Kudzu Releasing Formula is based on Kudzu Decoction (Ge Gen Tang), a classical formula addressing Wind Cold invasions lodging in the Greater Yang (Tai Yang) level and blocking the Tai Yang channel, which runs along the head, neck and back, causing occasional stiff neck and shoulders. The Greater Yang (Tai Yang) level is closest to the surface, and therefore the most vulnerable to exterior invasions. In this pattern, Wind Cold becomes lodged between the muscle layer and skin, blocking the circulation of the Defensive (Wei) Qi. This obstruction preventsfluids that normally circulate upward via the Nutritive (Ying) Qi from reaching the upper body, creating tension and stagnation in the upper back and neck, which is the hallmark feature of this pattern. Kudzu Releasing Formula relieves the Exterior, releases the muscle layer and generates fluids needed to alleviate occasional stiffness and stagnation, while supporting healthy sweating. In addition, it is effective for aiding the Stomach Qi to rise and, as such, is useful for a combination Tai Yang/Yang Ming disharmony. It can also be used for a condition of exterior excess in a person with deficient fluids, characterized by an occasional lack of sweating and scanty urination. The chief herb in this formula, Kudzu root, discharges exterior invasions lodged in the muscles and accompanied by occasional stiff or tight upper back and neck. Kudzu root releases the muscles, nourishes the fluids, and alleviates thirst. It is often combined with White peony root and Chinese cinnamon twig for externally contracted Wind Cold invasions. Chinese cinnamon twig supports the actions of Kudzu root by releasing the Exterior and the muscle layers, and works in concert with White peony root to preserve the Yin and to harmonize the Nutritive (Ying) and Defensive (Wei) Qi, which further releases exterior invasions. Ginger rhizome releases the Exterior and disperses Cold. Combined with Black jujube fruit, it harmonizes the Nutritive and Protective Qi. Ephedra, due to legislative actions, is no longer available, and has been replaced by a combination of two herbs; Perilla leaf to promote the movement of Qi and expand the chest, and Notopterygium root and rhizome to unblock Obstruction (Bi). Both release the Exterior and disperse Cold, and Notopterygium root and rhizome guides the formula to the Greater Yang (Tai Yang) channel. Chinese licorice root and rhizome augments the Qi, alleviates stagnation, and harmonizes the actions of the other herbs. ORIGINS AND DEVELOPMENTThis formula originally appeared in the Shang Han Lun. It is a modified version of Cinnamon Twig Decoction (Gui Zhi Tang).
