Release Restraint is based on the classical formula, Escape Restraint Pill (Yue Ju Wan), and is intended to ease the sense of “restraint” caused by stagnation of Qi in the body. While the ‘restraint’ this formula addresses is primarily Qi stagnation, it also addresses the various types of stagnation that develop as a result of lingering Qi stagnation, including Blood or Heat stasis, and the stagnation of Phlegm, Damp and Food. As Qi is the leader of Blood, when Qi stagnation is present for some time, it may eventually contribute to the formation of Blood stasis. Due to the oppressive restraint Qi stagnation imposes in the body, Heat can naturally be generated. The Liver, responsible for the smooth flow of Qi, can easily become constrained by emotional upset, poor dietary habits or exposure to extreme elements. The loss of the smooth flow of Liver Qi in the body starts a cascading effect, creating disharmony in numerous organ and meridian systems, and vital substances such as Blood. Stagnant Liver Qi overacting and invading the Spleen, a particularly common disharmony, can produce the subsequent development of Damp stagnation progressing to the formation of Phlegm, as well as interfere in the assimilation of food. Whichever the disharmony, the hallmark of this formula is stagnation. The classical formula utilizes five herbs to address the six stagnations. Cyperus rhizome resolves Qi stagnation, Sichuan lovage rhizome breaks up Blood stasis, Cang-zhu atractylodes rhizome resolves stagnation due to Phlegm and Damp, Gardenia fruit clears Heat generated by stagnation, and Medicated leaven addresses food stagnation. Release Restraint contains the addition of three herbs to reinforce the Blood invigorating aspect of this formula, and to further promote the movement of Qi. Turmeric root tuber invigorates the Blood, resolves constraint and reduces occasional chest, abdominal or flank stagnation. Saussurea root promotes the movement of Spleen and Stomach Qi, dispels occasional epigastric, abdominal and flank stagnation. Silk tree flower relieves constraint, calms the Spirit and addresses occasional epigastric stagnation. When further Spleen Support is needed, combine with Six Gentlemen, Four Gentlemen or Shen Ling Spleen Support. If there is Kidney deficiency, combine with Rehmannia Six or Rehmannia Eight. ORIGINS AND DEVELOPMENTRelease Restraint is based on the classical formula Escape Restraint Pill (Yue Ju Wan). This formula is found in the Teachings of Zhu Dan Xi (Dan Xi Xin Fa), first published in 1481.
