1. Changes in Herbal Flavors

1. Changes in Herbal Flavors

When the primary symptom remains unchanged and the main formula stays the same, we should add herbs that suit the changing condition, or remove herbs that do not align with the current situation. For example, when using Yin Qiao San to treat wind-heat with exterior symptoms, we can flexibly adjust the formula according to the accompanying symptoms: if the patient experiences dryness due to yin deficiency and thirst, add Tianhua Fen; if the patient experiences heat accumulating in the throat and causing sore throat, remove Jiangji and Dou Chi, adding Ma Bo, Xuan Shen, and Ban Lan Gen; if the patient experiences excessive heat damaging the meridians and causing nosebleeds, remove Jiangji and add Bai Mao Gen and Ce Bai Ye. Similarly, when using Gui Zhi Tang to treat wind-cold with exterior deficiency, we can flexibly adjust the formula according to the accompanying symptoms: if the patient experiences stiffness in the neck and back, add Gegen; if the patient experiences a rapid pulse accompanied by chest fullness, remove Shaoyao; if the patient experiences slight stiffness in the limbs that makes movement difficult, add Fuzi; if the patient experiences shortness of breath, add Houpo and Apricot Kernel; if the patient experiences palpitations and restlessness in the heart, add Yiqiao and Baibai Yao.