Smooth Response is based on Moisten the Intestines Pill (Run Chang Wan), a classical formula designed to address occasional constipation due to Dryness. Intestinal Dryness can be caused by internally generated Wind Heat lodged in the Large Intestine or by deficiency of Blood and fluids. It addresses long-standing Blood deficiency, which may be accompanied by manifestations of Wind. This often happens in the elderly, as the aging process consumes the Yin and fluids of the body, causing not only dry joints, hair and nails, but a general intestinal dryness which leads to occasional constipation. It is also an appropriate formula for occasional constipation in postpartum women, where blood loss leads to a deficiency of fluids and occasional dry stools. Smooth Response combines herbs that nourish the Blood, enrich the Yin and moisten the Intestines to support healthy elimination functions. The chief herbs in this formula, dry fried peeled Peach seed and Flax seed contain an abundance of oils to moisten the Intestines and move the bowels. They also break up Blood stasis in the Lower Burner. Chinese rhubarb rhizome and root drains Heat from the Intestines and moves the stools. Although normally considered a strong purgative, its properties are moderated by the oily natures of dry fried peeled Peach seed and Flax seed. Dong quai root tail invigorates and tonifies the Blood, moving and moistening the Intestines. Notopterygium root and rhizome moves obstructions and alleviates stagnation. Smooth Response is often used with adjunct formulas such as Angelica Restorative Formula or Four Substances for Blood deficiency, or Replenish the Left or Rehmannia Six for Yin deficiency. ORIGINS AND DEVELOPMENTSmooth Response is one of the most important formulas to emerge from the Spleen and Stomach School of the 1300’s in China. It was developed by Li Dong-Yuan, who believed that optimal functioning of the Spleen/Stomach was the key to health.
