How long is one course of treatment for Chaihu Shugan San?
Under normal circumstances, the standard course of Chaihu Shugan San (Bupleurum Liver-Soothing Powder) lasts 14 to 21 days, with the exact duration adjusted according to the severity of liver qi stagnation symptoms. Prolonging the treatment blindly is not recommended. If in doubt, it is advisable to follow medical advice when determining the treatment duration. Specific analysis is as follows:

Chaihu Shugan San primarily functions to soothe the liver, regulate qi, promote blood circulation, and relieve pain. It targets symptoms caused by liver qi stagnation, such as chest tightness, flank pain, and belching. For mild cases—such as occasional chest tightness or emotional discomfort—a 14-day cycle is generally sufficient to gradually alleviate qi stagnation and improve symptoms.
If symptoms have persisted for a long time and are accompanied by significant abdominal distension or emotional depression, the treatment course may need to be extended to 21 days. In such cases, allowing the medicine sufficient time to act on the internal organs and regulate qi flow is important to prevent symptom recurrence due to premature discontinuation. However, because this formula contains ingredients that move qi and activate blood circulation, it should not be taken continuously for prolonged periods.
During treatment, patients should maintain a calm and positive mood, avoiding anger and anxiety, which could worsen the condition. A light diet is recommended, with avoidance of spicy and greasy foods. The prescribed dosage must be strictly followed without self-adjustment. If symptoms do not improve or adverse effects such as diarrhea or dizziness occur after taking the medicine, prompt medical consultation is necessary to adjust the treatment plan.