When stasis is prolonged, the constituents of the body (Qi, Blood and Moisture) can become entangled with Cold, Heat, Phlegm and Blood. These entanglements are like clusters of stagnation, which further inhibit the free, healthy circulation of Qi, Moisture and Blood. Clusters, in their early as well as developed stages, fall into the classical categories of Chuang Du and Liu, two forms of denser accumulations. These accumulations are considered to be the result of a lengthy process of stagnation, accretion and compaction of healthy body constituents due to inadequate circulation and improper dietary habits. Once divorced from the normal nutritive, defensive and eliminative functions of the body’s organizing mechanism (the Triple Burner), these clusters of stasis may begin to challenge the unity of Jing-Shen and the Five Organ Networks. The herbal functions of this formula include: softening accumulations, transforming and expelling Du, activating circulation, dissolving Phlegm, strengthening the Middle Burner and nurturing Qi, Moisture and Blood. The principal inspiration for Cluster Dissolving is Calm Dispersing Elixir (Ping Xiao Dan), conceived by the contemporary Chinese herbalist Jia Kun. While the most obvious similarity between the two formulas is the presence of vinegar prepared Zeodaria rhizome, the choice of the other ingredients derives from classical and modern formulas with similar underlying objectives: namely, to eliminate stasis by eliminating occasional congelations and purging Du while protecting Righteous Qi (Zheng Qi). RATIONALE Shrubby sophora root, Vietnamese sophora root and rhizome, Barbed skullcap herb, Isatis root, Shiny-leaf prickly ash root, Oldenlandia herb and Selaginella herb are the primary components of this formula. Each of these herbs can dispel Heat and Du, and stubborn accumulations and stagnations. Sparganium rhizome and vinegar prepared Zedoary rhizome assist the main ingredients by promoting the movement of Qi and Blood, eliminating stagnation and protecting the Liver. Dandelion herb is gentle and supportive in dispelling Heat and Du, particularly from the lymphatic vessels, secretory glands and urinary tract while also protecting the Liver and Stomach. And, finally, White atractylodes rhizome helps to preserve the Righteous Qi by strengthening the Middle Burner, tonifying Qi and Wei, reducing Dampness, dispelling Phlegm and promoting digestion.
