Xiao Cheng Qi Tang
Classical TCM Formula Profile
Part of the HJMEDICAL TCM Discovery Center
小承气汤 · Xiǎo Chéng Qì Tāng
A milder purgative formula for Yang Ming excess with constipation, abdominal fullness and mild tidal fever. It uses Da Huang, Hou Po and Zhi Shi without the intense moistening and softening of Mang Xiao found in Da Cheng Qi Tang.
Read the complete guide →Quick Facts
- Formula Category
- Purgative Formulas
- Primary Pattern
- Stomach Heat
- Primary Function
- Mildly purge Heat accumulation
- Primary Therapeutic Principle
- Mildly purge Heat accumulation, move Qi and relieve fullness
- Classical Source
- Shang Han Lun (Zhang Zhongjing, Eastern Han)
- Available as Granules
- Yes
Formula Overview
A milder purgative formula for Yang Ming excess with constipation, abdominal fullness and mild tidal fever. It uses Da Huang, Hou Po and Zhi Shi without the intense moistening and softening of Mang Xiao found in Da Cheng Qi Tang.
Therapeutic Principle
Traditionally selected for moderate Yang Ming bowel excess with fullness and constipation but without the extreme hardness and dryness that calls for Da Cheng Qi Tang — a gentler, Qi-moving purgative.
Composition
(Sovereign / Minister / Assistant / Envoy)
Related Conditions
Related Health Topics
How does this formula compare?
| Compare | Xiao Cheng Qi Tang | Da Cheng Qi Tang | Tiao Wei Cheng Qi Tang | Tao He Cheng Qi Tang |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Primary Function | Mildly purge Heat accumulation | Strongly purge Heat accumulation and constipation | Mildly purge heat accumulation, harmonise the Stomach | Invigorate Blood, clear Heat, purge accumulation |
| Formula Category | Purgative Formulas | Purgative Formulas | Purgative Formulas | Blood-Invigorating Formulas |
| Typical TCM Pattern | Stomach Heat | Stomach Heat | Stomach Heat | Blood Stasis |
| Main Conditions | Constipation ·Bloating ·Abdominal Pain ·Fever | Constipation ·Bloating ·Abdominal Pain ·Fever | Constipation ·Abdominal Pain ·Fever ·Dry Mouth & Throat | Irregular Menstruation ·Dysmenorrhea |
| Main Herbs | Rhubarb Root and Rhizome ·Magnolia Bark ·Immature Bitter Orange | Rhubarb Root and Rhizome ·Mirabilite / Glauber's Salt ·Magnolia Bark ·Immature Bitter Orange | Rhubarb Root and Rhizome ·Mirabilite / Glauber's Salt ·Honey-fried Licorice | Peach Kernel ·Rhubarb Root and Rhizome ·Cinnamon Twig ·Mirabilite / Glauber's Salt ·Honey-fried Licorice |
| 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 Cheng Qi Tang is the milder purgative for moderate Yang Ming excess. Da Cheng Qi Tang is the strongest, adding Mang Xiao for severe hardness and dryness. Tiao Wei Cheng Qi Tang is even milder, focusing on harmonising the Stomach. Tao He Cheng Qi Tang combines purgation with Blood-stasis breaking.
For educational reference only, based on traditional pattern differentiation — not a substitute for professional advice.
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Xiao Cheng Qi Tang: Classic TCM Formula for Mild Constipation & Abdominal Fullness
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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.