Augmented Plum Pit Qi contains all of the herbs of Pinellia and Magnolia Bark Decoction, with the addition of five herbs, all classical modifications of the base formula. In the classical text, this formula name refers to a sensation like if the “pit of a plum” is stuck in the throat, that cannot be cleared or swallowed. Augmented Plum Pit Qi addresses a pattern where the stagnation of Qi and formation of Phlegm are mutually reinforcing. Obstruction of the Qi dynamic that is centered on the downward directing function of the Lungs and Stomach causes fluid stagnation that transforms into Phlegm and which in turn inhibits the ascent of clear Yang. Augmented Plum Pit Qi is more focused on moving Liver Qi stagnation than the originalbase formula. Over a long period of time, unexpressed emotions damage the Shen and impede the harmonious interaction of internal organs − both their functionality and their normal directions of movement. Qi stagnates and the Stomach and Lungs are unable to move energy downward. When rebellious Qi rises, fluids are not properly transformed and transported, leading to the accumulation of Phlegm in the throat and chest. Augmented Plum Pit Qi moves stagnant Qi, transforms Phlegm and accumulation, redirects rebellious Qi downward, harmonizes the Middle Burner and soothes the emotions. Licorice cured Pinellia rhizome transforms Phlegm, dissipates accumulations, directs the rebellious Qi downward and harmonizes the Stomach. Magnolia bark and Perilla leaf dissipate accumulations and promote the downward movement of rebellious Qi. Poria leaches out Dampness and assists licorice cured Pinellia rhizome in transforming Phlegm. Ginger rhizome harmonizes the Stomach. Four herbs have been added to the classical formula to further reduce stagnant Qi: Bupleurum root, prepared Cyperus rhizome, Tangerine dried rind of green fruit and Turmeric root tuber. Bupleurum root assists in reducing stagnant Qi by clearing Heat and adjusting Liver Qi, thereby playing a crucial role in ensuring that this formula enters the Liver meridian. Prepared Cyperus rhizome circulates Qi and helps reduce constrained or stagnant Liver Qi, while Tangerine dried rind of green fruit and Turmeric root tuber further move Qi. Turmeric root tuber also clears Phlegm obstructing the Heart orifice, and is frequently paired with Bupleurum root when the free flow of Liver Qi is constrained. Finally, Polygala root has been added to help calm the Shen by facilitating the movement of Qi, particularly in the Heart, and to reduce occasional anxiety, restlessness and insomnia. Ascending Clarity, Plum Pit Qi, Peaceful Shen and Clear Mind, and Lucid Channel from the Kan Herbals line also address Phlegm patterns. Ascending Clarity addresses a pattern of Spleen Qi deficiency that is generating Phlegm and Wind obstructing the head. Plum Pit Qi addresses Liver Qi stagnation, rebellious Stomach and Lung Qi and Phlegm rising to obstruct the throat. Peaceful Shen addresses Gallbladder and Stomach disharmony, Phlegm Heat rising upward and Heart and Gallbladder deficiency. Clear Mind addresses a pattern of Kidney and Heart Yin deficiency combined with Liver and Heart Blood deficiency with simultaneous Phlegm clouding the Brain orifice. Lucid Channel addresses a pattern of generalized Phlegm accumulation while also supporting Spleen Qi. ORIGINS AND DEVELOPMENTPinellia and Magnolia Bark Decoction (Ban Xia Hou Po Tang) is a classical formula first discussed in Essentials from the Golden Cabinet (Jin Gui Yao Lue), which dates back to the later Han Dynasty.
