Xiao Yao San
Classical TCM Formula Profile
Part of the HJMEDICAL TCM Discovery Center
逍遥散 · Xiāo Yáo Sǎn
The classic formula for Liver Qi constraint with Blood deficiency and Spleen weakness. Widely used for emotional constraint, PMS, hypochondriac distension and mild digestive symptoms.
Read the complete guide →Quick Facts
- Formula Category
- Harmonising Formulas
- Primary Pattern
- Qi Stagnation
- Primary Function
- Course Liver Qi, tonify Spleen, nourish Blood
- Primary Therapeutic Principle
- Course the Liver, resolve constraint, strengthen the Spleen and nourish Blood
- Classical Source
- Tai Ping Hui Min He Ji Ju Fang (Song dynasty)
- Available as Granules
- Yes
Formula Overview
The classic formula for Liver Qi constraint with Blood deficiency and Spleen weakness. Widely used for emotional constraint, PMS, hypochondriac distension and mild digestive symptoms.
Therapeutic Principle
Traditionally selected when Liver Qi constraint occurs together with Blood deficiency and Spleen weakness, requiring coursing and tonification at once — unlike Chai Hu Shu Gan San, which moves Qi and relieves pain more forcefully, and without the heat-clearing herbs that define Jia Wei Xiao Yao San.
Composition
(Sovereign / Minister / Assistant / Envoy)
Related Conditions
Related Health Topics
How does this formula compare?
| Compare | Xiao Yao San | Jia Wei Xiao Yao San | Chai Hu Shu Gan San |
|---|---|---|---|
| Primary Function | Course Liver Qi, tonify Spleen, nourish Blood | Course Liver Qi, clear Heat, tonify Spleen and Blood | Course Liver Qi, regulate Qi, stop pain |
| Formula Category | Harmonising Formulas | Harmonising Formulas | Qi-Regulating Formulas |
| Typical TCM Pattern | Qi Stagnation | Qi Stagnation | Qi Stagnation |
| Main Conditions | Hypochondriac Distension ·Emotional Depression ·Poor Appetite ·Irregular Menstruation | Hypochondriac Distension ·Anxiety Restlessness ·Irregular Menstruation ·Emotional Depression | Hypochondriac Distension ·Bloating ·Emotional Depression ·Chest Tightness |
| Main Herbs | Bupleurum Root ·Chinese Angelica Root ·White Peony Root ·White Atractylodes Rhizome ·Poria / Hoelen | Bupleurum Root ·Chinese Angelica Root ·White Peony Root ·White Atractylodes Rhizome ·Poria / Hoelen | Bupleurum Root ·Cyperus Rhizome ·Chuanxiong Rhizome ·Bitter Orange ·White Peony Root |
| Classical Source | Tai Ping Hui Min He Ji Ju Fang (Song dynasty) | Nei Ke Zhai Yao (Summary of Internal Medicine, Ming dynasty) / also known as Dan Zhi Xiao Yao San | Jing Yue Quan Shu (Complete Works of Jingyue, Ming dynasty) |
Clinical Perspective
Xiao Yao San addresses Liver constraint with concurrent Blood and Spleen deficiency. Jia Wei Xiao Yao San (Dan Zhi Xiao Yao San) adds heat-clearing herbs when constraint has transformed into Heat. Chai Hu Shu Gan San is stronger for pure Qi stagnation with pain and less emphasis on Blood or Spleen tonification.
For educational reference only, based on traditional pattern differentiation — not a substitute for professional advice.
Related Articles
Xiao Yao San: Classic TCM Formula for Liver Qi Stagnation, Stress & Mood Balance
Related Products
Hoi Tin Xiao Yao San (Free and Easy Wanderer Powder) 5:1 Concentrated Granules
Nong's Xiao Yao San (Free & Easy Wanderer) 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.