
For educational reference only, based on traditional pattern differentiation — not a substitute for professional advice.
Related Articles
Si Ni San: Classic TCM Formula for Liver Qi Stagnation & Cold Extremities
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Hoi Tin Si Ni San (Frigid Extremities Powder) 5:1 Concentrated Granules
Nong's Si Ni San (Frigid Extremities Powder) 5:1 Concentrated Granules
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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.