Xiao Chai Hu Tang
Classical TCM Formula Profile
Part of the HJMEDICAL TCM Discovery Center
小柴胡汤 · Xiǎo Chái Hú Tāng
The foundational Shaoyang harmonising formula. Alternating chills and fever, bitter taste, dry throat, dizziness, chest and rib-side fullness, and a wiry pulse are classic presentations.
Read the complete guide →Quick Facts
- Formula Category
- Harmonising Formulas
- Primary Pattern
- Qi Stagnation
- Primary Function
- Harmonise Shaoyang, release the pivot
- Primary Therapeutic Principle
- Harmonise the Shaoyang pivot and regulate cold-heat
- Classical Source
- Shang Han Lun (Zhang Zhongjing, Eastern Han)
- Available as Granules
- Yes
Formula Overview
The foundational Shaoyang harmonising formula. Alternating chills and fever, bitter taste, dry throat, dizziness, chest and rib-side fullness, and a wiry pulse are classic presentations.
Therapeutic Principle
Traditionally selected as the first-line formula for clear Shaoyang presentations — the pivot-harmonising standard from which many Chai Hu family formulas derive.
Composition
(Sovereign / Minister / Assistant / Envoy)
Related Conditions
Related Health Topics
How does this formula compare?
| Compare | Xiao Chai Hu Tang | Da Chai Hu Tang | Chai Hu Gui Zhi Gan Jiang Tang | Chai Hu Jia Long Gu Mu Li Tang |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Primary Function | Harmonise Shaoyang, release the pivot | Harmonize Shaoyang, drain interior heat, move stool | Harmonise Shaoyang, warm and transform fluids | Harmonise Shaoyang, calm the spirit, relieve constraint |
| Formula Category | Harmonising Formulas | Harmonising Formulas | Harmonising Formulas | Calm the Shen Formulas |
| Typical TCM Pattern | Qi Stagnation | Shaoyang Syndrome | Qi Stagnation | Qi Stagnation |
| Main Conditions | Fever ·Chest Tightness ·Nausea ·Poor Appetite | Fever ·Constipation ·Abdominal Pain ·Nausea | Fever ·Chest Tightness ·Dry Mouth & Throat ·Abdominal Pain | Anxiety Restlessness ·Insomnia ·Chest Tightness ·Emotional Depression |
| Main Herbs | Bupleurum Root ·Scutellaria / Baikal Skullcap ·Pinellia Rhizome ·Ginseng Root ·Fresh Ginger | Bupleurum Root ·Scutellaria / Baikal Skullcap ·Pinellia Rhizome ·Rhubarb Root and Rhizome ·Immature Bitter Orange | Bupleurum Root ·Cinnamon Twig ·Dried Ginger ·Trichosanthes Root ·Scutellaria / Baikal Skullcap | Bupleurum Root ·Dragon Bone / Fossilized Bone ·Oyster Shell ·Scutellaria / Baikal Skullcap ·Ginseng Root |
| Classical Source | Shang Han Lun (Zhang Zhongjing, Eastern Han) | Shang Han Lun (Zhang Zhongjing, Eastern Han) | Shang Han Lun (Zhang Zhongjing, Eastern Han) | Shang Han Lun (Zhang Zhongjing, Eastern Han) |
Clinical Perspective
Xiao Chai Hu Tang is the base Shaoyang formula. Da Chai Hu Tang combines Shaoyang and Yangming purge. Chai Hu Gui Zhi Gan Jiang Tang addresses Shaoyang with fluid accumulation. Chai Hu Jia Long Gu Mu Li Tang adds heavy settling for spirit disturbance.
For educational reference only, based on traditional pattern differentiation — not a substitute for professional advice.
Related Articles
Xiao Chai Hu Tang: Classic TCM Formula for Shao Yang Disorder, Alternating Fever & Chills
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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.