What are the composition and effects of Xiao Qinglong Decoction?

Xiao Qing Long Tang (Minor Blue Dragon Decoction) is a traditional Chinese herbal formula composed of eight medicinal ingredients: Ephedra (Ma Huang), Cinnamon Twig (Gui Zhi), Asarum (Xi Xin), Dried Ginger (Gan Jiang), Pinellia (Ban Xia), Schisandra Berry (Wu Wei Zi), Peony Root (Bai Shao), and Honey-fried Licorice (Zhi Gan Cao). It is generally believed to have various therapeutic effects, including harmonizing Ying and Wei qi, relieving asthma and cough, warming and resolving phlegm-dampness, releasing the exterior to dispel cold, and enhancing immunity. If in doubt, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional before use. The detailed explanation is as follows:

1. Harmonizing Ying and Wei Qi

Peony and honey-fried licorice play a role in harmonizing the Ying (nutritive) and Wei (defensive) systems. Peony nourishes blood and regulates the nutritive qi, while honey-fried licorice strengthens the spleen and boosts vital energy. Together, they help balance the circulation of qi and blood in the body, enhance the body's adaptability to environmental changes, and prevent the onset and progression of disease.

2. Relieving Asthma and Cough

The combination of Pinellia and Schisandra effectively alleviates asthma and suppresses cough. Pinellia dries dampness and transforms phlegm, while Schisandra astringes the lungs and stops coughing. These two herbs complement each other, helping to relieve conditions such as asthma and chronic bronchitis caused by cold-dampness.

3. Warming and Resolving Phlegm-Dampness

Dried ginger and Asarum act as ministerial herbs to warm the lungs and resolve fluid retention, while also assisting Ephedra and Cinnamon Twig in releasing the exterior and expelling pathogenic factors. This combination improves symptoms such as excessive cough with thick, sticky phlegm.

4. Releasing the Exterior and Dispelling Cold

Ephedra and Cinnamon Twig serve as the principal (sovereign) herbs, inducing sweating to dispel cold and resolve exterior pathogens. They help rapidly eliminate internal cold, thereby improving symptoms caused by external wind-cold invasion, such as sneezing, runny nose, nasal congestion, dizziness, headache, limb fatigue, and fever.

5. Tonifying Qi and Regulating the Middle Burner

Honey-fried licorice also serves as an assistant and messenger herb. It not only tonifies qi and harmonizes the middle burner but also balances the actions of acrid-dispersing and sour-astringent herbs, making the overall nature of the formula more moderate and harmonious.

In addition, it is recommended to maintain a healthy lifestyle, ensure adequate sleep, improve dietary habits, regulate physical condition, and promote overall health.