Plum Pit Qi is a faithful rendition of the classical formula Pinellia and Magnolia Combination (Ban Xia Hou Po Tang). It is indicated for “Plum Pit Qi” (Mei He Qi), which refers to a sensation like if the “pit of a plum” is stuck in the throat, that cannot be cleared or swallowed. This is a pattern where the stagnation of Qi and the formation of Phlegm are mutually reinforcing. There is frequently an emotional component to this manifestation. The root pattern in Plum Pit Qi is an obstruction of the Qi dynamic that is centered on the downward directing functions of the Lungs and Stomach, causing fluid stagnation that transforms into Phlegm and which in turn inhibits the ascent of the clear Yang. On an emotional level, failure or reluctance to ingest can be seen as an inability to accept certain circumstances and the inability to expel relates to difficulty in full expression. Physically, this pattern may also produce occasional flank discomfort or a sensation of stuffiness in the chest. 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. The concept of Phlegm not only encompasses the tangible substance derived from accumulated mucous secretions, but also a more insubstantial form which lodges in the channels and can lead to accumulations and, in the case of Plum Pit Qi, emotional disturbances. Plum Pit Qi moves stagnant Qi, transforms Phlegm and accumulation, redirects rebellious Qi downward, and soothes the emotions. Licorice cured Pinellia rhizome and Magnolia bark are the chief herbs in this formula. Licorice cured Pinellia rhizome addresses the major aspects of this pattern; it dries Dampness, transforms Phlegm, dissipates accumulations, directs rebellious Qi downward, and harmonizes the Stomach. Magnolia bark dissipates accumulations, moves Qi downward, dries Dampness, transforms Phlegm, promotes the movement of Qi in the Middle Burner and resolves stagnation. Together they address both Qi stagnation and the formation of Phlegm. Poria leaches out Dampness, and supports licorice cured Pinellia rhizome in transforming Phlegm. It tonifies the Spleen, harmonizes the Middle Burner, transforms Phlegm, quiets the Heart and calms the Spirit. Perilla leaf promotes the movement of Qi, warms the Middle Burner, supports the Spleen, and helps to direct the formula upward. Ginger rhizome harmonizes the Stomach, warms the Middle, warms the Lungs and expels Cold. In circumstances in which there is more Qi stagnation presenting, use Augmented Plum Pit Qi instead. Other formulas that address Phlegm patterns include Ascending Clarity, Peaceful Shen, Clear Mind, and Lucid Channel from the Kan Herbals line. Ascending Clarity addresses a pattern of Spleen Qi deficiency that is generating Phlegm and internal Wind obstructing the head. 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 DEVELOPMENTFrom Jin Gui Yao Lue, Prescriptions from the Golden Cabinet, Zhang Zhong-Jing, 150 219 C.E.
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