{"title":"Digestive Health \u0026 GI Support","description":"\u003cp\u003eTCM herbal formulas to support digestive health and gastrointestinal function. Rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine, these formulas address constipation, acid reflux, stomach ulcers, IBS, ulcerative colitis, hemorrhoids, bowel infections, and colon cleansing. Each formula targets specific GI imbalances to restore comfort, regularity, and digestive harmony.\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"dissolve-gs-gallstones-cholecystitis-bile-stasis-tcm","title":"Dissolve (GS) – TCM Herbal Formula for Gallstones, Cholecystitis \u0026 Bile Stasis","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDissolve (GS)™\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eTCM herbal formula for gallstones and cholecystitis — dissolves and drains gallstones; cholagogic; anti-inflammatory; antihyperlipidemic; spreads Liver qi; clears damp-heat; facilitates passage of stones\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e⚠️ Contraindicated during pregnancy and nursing. Regardless of size and number of stones, surgery may be the treatment of choice for: acute onset with severe colic; sudden deterioration in overall health; sudden deterioration in cholecystitis or cholelithiasis; poor results from previous treatments with initial signs of liver damage. California warning: This product contains Da Huang (Radix et Rhizoma Rhei). Read and follow directions carefully. Do not use if you have or develop diarrhea, loose stools, or abdominal pain because Da Huang may worsen these conditions and be harmful to your health. Consult your physician if you have frequent diarrhea or if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medication, or have a medical condition.\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eCLINICAL APPLICATIONS\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* \u003cb\u003eCholelithiasis\u003c\/b\u003e — gallstones\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* \u003cb\u003eCholecystitis\u003c\/b\u003e — inflammation of the gallbladder and bile duct\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* \u003cb\u003eOther liver and gallbladder conditions:\u003c\/b\u003e cholestasis, bile stasis, biliary sludge\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eBackground:\u003c\/b\u003e Cholelithiasis and cholecystitis are two of the most common disorders affecting the gallbladder and bile duct. Signs and symptoms include fullness and pain in the right hypochondriac region, low-grade fever, constipation, and leukorrhea. Acute onset is characterized by jaundice, severe colicky pain in the upper right quadrant radiating to the right shoulder and back, nausea, vomiting, aversion to oily and greasy foods, lack of appetite, and anxiety. Diagnostic signs include a positive Murphy's sign and tenderness at the inferior right scapula. Cholelithiasis and cholecystitis commonly occur simultaneously — most commonly seen in women over 30–40 years of age and in obese individuals. They are often undiagnosed or misdiagnosed as gastritis, peptic ulcers, viral hepatitis, angina, or acute pancreatitis. Ultrasound of the gallbladder is the most reliable diagnostic tool (approximately 90–95% accuracy). Over 85% of gallstones in the Western world are cholesterol stones — proper management of cholesterol levels is essential for treatment and prevention. According to TCM, the fundamental etiology is damp-heat: cholecystitis is characterized by damp-heat in the Gallbladder, and cholelithiasis by damp-heat drying up fluids in the Gallbladder.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eDissolve (GS) was developed by Professor Xiao-Ping Zhang of Anhui Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine.\u003c\/b\u003e It has been used for over 30 years in China and has helped several thousand patients with cholecystitis and cholelithiasis.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eKey herb-level clinical data:\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eJin Qian Cao\u003c\/b\u003e (Herba Lysimachiae \/ Lysimachia): dissolves gallstones; increases secretion of bile by liver cells; cholagogic — increases production and excretion of bile acid to resolve current gallstones and prevent formation of new ones\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eLong Dan\u003c\/b\u003e (Radix et Rhizoma Gentianae \/ Gentiana): enters the Liver and Gallbladder to clear damp-heat; marked cholagogic activity via oral ingestion and intravenous injection\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eYin Chen\u003c\/b\u003e (Herba Artemisiae Scopariae \/ Artemisia Capillaris): empirical herb for hepatic and gallbladder disorders; cholagogic — stimulates gallbladder function, increases bile flow to prevent biliary stasis and sludge, increases excretion of bile salt and bilirubin; antihyperlipidemic — lowers plasma cholesterol and beta-lipoproteins; antiobesity — reduces body weight and inhibits lipid accumulation; anti-inflammatory — essential oils block COX-2 expression and inhibit nitric oxide and prostaglandin E(2) production; clinically: daily tea for one month — 82 patients showed average reduction of 42.4 mg\/dL (14.3% decrease) in serum cholesterol\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eWei Ling Xian\u003c\/b\u003e (Radix et Rhizoma Clematidis \/ Clematis): unblocks channels and collaterals; helps dissolve stones; anti-inflammatory — blocks production of pro-inflammatory mediators (nitric oxide and prostaglandin E(2)); clinically: oral decoction 87% effective in treating 120 patients with cholelithiasis\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eHai Jin Sha\u003c\/b\u003e (Spora Lygodii \/ Lygodium Spore): transforms hardness; dissolves stones\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eLi Zhi He\u003c\/b\u003e (Semen Litchi \/ Lychee Seed): relieves abdominal and epigastric pain due to Liver qi constraint\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eZhi Qiao\u003c\/b\u003e (Fructus Aurantii \/ Bitter Orange): unblocks qi obstruction; facilitates passage of gallstones\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eDa Huang\u003c\/b\u003e (Radix et Rhizoma Rhei \/ Rhubarb Root): lowers cholesterol; eliminates damp-heat accumulation via purgative action; marked cholagogic activity (oral and intravenous); anti-inflammatory — inhibits inducible nitric oxide synthase; clinically: 10 patients with acute cholecystitis — clinical signs resolved after average 2.3 days, temperature normal after 2 days, WBC normal after 3.4 days (30–60g decoction every 1–2 hours until abdominal pain resolved); 41 cases of acute cholecystitis — complete recovery using Da Huang 20–50g + Yin Chen 25g + Jin Qian Cao 25g decoction 3x\/day; 47 patients — 76% effective in reducing plasma triglycerides and beta-lipoprotein levels over 3 weeks\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWESTERN THERAPEUTIC ACTIONS\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* \u003cb\u003eDissolves and drains gallstones\u003c\/b\u003e — Jin Qian Cao, Hai Jin Sha, Wei Ling Xian (stone dissolution and passage)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* \u003cb\u003eCholagogic\u003c\/b\u003e — Jin Qian Cao, Long Dan, Da Huang (bile production↑, excretion↑); Yin Chen (bile flow↑, biliary stasis prevention)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* \u003cb\u003eAntihyperlipidemic\u003c\/b\u003e — Yin Chen (cholesterol↓, beta-lipoprotein↓, lipid accumulation↓); Da Huang (triglycerides↓, beta-lipoprotein↓)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* \u003cb\u003eAnti-inflammatory\u003c\/b\u003e — Da Huang (iNOS inhibition); Wei Ling Xian (NO↓, PGE2↓); Yin Chen (COX-2↓, NO↓, PGE2↓)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* \u003cb\u003eAnalgesic \/ antispasmodic\u003c\/b\u003e — Li Zhi He (Liver qi constraint pain); Zhi Qiao (qi obstruction, distension)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eCHINESE THERAPEUTIC ACTIONS\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* Dissolves gallstones; facilitates passage of gallstones (Jin Qian Cao, Hai Jin Sha, Wei Ling Xian)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* Clears damp-heat in Liver and Gallbladder (Long Dan, Da Huang, Yin Chen)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* Spreads Liver qi; relieves abdominal pain (Li Zhi He, Zhi Qiao)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eDOSAGE\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eTreatment:\u003c\/b\u003e 4 capsules three times daily on an empty stomach with warm water. Must be taken continuously for at least three months. In cases of multiple or large stones, continue until stones are dissolved or passed. If severe discomfort, pain, or sensation of obstruction occurs after taking herbs, reduce dosage — these may be signs that large stones are becoming obstructed. Reduce to a comfortable level and stretch the treatment period so stones can dissolve and flush slowly.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003ePost-surgery prevention:\u003c\/b\u003e 2 capsules daily for three months, then 1 capsule daily for another six months.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eClinical notes:\u003c\/b\u003e Ideal candidates for herbal treatment are asymptomatic individuals with stones less than 30 mm in diameter. Conditions most suitable for Chinese herbal treatment include chronic cholecystitis, gallstones in the liver, calcium-composed gallstones, small gallstones, and gallstones after removal of the gallbladder. Elderly or weak patients not suitable for surgical treatment can also benefit. Individuals with high risk of developing cholecystitis or gallstones (the four F's: female, fair, fertile, and fat) will benefit from prophylactic treatment. Ultrasound should be performed prior to using herbs to determine stone size — non-aggressive dosing is optimal for large stones; never prescribe a high dose to flush large stones as it may result in obstruction requiring immediate surgery. Herbal therapy should be limited to mild to moderate cases — if acute manifestations occur or herbal therapy is ineffective after three months, refer to Western medicine for surgery or sonic shock wave treatment.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eSupplementary formulas:\u003c\/b\u003e Hepatitis, jaundice, or high liver enzyme levels — combine with Liver DTX. Constipation — combine with Gentle Lax (Excess). Blood stagnation — add Circulation (SJ). Excess heat — add Gardenia Complex. Liver fire or damp-heat in Liver and Gallbladder — combine with Gentiana Complex. Reduce blood cholesterol and triglycerides — use Cholisma. Cholesterol and triglycerides with fatty liver and obesity — use Cholisma (ES). Peptic ulcers or gastritis — combine with GI Care. Severe pain — use with Herbal ANG. Bloating and distension — add GI Harmony. Angina or chest pain — combine with Circulation. Excess damp and phlegm — add Pinellia Complex. Obese patients with excess appetite — add Herbalite. Diabetes mellitus and high blood glucose — add Equilibrium.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eNutrition:\u003c\/b\u003e For cholecystitis: avoid solid foods for a few days — drink distilled water and fresh juices; introduce liquid foods slowly after 3–4 days. For gallstones: take three tablespoons of olive oil with lemon juice before bed and upon awakening — small gallstones can sometimes be passed with this method (perform ultrasound first to prevent large stones from obstructing the bile duct). Increase applesauce, yogurt, fresh apples, and beets. Avoid red meat, shrimp, lobsters, oysters, fatty or greasy foods, fried foods, spicy foods, margarine, soft drinks, commercial oils, and processed foods. Food allergies can cause gallbladder inflammation and bile duct obstruction — avoid common triggers: eggs, pork, onion, fowl, milk, coffee, and citrus fruits.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eTao of Nutrition (Dr. Maoshing Ni and Cathy McNease):\u003c\/b\u003e Recommended foods: corn silk, water chestnuts, seaweed, beet tops, watermelon, celery, watercress, winter melon, pearl barley, walnuts, watermelon rind, winter melon rind, green tea powder, and distilled water. Drink watermelon juice. Drink celery, carrot, and water chestnut juice. Drink corn silk tea — 3–5 glasses daily. Drink tea from beet tops, winter melon rind, and watermelon rind. Take two teaspoons ground walnuts in corn silk tea. Take one teaspoon green tea powder in warm water three times daily. After consuming any of the above diuretic remedies, do some mild jumping exercise to help loosen up the stones. Avoid spicy foods, fried foods, oily foods, coffee, hard water, spinach, citrus, tomatoes, and spinach combined with tofu or dairy products.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eLifestyle:\u003c\/b\u003e Individuals with gallbladder colic should fast, keep warm, and rest in bed. Detoxification of the liver and colon is helpful for long-term management. Sitz bath is helpful to decongest and detoxify the intestines.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eCASE STUDIES\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003e54-year-old female (S.T.):\u003c\/b\u003e Waking at 3 AM, feeling cold easily, craving sweets, overweight, morning hot flashes; BP 125\/80, HR 75; gallstones and elevated liver enzymes on lab; cold and damp in Spleen with Spleen deficiency and damp-heat in Liver. Dissolve (GS) 12 grams\/day for 1 week. Result: passed two gallstones (recovered through stool). Practitioner concluded patients with gallstones should try Dissolve (GS) before surgery — less invasive and less expensive.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003e55-year-old female (J.J.):\u003c\/b\u003e Right upper quadrant stomach pain; 3 gallstones 2–4 cm each confirmed by Urgent Care; Western doctor recommended surgery. Dissolve (GS) 5 capsules 3x\/day until pain resolved, then 5 capsules 2x\/day for 2 more weeks. Result after 3 days: nausea, acid feeling in throat, and right upper quadrant pain resolved. After 10 days: felt 100% better; primary care physician confirmed no gallstones anywhere via ultrasound. No recurrence since.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003e51-year-old female housekeeper:\u003c\/b\u003e Pain in upper right quadrant of abdomen in gallbladder region; damp-heat in Gallbladder. Dissolve (GS) for 9 months. Result: complete cessation of upper right quadrant pain.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003e72-year-old female (C.B.):\u003c\/b\u003e Gallstones, pain under right ribcage, poor digestion, right shoulder pain; BP 180\/95, HR 85; gallstones and high cholesterol (Western); damp-heat accumulation with Liver qi stagnation. Dissolve (GS) 4.5 grams\/day + Cholisma 1.5 grams\/day + acupuncture. Result after 8 weeks: right shoulder pain fully improved; digestion much better with no more bloating or constipation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eRelated Reading\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlso see: \u003ca href=\"\/products\/liver-dtx\"\u003eLiver DTX\u003c\/a\u003e – for hepatitis, jaundice, or high liver enzyme levels | \u003ca href=\"\/products\/cholisma\"\u003eCholisma\u003c\/a\u003e – to reduce blood cholesterol and triglycerides | \u003ca href=\"\/products\/cholisma-es\"\u003eCholisma (ES)\u003c\/a\u003e – for fatty liver and obesity with high cholesterol | \u003ca href=\"\/products\/gentiana-complex\"\u003eGentiana Complex\u003c\/a\u003e – for Liver fire and damp-heat in Liver and Gallbladder | \u003ca href=\"\/products\/gardenia-complex\"\u003eGardenia Complex\u003c\/a\u003e – for excess heat | \u003ca href=\"\/products\/gi-care\"\u003eGI Care\u003c\/a\u003e – for peptic ulcers or gastritis | \u003ca href=\"\/products\/gi-harmony\"\u003eGI Harmony\u003c\/a\u003e – for bloating and distension | \u003ca href=\"\/products\/herbal-ang\"\u003eHerbal ANG\u003c\/a\u003e – for severe pain | \u003ca href=\"\/products\/gentle-lax-excess\"\u003eGentle Lax (Excess)\u003c\/a\u003e – for constipation | \u003ca href=\"\/products\/circulation-sj\"\u003eCirculation (SJ)\u003c\/a\u003e – for blood stagnation | \u003ca href=\"\/products\/herbalite\"\u003eHerbalite\u003c\/a\u003e – for obesity and excess appetite | \u003ca href=\"\/products\/equilibrium\"\u003eEquilibrium\u003c\/a\u003e – for diabetes and high blood glucose | \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/liver-kidney-detox-support\"\u003eLiver, Kidney \u0026amp; Detox Support Collection\u003c\/a\u003e | \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/digestive-health-gi-support\"\u003eDigestive Health \u0026amp; GI Support Collection\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Modern Herbal Formulas","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":53295233597551,"sku":null,"price":50.27,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0726\/8630\/5391\/files\/DissolveGS.jpg?v=1781649788"},{"product_id":"gi-care-uc-ulcerative-colitis-crohns-disease-inflammatory-bowel-disease-chronic-diarrhea-tcm","title":"GI Care (UC) – TCM Herbal Formula for Ulcerative Colitis, Crohn's Disease, Inflammatory Bowel Disease \u0026 Chronic Diarrhea","description":"\u003ch1\u003eGI Care (UC)™\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eTCM herbal formula for ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease — anti-inflammatory; antispasmodic; antibiotic (antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal); gastroprotective; antidiarrheal; antidotal; dispels damp-heat in the Intestines; relieves diarrhea; disperses stagnation and detoxifies; tonifies yin\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e⚠️ Contraindicated during pregnancy and nursing. Contraindicated in cases of diarrhea due to Spleen qi deficiency or Kidney yang deficiency. Not appropriate for certain complications such as toxic colitis, toxic megacolon, massive hemorrhage, free perforation, or fulminating toxic colitis — surgical intervention may be necessary. Certain over-the-counter or prescription antidiarrheal drugs may worsen the condition and create a toxic megacolon — do not take unless supervised by a qualified health care provider.\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eCLINICAL APPLICATIONS\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* \u003cb\u003eUlcerative colitis\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* \u003cb\u003eCrohn's disease\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* \u003cb\u003eOther inflammatory bowel disease:\u003c\/b\u003e diverticulitis, fistula, colitis\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* \u003cb\u003eChronic diarrhea\u003c\/b\u003e with mucus, pus and blood, feeling of incomplete evacuation, and abdominal cramps\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eBackground:\u003c\/b\u003e Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), including ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease, is characterized by chronic inflammation affecting various parts of the gastrointestinal tract. These are chronic, non-specific, inflammatory, ulcerative diseases with no known etiology. Possible risk factors include immunological factors, infectious agents (bacteria, virus, amoeba), dietary factors (chemicals and drugs), and psychosomatic factors. They usually occur between ages 14–24 or 50–70. Clinical presentation begins with gradual onset of diarrhea with mucus and blood, with symptomatic and asymptomatic intervals. Patients may also experience tenesmus and left lower quadrant pain and cramps. In TCM, these conditions are diagnosed as disharmony between the Spleen\/Stomach and the Liver — Liver qi stagnation overacts on the Spleen and Stomach, impairing transformation and transportation of food; over time, dampness combines with heat to lodge in the Large Intestine, causing diarrhea with inflammation; prolonged diarrhea and loss of fluids also leads to yin deficiency.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eFormula distinction:\u003c\/b\u003e GI Care (UC) is designed for chronic ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease \u003ci\u003ewithout\u003c\/i\u003e active infection — it contains herbs that generate new tissue and repair the normal flora of the intestines. GI Care II is designed for active infection and inflammation of the intestines due to improper food intake, using purgative herbs such as Da Huang (Radix et Rhizoma Rhei) to purge bacteria from the intestines.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eKey herb-level clinical data:\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eHuang Lian\u003c\/b\u003e (Rhizoma Coptidis \/ Coptis Rhizome \/ Goldthread): dispels damp-heat in the Intestines; broad-spectrum antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal; anti-inflammatory with potency comparable to dexamethasone for acute and chronic inflammation; 100 patients with GI inflammation — all improved with Huang Lian + Dou Kou; over 1,000 patients with bacterial dysentery treated with excellent results — marked effectiveness, short treatment duration, low side effects\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eBai Shao\u003c\/b\u003e (Radix Paeoniae Alba \/ White Peony Root): anti-inflammatory — suppresses inflammation; antispasmodic — relieves intestinal spasms and cramps; antibacterial\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eHou Po\u003c\/b\u003e (Cortex Magnoliae Officinalis \/ Magnolia Bark): regulates qi in the abdomen — relieves bloating, distension, and pain; anti-inflammatory — NF-κB inhibition via magnolol and honokiol; antispasmodic — magnolol and honokiol relieve intestinal spasms; antibacterial\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eMa Chi Xian\u003c\/b\u003e (Herba Portulacae \/ Purslane \/ Portulaca): dispels damp-heat in the Intestines; antibacterial — 403 patients with chronic bacterial dysentery: 83.62% effective; 331 patients with acute bacterial dysentery: 89.12% effective\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eShi Liu Pi\u003c\/b\u003e (Pericarpium Granati \/ Pomegranate Peel): antidiarrheal; antibacterial; gastroprotective — protects stomach from alcohol-, indomethacin-, and aspirin-induced ulcers by increasing pH and mucus secretion; binds intestines; stops diarrhea; dispels pus; stops bleeding; generates new tissue\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eWu Bei Zi\u003c\/b\u003e (Galla Chinensis \/ Chinese Gall \/ Gallnut): marked antidiarrheal effect — suppresses diarrhea due to enterotoxigenic \u003ci\u003eE. coli\u003c\/i\u003e (the most frequently isolated enteropathogen, accounting for ~210 million diarrhea episodes annually); binds intestines; stops diarrhea; dispels pus; stops bleeding; generates new tissue\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eShan Zha Tan\u003c\/b\u003e (Fructus Crataegi Carbonisatum \/ Charred Hawthorn): 100 patients with acute bacterial enteritis — satisfactory results; induces gastric acid production; facilitates digestion and absorption; consolidates stool; treats diarrhea; stops bleeding\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eShan Yao\u003c\/b\u003e (Rhizoma Dioscoreae \/ Dioscorea \/ Chinese Yam): nourishes Spleen yin; relieves diarrhea; treats indigestion — 101 infants with indigestion and related complications effectively treated; reduces stress of the intestines\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eMai Ya\u003c\/b\u003e (Fructus Hordei Germinatus \/ Barley Sprout \/ Malt): promotes digestion; increases gastric emptying time and intestinal peristalsis; stops bleeding\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eNan Sha Shen\u003c\/b\u003e (Radix Adenophorae \/ Adenophora \/ Ladybell Root): nourishes yin; dries dampness\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eDi Yu Tan\u003c\/b\u003e (Radix Sanguisorbae Carbonisatum \/ Charred Sanguisorba \/ Charred Burnet Root): binds intestines; stops diarrhea; dispels pus; stops bleeding; generates new tissue\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eChun Pi\u003c\/b\u003e (Cortex Ailanthi \/ Ailanthus Bark \/ Tree of Heaven): binds intestines; stops diarrhea; dispels pus; stops bleeding; generates new tissue\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eFang Feng\u003c\/b\u003e (Radix Saposhnikoviae \/ Saposhnikovia \/ Siler): stops diarrhea; relieves pain; relieves abdominal and intestinal spasms and cramps; facilitates elimination of heavy metals that may irritate the bowel and cause intestinal inflammation\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eYi Yi Ren\u003c\/b\u003e (Semen Coicis \/ Coix \/ Job's Tears): treats intestinal abscess; dispels pus and mucus from stool; dries dampness; enters Lung — connected to Large Intestine via \u003ci\u003ezang fu\u003c\/i\u003e relationship; enhances Lung's ability to metabolize water and prevent dampness accumulation in the Large Intestine\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eDong Gua Zi\u003c\/b\u003e (Semen Benincasae \/ Winter Melon Seed \/ Benincasa): treats intestinal abscess; dispels pus and mucus from stool; dries dampness; enters Lung — connected to Large Intestine via \u003ci\u003ezang fu\u003c\/i\u003e relationship\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWESTERN THERAPEUTIC ACTIONS\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* \u003cb\u003eAnti-inflammatory\u003c\/b\u003e — Huang Lian + Huang Bo (dexamethasone-comparable, acute and chronic); Bai Shao (total glucosides, cytokine signaling); Hou Po (NF-κB inhibition, magnolol, honokiol)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* \u003cb\u003eAntispasmodic\u003c\/b\u003e — Bai Shao (intestinal spasms, cramps); Hou Po (magnolol, honokiol, guinea pig ileum); Fang Feng (abdominal and intestinal spasms)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* \u003cb\u003eAntibiotic (antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal)\u003c\/b\u003e — Huang Lian (broad spectrum, 1,000+ dysentery patients); Ma Chi Xian (83–89% dysentery); Bai Shao, Hou Po, Shi Liu Pi (antibacterial)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* \u003cb\u003eAntidiarrheal\u003c\/b\u003e — Wu Bei Zi (enterotoxigenic E. coli, 210M episodes\/year); Shan Yao + Shan Zha (consolidate stool); Shi Liu Pi, Di Yu Tan, Chun Pi (bind intestines)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* \u003cb\u003eGastroprotective \/ digestive\u003c\/b\u003e — Shi Liu Pi (pH↑, mucus secretion↑, ulcer protection); Shan Yao (indigestion, intestinal stress↓); Mai Ya (gastric emptying↑, peristalsis↑); Shan Zha (gastric acid↑)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* \u003cb\u003eAntidotal \/ detoxifying\u003c\/b\u003e — Fang Feng (heavy metal elimination); Huang Lian (toxin clearance)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* \u003cb\u003eHemostatic\u003c\/b\u003e — Di Yu Tan, Chun Pi, Shi Liu Pi, Wu Bei Zi, Shan Zha Tan, Mai Ya (stop bleeding, generate new tissue)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eCHINESE THERAPEUTIC ACTIONS\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* Dispels damp-heat in the Intestines (Huang Lian, Ma Chi Xian)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* Relieves diarrhea; binds intestines (Wu Bei Zi, Shi Liu Pi, Di Yu Tan, Chun Pi, Shan Yao, Shan Zha Tan)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* Disperses stagnation and detoxifies (Fang Feng, Huang Lian)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* Dispels pus and mucus; treats intestinal abscess (Yi Yi Ren, Dong Gua Zi, Wu Bei Zi)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* Regulates qi; relieves bloating and distension (Hou Po)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* Relieves abdominal spasms and pain (Bai Shao, Fang Feng)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* Tonifies yin; nourishes Spleen yin (Nan Sha Shen, Shan Yao)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* Stops bleeding; generates new tissue (Di Yu Tan, Chun Pi, Shi Liu Pi, Shan Zha Tan)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eDOSAGE\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eStandard:\u003c\/b\u003e 3–4 capsules three times daily on an empty stomach with warm water. In acute conditions, dosage may be increased up to 8–10 capsules three times daily for no more than four days or until symptoms subside. After relief of symptoms, reduce to 3–4 capsules daily. For prevention or maintenance, take 2 capsules daily.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eSupplementary formulas:\u003c\/b\u003e Bleeding — add Notoginseng 9. Diverticulitis and fistula — add Resolve (AI) and Astringent Complex. Burning diarrhea with tenesmus — add GI Care II. Hemorrhoids — add GI Care (HMR). Stress-related UC or Crohn's — add Calm or Calm (ES). Bloating — add GI Harmony. Constipation — add Gentle Lax (Deficient). Low-grade or night fever — add Balance (Heat). Excess heat or fever — add Gardenia Complex. Perirectal abscesses with fever — add Resolve (AI) and Herbal ABX. Intestinal spasms or abdominal cramping — add Flex (SC). Anemia — add Schisandra ZZZ. Excessive damp\/phlegm — add Pinellia Complex. Severe inflammation — combine with Astringent Complex. Chronic diarrhea with overall weakness and deficiency — add Imperial Tonic. Chronic diarrhea with qi deficiency (weight loss, malaise, fatigue, poor appetite) — add GI Tonic (take when symptoms are in remission or under control).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eNutrition:\u003c\/b\u003e Encourage consumption of apricots, winter melon, asparagus, avocados, bananas, broccoli, brown rice, dried fruit, figs, salmon, garlic, green leafy vegetables, soy products, and yogurt. Avoid all foods containing sugar (cake, dessert, candy, chocolate, canned juice, soft drinks, caffeine, stevia, agave, xylitol, corn syrup). Avoid fermented foods (cheese, fermented tofu). Avoid dairy (milk, cream, yogurt, cheese, ice cream). Avoid warm\/hot natured foods that damage qi and yin: mango, durian, coffee, alcohol, energy drinks, and spicy\/pungent\/aromatic vegetables (pepper, garlic, onions, basil, rosemary, cumin, fennel, anise, leeks, chives, scallions, thyme, saffron, wormwood, mustard, chili pepper, wasabi). Avoid artificial coloring. Minimize meat; avoid processed meats (lunch meats, hot dogs, sausages contain nitrites associated with inflammation).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eTao of Nutrition — Diarrhea (Dr. Maoshing Ni and Cathy McNease):\u003c\/b\u003e Recommended foods: garlic, black pepper, blueberries, cinnamon, raspberry leaves, lotus seeds, burned rice, yams, sweet potatoes, fresh fig leaves, peas, buckwheat, litchi, guava peel, apple, charcoaled bread, ginger, pearl barley, basil, and unripe prunes. Cook rice porridge with lotus seed and yam or with barley. Cook rice porridge with ginger and black pepper. Eat sweet rice porridge or burnt rice\/bread. Take two tablespoons of dried apples three times daily on an empty stomach with warm water. Drink black tea. Bake two bulbs of garlic until black, boil in water, and drink the tea. Make tea from guava peel; from ginger, fennel, basil, and Chinese black dates; from unripe prunes; or from dried litchi and Chinese black dates. Avoid cold, raw foods, most fruits, juices, and overeating. Gastritis and colitis: drink diluted lotus root juice.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eLifestyle:\u003c\/b\u003e Avoid drugs and chemicals that cause or aggravate UC and Crohn's disease — the list of offending substances may differ for every patient. Bed rest and relaxation are helpful for short- and long-term recovery.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eCASE STUDIES\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003e62-year-old female (S.C.):\u003c\/b\u003e Chronic intestinal pain, blood in stool, rectal bleeding; previously hospitalized for blood clot in leg — hemoglobin decreased, two pints of blood infused, weight dropped from 90 to 79 lbs, increased stroke risk; peripheral neuropathy, dorsal foot edema, hair loss, insomnia; damp-heat in Intestines, Kidney deficiency, blood stasis in lower \u003ci\u003ejiao\u003c\/i\u003e; ulcerative colitis. GI Care (UC) 4 capsules 3x\/day (continued Remicade, iron, Pepcid). Result at 1 month: colon saved — no longer needed colostomy; bowel movements decreased from 12 to 2 per day; bleeding stopped within 2 weeks; stools went from very watery to full formed and soft.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003e49-year-old female:\u003c\/b\u003e Chronic ulcerative colitis, epigastric and abdominal pain, bloody stool; 2–3 bowel movements per day, constantly tired; dark purple tongue with thick greasy yellow coat, deep slippery pulse; damp-heat and toxins in Large Intestine; previous treatments effective but bloody stools returned upon discontinuation. GI Care (UC) for 30 days. Result: significant improvement of all symptoms; bowel movement returned to normal without blood. Follow-up 1 year later: remained healthy with no relapse.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eRelated Reading\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlso see: \u003ca href=\"\/products\/gi-care-ii\"\u003eGI Care II\u003c\/a\u003e – for active GI infection and inflammation | \u003ca href=\"\/products\/gi-care-hmr\"\u003eGI Care (HMR)\u003c\/a\u003e – for hemorrhoids | \u003ca href=\"\/products\/gi-harmony\"\u003eGI Harmony\u003c\/a\u003e – for bloating and gas | \u003ca href=\"\/products\/gi-tonic\"\u003eGI Tonic\u003c\/a\u003e – for Spleen qi deficiency and chronic digestive weakness | \u003ca href=\"\/products\/resolve-ai\"\u003eResolve (AI)\u003c\/a\u003e – for diverticulitis and fistula | \u003ca href=\"\/products\/astringent-complex\"\u003eAstringent Complex\u003c\/a\u003e – for severe inflammation | \u003ca href=\"\/products\/notoginseng-9\"\u003eNotoginseng 9\u003c\/a\u003e – for GI bleeding | \u003ca href=\"\/products\/calm\"\u003eCalm\u003c\/a\u003e – for stress-related IBD | \u003ca href=\"\/products\/herbal-abx\"\u003eHerbal ABX\u003c\/a\u003e – for perirectal abscess and infection | \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/digestive-health-gi-support\"\u003eDigestive Health \u0026amp; GI Support Collection\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Modern Herbal Formulas","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":53323167039599,"sku":null,"price":31.33,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0726\/8630\/5391\/files\/GICareUC_48ddf57b-4d9d-45f3-8768-07cf0ed5dc42.jpg?v=1782160271"},{"product_id":"gi-harmony-irritable-bowel-syndrome-ibs-gas-bloating-diarrhea-constipation-tcm","title":"GI Harmony – TCM Herbal Formula for Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), Gas, Bloating \u0026 Alternating Diarrhea and Constipation","description":"\u003ch1\u003eGI Harmony™\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eTCM herbal formula for irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) — soothes GI irritation; regulates and restores gastrointestinal functions; relieves diarrhea and constipation; alleviates pain, inflammation, spasms, and cramps; relieves bloating and flatulence; tonifies the Spleen; regulates Liver qi; clears damp-heat\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e⚠️ Contraindicated during pregnancy and nursing. Contains Dang Gui (Radix Angelicae Sinensis) — patients on anticoagulant or antiplatelet therapies such as Coumadin (warfarin) should use with caution or not at all due to higher risk of bleeding and bruising.\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eCLINICAL APPLICATIONS\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* \u003cb\u003eIrritable bowel syndrome (IBS)\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* \u003cb\u003eDisharmony of the GI tract:\u003c\/b\u003e alternating diarrhea and constipation with abdominal bloating, pain, flatulence, feeling of incomplete evacuation, and straining and urgency of bowel movements\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* \u003cb\u003eVarious bowel disorders:\u003c\/b\u003e diverticulitis, mucous colitis, nervous bowel, irritable colon, and spastic colon\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eBackground:\u003c\/b\u003e IBS is a motility disorder involving the entire gastrointestinal tract causing varying degrees of abdominal discomfort and pain, constipation and\/or diarrhea, and abdominal bloating. Patients often notice a change in bowel movement pattern, mucus in the stool, and sensation of incomplete evacuation. Though the exact cause is unknown, emotional factors, diet, drugs, chemicals, or toxic substances often precipitate or aggravate the condition. In TCM, IBS is caused by Spleen qi deficiency and Liver qi stagnation — Liver overacting on the Spleen and Stomach impairs normal transformation and transportation of food, producing loose stools, mucus, pain, incomplete evacuation, and bloating. GI Harmony tonifies the Spleen, harmonizes the Stomach, spreads Liver qi to relieve bloating and pain, and drains damp-heat in the Intestines to reduce inflammation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eClinical evidence:\u003c\/b\u003e GI Harmony is derived from the standard treatment of IBS used in a landmark clinical trial conducted by the University of Western Sydney MacArthur in Australia — a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study of 116 patients fulfilling the Rome criteria, published in JAMA (November 11, 1998). After 16 weeks of treatment, gastroenterologists concluded that both individualized and standard herbal treatment showed significant improvement in bowel symptom score, global improvement, and reduced degree of interference with life compared to placebo.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eKey herb-level clinical data:\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eBai Zhu\u003c\/b\u003e (Rhizoma Atractylodis Macrocephalae \/ White Atractylodes): tonifies Spleen; dispels dampness; dual effect on the digestive tract — treats diarrhea at low doses and constipation at high doses; ideal for alternating diarrhea and constipation; 320 infants with diarrhea treated with Bai Zhu herbal powder 3x\/day before meals with good results\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eDang Shen\u003c\/b\u003e (Radix Codonopsis \/ Codonopsis \/ Pilosula): tonifies Spleen qi; marked preventative and treatment effects on peptic ulcers — increases gastric emptying time, decreases severity of ulceration, increases prostaglandin in the stomach\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eFu Ling\u003c\/b\u003e (Poria \/ Poria Cocos \/ Poria Mushroom): tonifies Spleen; dispels dampness; antidiarrheal — 93 infants with diarrhea treated with good symptomatic relief and shortened duration\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eYi Yi Ren\u003c\/b\u003e (Semen Coicis \/ Coix \/ Job's Tears): tonifies Spleen; dispels dampness\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eChai Hu\u003c\/b\u003e (Radix Bupleuri \/ Bupleurum): spreads Liver qi; relieves bloating, pain, and stress; one of the most effective herbs for emotional and psychological disorders — treats depression, neurosis, schizophrenia, and psychosis; directly addresses the emotional component of IBS\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eHou Po\u003c\/b\u003e (Cortex Magnoliae Officinalis \/ Magnolia Bark): regulates qi in the abdomen — relieves bloating, distension, and pain; decreases incidence of intestinal bloating; inhibits gastric acid secretion; anti-inflammatory — NF-κB inhibition via magnolol and honokiol; antispasmodic\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eChen Pi\u003c\/b\u003e (Pericarpium Citri Reticulatae \/ Tangerine Peel \/ Citrus): regulates qi; dispels phlegm; relieves bloating and gas\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eBo He\u003c\/b\u003e (Herba Menthae \/ Peppermint \/ Mentha): regulates qi; relieves bloating, gas, and stress\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eChuan Mu Xiang\u003c\/b\u003e (Radix Vladimiriae \/ Vladimiriae \/ Costus Root): regulates qi; relieves bloating and flatulence; 100% effectiveness in 29 patients to reduce flatulence due to indigestion, acute gastroenteritis, gastric nervosa, and post-surgical complications\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eBai Shao\u003c\/b\u003e (Radix Paeoniae Alba \/ White Peony Root): nourishes blood; softens the Liver; relieves cramps; treats constipation; antispasmodic; analgesic — Bai Shao + Gan Cao: strong synergistic analgesic and antispasmodic effect; 85 patients with intestinal cramps and spasms treated with great success; 60+ patients with chronic habitual constipation treated with great success\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eDang Gui\u003c\/b\u003e (Radix Angelicae Sinensis \/ Angelica Sinensis \/ Dong Quai): nourishes blood; softens the Liver; relieves cramps; treats constipation; analgesic and anti-inflammatory with potency similar to or greater than aspirin; 94% effectiveness for chronic constipation in 50 elderly patients (with Gan Cao and others)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eBai Zhi\u003c\/b\u003e (Radix Angelicae Dahuricae \/ Angelica Dahurica): enters Stomach and Spleen channels; stops diarrhea; eliminates pus; relieves pain; potent analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antispasmodic; effectively treated 40 patients with gastric pain due to gastric ulcer, duodenal ulcer, and chronic gastritis\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eHuang Lian\u003c\/b\u003e (Rhizoma Coptidis \/ Coptis \/ Goldthread): clears damp-heat in the Intestines; anti-inflammatory — inhibits interleukin-1β and TNF-α via NF-κB; berberine; combined with Huang Bo: anti-inflammatory potency comparable to dexamethasone (Decadron) and celecoxib (Celebrex) for acute and chronic inflammatory diseases; 100 patients with inflammatory bowel conditions effectively treated\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eHuang Bo\u003c\/b\u003e (Cortex Phellodendri Chinensis \/ Phellodendron \/ Amur Cork Tree): clears damp-heat in the Intestines; anti-inflammatory — inhibits interleukin-1β and TNF-α; combined with Huang Lian: dexamethasone- and celecoxib-comparable anti-inflammatory\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eYin Chen\u003c\/b\u003e (Herba Artemisiae Scopariae \/ Artemisia Scoparia \/ Capillaris): clears damp-heat; increases production of bile to help digestion\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eChe Qian Zi\u003c\/b\u003e (Semen Plantaginis \/ Plantago Seed \/ Psyllium): dispels water through urination to consolidate stool; antidiarrheal; anti-inflammatory — nitric oxide inhibition; 63 of 69 infants with diarrhea showed complete recovery within 1–2 days using 30g decoction\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eQin Pi\u003c\/b\u003e (Cortex Fraxini \/ Fraxinus \/ Ash Bark): clears damp-heat in the Intestines\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eWu Wei Zi\u003c\/b\u003e (Fructus Schisandrae Chinensis \/ Schisandra \/ Five-Flavor Berry): stops diarrhea; deoxyschizandrin — inhibits gastric acid secretion; beneficial effects in treatment of gastric ulcer\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eHuo Xiang\u003c\/b\u003e (Herba Agastaches \/ Agastache \/ Patchouli): stops diarrhea; harmonizes the middle \u003ci\u003ejiao\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003ePao Jiang\u003c\/b\u003e (Rhizoma Zingiberis Praeparatum \/ Prepared Ginger): harmonizes the middle \u003ci\u003ejiao\u003c\/i\u003e; enhances intestinal peristalsis; increases production of gastric mucous membranes; restores normal intestinal activity\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eFang Feng\u003c\/b\u003e (Radix Saposhnikoviae \/ Saposhnikovia \/ Siler): stops diarrhea; relieves pain; anti-inflammatory — nitric oxide inhibition\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eZhi Gan Cao\u003c\/b\u003e (Radix et Rhizoma Glycyrrhizae Praeparata cum Melle \/ Honey-Prepared Licorice): harmonizes the middle \u003ci\u003ejiao\u003c\/i\u003e; analgesic and antispasmodic (synergistic with Bai Shao); peptic ulcer — inhibits gastric acid secretion, binds and deactivates gastric acid, promotes recovery from ulceration; glycyrrhizin — remarkable detoxifying effect against drug poisoning (chloral hydrate, cocaine, barbiturates, mercury, lead), food poisoning (tetrodotoxin, snake, mushrooms), and others (enterotoxin, herbicides, pesticides); cortisone-comparable steroid-like anti-inflammatory effect\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWESTERN THERAPEUTIC ACTIONS\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* \u003cb\u003eRegulates GI function \/ dual diarrhea-constipation balance\u003c\/b\u003e — Bai Zhu (dual effect, low dose diarrhea \/ high dose constipation); Pao Jiang (peristalsis↑, gastric mucosa↑); Mai Ya (gastric emptying↑, peristalsis↑)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* \u003cb\u003eAntidiarrheal\u003c\/b\u003e — Bai Zhu, Wu Wei Zi, Che Qian Zi, Fu Ling (diarrhea); Huo Xiang, Fang Feng (stops diarrhea)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* \u003cb\u003eLaxative \/ constipation relief\u003c\/b\u003e — Bai Shao + Gan Cao (60+ patients); Dang Gui + Gan Cao (94% elderly); Dang Gui (constipation)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* \u003cb\u003eAnti-inflammatory\u003c\/b\u003e — Huang Lian + Huang Bo (dexamethasone\/celecoxib-comparable, IL-1β↓, TNF-α↓, NF-κB↓); Hou Po (NF-κB, magnolol, honokiol); Fang Feng + Che Qian Zi (nitric oxide↓); Gan Cao (cortisone-comparable, glycyrrhizin)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* \u003cb\u003eAnalgesic \/ antispasmodic\u003c\/b\u003e — Bai Shao + Gan Cao (85 patients intestinal cramps); Dang Gui (aspirin-comparable); Bai Zhi (gastric pain, 40 patients); Hou Po (antispasmodic)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* \u003cb\u003eGastroprotective \/ anti-ulcer\u003c\/b\u003e — Dang Shen (peptic ulcer, prostaglandin↑); Wu Wei Zi (gastric acid↓); Hou Po (gastric acid↓); Gan Cao (gastric acid↓, ulcer recovery)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* \u003cb\u003eEmotional \/ psychosomatic\u003c\/b\u003e — Chai Hu (depression, neurosis, schizophrenia, psychosis); Dan Shen (NSAID\/aspirin GI protection)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* \u003cb\u003eDetoxification\u003c\/b\u003e — Gan Cao (glycyrrhizin: drug, food, herbicide, pesticide poisoning)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eCHINESE THERAPEUTIC ACTIONS\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* Tonifies Spleen qi; dispels dampness (Dang Shen, Bai Zhu, Fu Ling, Yi Yi Ren)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* Spreads Liver qi; relieves bloating, pain, and stress (Chai Hu, Hou Po, Chen Pi, Bo He, Chuan Mu Xiang)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* Nourishes blood; softens Liver; relieves cramps (Bai Shao, Dang Gui)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* Stops diarrhea (Huo Xiang, Fang Feng, Wu Wei Zi, Bai Zhu, Che Qian Zi)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* Clears damp-heat in the Intestines (Huang Lian, Huang Bo, Yin Chen, Che Qian Zi, Qin Pi)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* Harmonizes the middle \u003ci\u003ejiao\u003c\/i\u003e (Pao Jiang, Zhi Gan Cao)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eDOSAGE\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eStandard:\u003c\/b\u003e 3–4 capsules three times daily with warm water. Dosage can be increased up to 8–10 capsules three times daily in acute cases until symptoms subside. For maximum effectiveness, take on an empty stomach.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eClinical note:\u003c\/b\u003e Take Calm to continually relieve Liver qi stagnation, especially with a stressful lifestyle or career — GI Harmony and Calm can be taken at equal portions for patients with IBS who are constantly stressed. Female patients with IBS are likely to note aggravation of symptoms before each menstrual cycle — Calm is recommended with GI Harmony for maximum effect.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eSupplementary formulas:\u003c\/b\u003e Stress-related IBS — add Calm. IBS with insomnia from \u003ci\u003eshen\u003c\/i\u003e disturbance (excess) — add Calm (ES). IBS with insomnia from stress (deficiency) — add Calm ZZZ. Constipation — add Gentle Lax (Deficient). Hemorrhoids — add GI Care (HMR). Fistula and diverticulitis — add Resolve (AI) and Astringent Complex. Peptic ulcer — add GI Care. Burning diarrhea or dysentery — add GI Care II. Fatigue or weakness — add Imperial Tonic. Excess fire — add Gardenia Complex. Bleeding — add Notoginseng 9. Excessive damp and phlegm — add Pinellia Complex.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eNutrition:\u003c\/b\u003e Avoid gas-producing foods: onions, soda, beans, cabbage, brussel sprouts, cauliflower, and broccoli. Use probiotics to relieve bloating and IBS symptoms. Eat a variety of fresh organic fruits and vegetables of all colors. Incorporate high-fiber whole grains and nuts. Drink warm or hot liquids with meals — cold or iced drinks hinder natural peristaltic movements. Eat antioxidant-rich foods (vitamin A, C, E): citrus fruits, carrots, green leafy vegetables, green tea. Chew food completely and thoroughly. Always eat breakfast — optimal digestive time is 8–10 a.m. per the TCM clock. Allow 2–3 hours between the last meal and bedtime. Avoid food allergens. Avoid fast food, processed foods, junk food, artificial sugars, carbonated drinks, meat, greasy food, alcohol, caffeine, dairy (except unsweetened low-fat yogurt), tap water, iron supplements, and pesticide-sprayed produce. Avoid all sugar (cake, dessert, candy, chocolate, canned juice, soft drinks, stevia, agave, xylitol, corn syrup). Avoid raw\/uncooked meats (sashimi, sushi). Minimize cooling foods: tofu, tomato, celery, cucumber, eggplant, watermelon, citrus, banana — cooling property can be neutralized by cooking or adding 20 pieces of Gou Qi Zi (Fructus Lycii). Avoid carbohydrates like white rice and bread (produce dampness). No shellfish (enter the \u003ci\u003eyangming\u003c\/i\u003e Stomach channel). Avoid fermented foods, dairy, lamb, beef, goose, duck, deep-fried or greasy foods. Avoid mango, durian, coffee, alcohol, energy drinks, and spicy\/pungent\/aromatic vegetables (pepper, garlic, onions, basil, rosemary, cumin, fennel, anise, leeks, chives, scallions, thyme, saffron, wormwood, mustard, chili pepper, wasabi). Avoid artificial coloring. Minimize meat; avoid processed meats (nitrites associated with inflammation).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eTao of Nutrition — Diarrhea (Dr. Maoshing Ni and Cathy McNease):\u003c\/b\u003e Recommended: garlic, black pepper, blueberries, cinnamon, raspberry leaves, lotus seeds, burned rice, yams, sweet potatoes, fresh fig leaves, peas, buckwheat, litchi, guava peel, apple, charcoaled bread, ginger, pearl barley, basil, unripe prunes. Cook rice porridge with lotus seed and yam or with barley; with ginger and black pepper. Eat burnt rice or bread. Make tea from dried litchi and Chinese black dates; from guava peel; from ginger, fennel, basil, and Chinese black dates; from unripe prunes. Take two tablespoons of dried apples 3x\/day on empty stomach with warm water. Drink black tea. Bake two bulbs of garlic until black, boil in water, drink the tea. Avoid cold, raw foods, most fruits, juices, and overeating.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eTao of Nutrition — Constipation:\u003c\/b\u003e Recommended: bananas, apples, walnuts, figs, spinach, peaches, pears, pine nuts, sesame seeds, mulberries, grapefruit, yams, honey, apricot kernel, yogurt, alfalfa sprouts, beets, cabbage, bok choy, cauliflower, potato. Eat two bananas on empty stomach with a glass of water. Drink lukewarm water with 2 tsp honey on empty stomach. Drink blended beets and cabbage on empty stomach. Make beet soup. Eat 5–10 figs on empty stomach with water. Eat a fresh apple on empty stomach daily. Drink mulberry juice. Eat lightly steamed asparagus and cabbage at night. Avoid spicy foods, fried foods, and meat.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eLifestyle:\u003c\/b\u003e Stress is a major factor in IBS — a relaxed, positive outlook is very important to recovery. Apply a heat pad to the abdomen to relieve pain from bloating and distension. Light abdominal massage in circular motions (clockwise then counterclockwise, starting small and gradually becoming bigger) for 5 minutes daily helps relieve distension, discomfort, and pain. Pass gas whenever needed to relieve qi stagnation. For chronic diarrhea: grind She Chuang Zi (Fructus Cnidii) or Wu Zhu Yu (Fructus Evodiae) into fine powder, dry fry until warm, and place on the umbilicus covered by gauze or tape — change every 24 hours; 60g of sea salt may be used as a substitute if herbs are unavailable.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eCASE STUDIES\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eFemale patient (20-year IBS history):\u003c\/b\u003e Diarrhea 10–15 times per day immediately after meals; Liver overacting on Spleen and Stomach. GI Harmony 4 capsules 3x\/day + acupuncture. Result at 1 month: more time elapsed before diarrhea after meals. Result at 2 months: only 2–3 episodes in two weeks. Result at 3 months: only 1–2 episodes per month. Currently: no flare-ups in 2 months — keeps GI Harmony on hand if needed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003e42-year-old female (S.F.):\u003c\/b\u003e Diarrhea with extreme urgency, worse with stress; wiry thready pulse, red tongue with long center crack, dark circles under eyes; Liver overacting on Spleen. GI Harmony + Calm. Result: doing well with well-formed bowel movements; also avoided caffeine and went to bed before 11 p.m.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003e65-year-old female (D.S.):\u003c\/b\u003e Chronic IBS with mostly loose stools and occasional constipation; gallbladder removed; minimal discomfort in all quadrants; Spleen qi deficiency and damp-cold. GI Harmony (higher amounts, longer period). Result: quiet digestion — very pleased with results.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003e42-year-old female (P.Q.):\u003c\/b\u003e Acid reflux and 20-year IBS history; on Xanax (alprazolam), Nexium (esomeprazole), and other Western medications. GI Harmony 4 capsules 3x\/day. Result at 4 days: improvement noted. Successfully off all Western medications. Doctor described formula as \"a miracle in a bottle.\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003e42-year-old female (G.M.):\u003c\/b\u003e Lower \u003ci\u003ejiao\u003c\/i\u003e pain, extreme fatigue, constipation, depression, poor concentration, pain with diarrhea, palpitations, night sweats; chronic fatigue syndrome; yin deficiency with deficiency heat. Balance (Heat) + GI Harmony + Gentle Lax (Deficient). Result at 3 weeks: little to no night sweats; bowels normalized; GI tract pain much better; patient stated she could \"smile and face the day.\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003e7.5-year-old dog (X.L.):\u003c\/b\u003e IBS with loose sticky stools and occasional constipation; Liver qi stagnation with Spleen qi deficiency. GI Harmony half capsule as needed. Result: stools cleared up right away with perfect stools for many days after each dose.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eRelated Reading\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlso see: \u003ca href=\"\/products\/calm\"\u003eCalm\u003c\/a\u003e – for stress and Liver qi stagnation | \u003ca href=\"\/products\/gi-care-uc\"\u003eGI Care (UC)\u003c\/a\u003e – for ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease | \u003ca href=\"\/products\/gi-care-ii\"\u003eGI Care II\u003c\/a\u003e – for burning diarrhea and dysentery | \u003ca href=\"\/products\/gi-care\"\u003eGI Care\u003c\/a\u003e – for peptic ulcer | \u003ca href=\"\/products\/gi-care-hmr\"\u003eGI Care (HMR)\u003c\/a\u003e – for hemorrhoids | \u003ca href=\"\/products\/gentle-lax-deficient\"\u003eGentle Lax (Deficient)\u003c\/a\u003e – for constipation | \u003ca href=\"\/products\/resolve-ai\"\u003eResolve (AI)\u003c\/a\u003e – for diverticulitis and fistula | \u003ca href=\"\/products\/imperial-tonic\"\u003eImperial Tonic\u003c\/a\u003e – for fatigue and weakness | \u003ca href=\"\/products\/pinellia-complex\"\u003ePinellia Complex\u003c\/a\u003e – for excessive damp and phlegm | \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/digestive-health-gi-support\"\u003eDigestive Health \u0026amp; GI Support Collection\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Modern Herbal Formulas","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":53323185094767,"sku":null,"price":28.36,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0726\/8630\/5391\/files\/GIHarmony.jpg?v=1782161005"},{"product_id":"gi-care-acid-reflux-stomach-ulcer-assistance","title":"GI Care – TCM Herbal Formula for Acid Reflux, Heartburn, Gastric Ulcer, Duodenal Ulcer, Gastritis \u0026 H. pylori Infection","description":"\u003ch1\u003eGI Care™\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eTCM herbal formula for acid reflux, gastric ulcer, duodenal ulcer, gastritis, and H. pylori infection — antiulcer; antacid; antibiotic against H. pylori; analgesic; gastroprotective; quells Stomach fire; spreads Liver qi stagnation; strengthens middle jiao\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e⚠️ Do not use in patients with atrophic gastritis with decreased or absent gastric acid secretion — this formula neutralizes and suppresses stomach acid and may worsen that condition. Patients with cholecystitis or cholelithiasis are often misdiagnosed as having GI problems — correct diagnosis is critical. Allergy warning: Shen Qu (Massa Fermentata) contains wheat — persons with wheat allergy should not take this product. Rule out atrophic gastritis before treating ulcers — if untreated, atrophic gastritis may lead to gastric carcinoma. Patients on NSAIDs may have asymptomatic ulcers — check regularly.\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eCLINICAL APPLICATIONS\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* \u003cb\u003ePeptic ulcer disease\u003c\/b\u003e — gastric ulcer and duodenal ulcer\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* \u003cb\u003eGastritis\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* \u003cb\u003eAcid reflux\u003c\/b\u003e with heartburn, foul breath, bitter taste in the mouth, indigestion\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* \u003cb\u003eGeneralized gastrointestinal (GI) disorders:\u003c\/b\u003e nausea, vomiting, indigestion, belching, bloating, epigastric fullness, and food sensitivities\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eBackground:\u003c\/b\u003e Gastrointestinal disorders such as gastritis, gastric reflux, gastric ulcer, and duodenal ulcer are common conditions caused by infection (\u003ci\u003eH. pylori\u003c\/i\u003e), lifestyle (stress, cigarette smoking, alcohol), diet (spicy and pungent food), and drugs (NSAIDs). These factors damage mucosa and disrupt its defense and repair functions, affecting the esophagus (GERD), stomach (gastritis, gastric ulcer), and duodenum (duodenal ulcer). Optimal treatment requires lifestyle changes, diet modifications, and medical intervention to treat infection and repair mucosal damage.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eTCM differentiation:\u003c\/b\u003e Gastrointestinal disorders are complex patterns characterized by both excess and deficiency — excess refers to Stomach heat (hyperacidity), and yin deficiency refers to damaged mucosa of the digestive tract. Causes may be external (infection, alcohol, smoking, drugs) or internal (stress). GI Care uses herbs to clear heat, regulate Liver qi circulation, strengthen the Stomach, and restore normal digestive functions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eKey herb-level clinical data:\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eHuang Lian\u003c\/b\u003e (Rhizoma Coptidis \/ Coptis \/ Goldthread \/ Berberine): inhibits secretion of gastric acid — blunts increase of MDA and hydroxyl ion (OH), decreases nitric oxide level and superoxide dismutase activity from gastric mucus; marked protective effect against gastric lesions and ulcerative formation induced by stress and alcohol; protects and treats gastric lesion induced by \u003ci\u003eH. pylori\u003c\/i\u003e LPS — inhibits epithelial cell apoptosis and suppresses gastric mucosal inflammation; antibiotic against \u003ci\u003eH. pylori\u003c\/i\u003e; combined with Di Yu — effectively treated 117 patients with acute GI bleeding; combined with Wu Zhu Yu — marked protective effect against aspirin-induced gastric mucus membrane damage\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eWu Zhu Yu\u003c\/b\u003e (Fructus Evodiae \/ Evodia): antiulcer — marked effectiveness in preventing and treating stomach ulcers by reducing gastric acid secretion; gastroprotective — protects stomach against gastric lesions by strengthening gastric mucosal lining and promoting nitric oxide synthesis in local gastric mucosa; combined with Huang Lian — protects against aspirin-induced gastric damage; directs Stomach qi downward to treat vomiting, nausea, and acid regurgitation\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eHai Piao Xiao\u003c\/b\u003e (Endoconcha Sepiae \/ Cuttlefish Bone): high content of calcium carbonate — effective antacid to neutralize gastric acid; antiulcer; neutralizes excessive stomach acid and eases heartburn\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eYan Hu Suo\u003c\/b\u003e (Rhizoma Corydalis \/ Corydalis): strong analgesic effect to relieve pain — analgesic potency comparable to morphine and codeine; antiulcer\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eHuang Qin\u003c\/b\u003e (Radix Scutellariae \/ Scutellaria Baicalensis): antibiotic against \u003ci\u003eH. pylori\u003c\/i\u003e; clears heat and eliminates toxins; clinical study — \u003ci\u003eH. pylori\u003c\/i\u003e infection treated with 75.9% rate of effectiveness using formula containing Huang Qin + Bai Hua She She Cao + others\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eBai Hua She She Cao\u003c\/b\u003e (Herba Hedyotis \/ Hedyotis \/ Oldenlandia): antibiotic against \u003ci\u003eH. pylori\u003c\/i\u003e; clears heat and eliminates toxins; 75.9% effectiveness formula ingredient\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003ePu Gong Ying\u003c\/b\u003e (Herba Taraxaci \/ Dandelion): antibiotic; clears heat and eliminates toxins\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eShen Qu\u003c\/b\u003e (Massa Fermentata \/ Medicated Leaven): contains multiple enzymes to facilitate digestion of starches and carbohydrates; aids digestion; protects stomach lining; \u003cb\u003econtains wheat — contraindicated in wheat allergy\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eWu Bei Zi\u003c\/b\u003e (Galla Chinensis \/ Chinese Gall \/ Gallnut): hemostatic — stops GI bleeding; provides coating for stomach; expedites recovery of peptic and duodenal ulcers; clinical study — 29 out of 33 patients (91%) had bleeding successfully stopped after one week\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eDi Yu\u003c\/b\u003e (Radix Sanguisorbae \/ Sanguisorba \/ Burnet Root): hemostatic — stops GI bleeding; provides coating for stomach; expedites recovery of ulcers; combined with Huang Lian — effectively treated 117 patients with acute GI bleeding\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eHuang Qi\u003c\/b\u003e (Radix Astragali \/ Astragalus): tonifies Spleen; augments qi; essential in rebuilding the gastrointestinal system\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eSha Ren\u003c\/b\u003e (Fructus Amomi \/ Amomum \/ Cardamom): promotes movement of qi; strengthens Stomach; treats abdominal distension, pain, nausea, and diarrhea\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eBai Shao\u003c\/b\u003e (Radix Paeoniae Alba \/ White Peony Root): neutralizes excessive stomach acid; eases heartburn; relieves abdominal pain\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eZhe Bei Mu\u003c\/b\u003e (Bulbus Fritillariae Thunbergii \/ Fritillaria Thunberg \/ Zhejiang Fritillary): neutralizes excessive stomach acid; eases heartburn\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eChai Hu\u003c\/b\u003e (Radix Bupleuri \/ Bupleurum): spreads constrained Liver qi; relieves abdominal pain and distension\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eXiang Fu\u003c\/b\u003e (Rhizoma Cyperi \/ Cyperus \/ Nut Grass): spreads constrained Liver qi; relieves abdominal pain and distension\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWESTERN THERAPEUTIC ACTIONS\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* \u003cb\u003eAntiulcer \/ gastric acid suppression\u003c\/b\u003e — Huang Lian (gastric acid secretion↓, MDA↓, OH↓, NO↓, SOD↓); Wu Zhu Yu (gastric acid secretion↓, mucosal lining↑, NO synthesis↑); Hai Piao Xiao (calcium carbonate, antacid); Yan Hu Suo (analgesic, antiulcer)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* \u003cb\u003eAntibiotic against H. pylori\u003c\/b\u003e — Huang Lian (H. pylori LPS protection, epithelial apoptosis↓, mucosal inflammation↓); Huang Qin + Bai Hua She She Cao (75.9% effective, clinical study); Pu Gong Ying\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* \u003cb\u003eAnalgesic\u003c\/b\u003e — Yan Hu Suo (morphine\/codeine-comparable potency)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* \u003cb\u003eHemostatic \/ gastroprotective\u003c\/b\u003e — Wu Bei Zi (91% \/ 29 of 33 patients, GI bleeding); Di Yu + Huang Lian (117 acute GI bleeding patients); Shen Qu (digestive enzymes, starch\/carbohydrate digestion); Wu Zhu Yu + Huang Lian (aspirin-induced gastric damage protection)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eCHINESE THERAPEUTIC ACTIONS\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* Quells Stomach fire; drains fire from Stomach and Liver (Huang Lian)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* Directs Stomach qi downward; treats vomiting, nausea, acid regurgitation (Wu Zhu Yu)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* Neutralizes excessive stomach acid; eases heartburn (Hai Piao Xiao, Bai Shao, Zhe Bei Mu)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* Clears heat; eliminates toxins; antibiotic (Huang Qin, Bai Hua She She Cao, Pu Gong Ying)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* Spreads constrained Liver qi; relieves abdominal pain and distension (Chai Hu, Xiang Fu)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* Strengthens Spleen; tonifies middle \u003ci\u003ejiao\u003c\/i\u003e; rebuilds GI system (Huang Qi, Sha Ren)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* Stops bleeding; coats stomach; expedites ulcer recovery (Di Yu, Wu Bei Zi)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* Aids digestion; protects stomach lining (Shen Qu)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eDOSAGE\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eStandard:\u003c\/b\u003e 4 capsules three times daily on an empty stomach, 1–2 hours before meals. For maximum effect, lie down for 10 minutes following ingestion.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eSupplementary formulas:\u003c\/b\u003e Stress-related stomach problems, irritability, nervousness, anxiety — add Calm or Calm (ES). Restlessness, stress, insomnia with underlying deficiency — add Calm ZZZ. Bleeding — add Notoginseng 9. Severe pain — add Herbal ANG. Gallbladder disorders (cholecystitis, gallstones) — combine with Dissolve (GS). Hepatic disorders (hepatitis, liver cirrhosis) — combine with Liver DTX. Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) — use GI Harmony instead. Ulcerative colitis — use GI Care (UC) instead. Tonify constitution and nourish blood — combine with Schisandra ZZZ or Imperial Tonic. Constipation — combine with Gentle Lax (Excess) or Gentle Lax (Deficient). Hemorrhoids — add GI Care (HMR). Nausea, vomiting, poor appetite from chemotherapy — use C\/R Support instead. Excess appetite, obesity — combine with Herbalite. Excess fire — add Gardenia Complex. Excessive damp\/phlegm — add Pinellia Complex. Bacterial infection in digestive tract — add Herbal ABX. Viral infection in digestive tract — add Herbal AVR.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eNutrition:\u003c\/b\u003e Drink a large amount of water at the first sign of heartburn. Plan regular meals and chew slowly and thoroughly. Increase nourishing, cooling foods: Mexican yam, yam, radishes, potatoes, carrots, melons, cucumbers, beets, turnips, malanga, celeriac, taro, and rutabaga. Increase papayas and pineapples (contain bromelain, a digestive enzyme). Acidophilus is helpful for digestion. Avoid lentils, peanuts, and soybeans (contain enzyme inhibitors). Avoid spicy\/pungent\/aromatic vegetables: pepper, garlic, onions, basil, rosemary, cumin, fennel, anise, leeks, chives, scallions, thyme, saffron, wormwood, mustard, chili pepper, and wasabi. Avoid fried, spicy, or greasy foods, refined sugar, tea, coffee, caffeine, salt, chocolate, strong spices, and carbonated drinks. Avoid sour and acidic foods and fruits. Avoid alcohol and caffeine — both increase stomach acid and interfere with ulcer treatment.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eTao of Nutrition — Peptic Ulcers (Dr. Maoshing Ni and Cathy McNease):\u003c\/b\u003e Eat potatoes, honey, cabbage, ginger, figs, papayas, squid bone, peanut oil, kale, and persimmons. Drink fig juice. Drink potato juice daily on an empty stomach for at least 2 weeks. Drink warm kale juice or cabbage juice on an empty stomach to help heal the ulcer. Take 2 teaspoons of peanut oil every morning on an empty stomach to help close the wound. Take 2 tablespoons of steamed honey on an empty stomach in the mornings. Cook ginger (thumb-sized amount) with rice for breakfast on an empty stomach. Dry and charcoal persimmon, grind into powder, take 1 tablespoon in warm water. Avoid spicy foods, hot foods, stimulants, shellfish, coffee, smoking, alcohol, fried foods, and stress.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eLifestyle:\u003c\/b\u003e Avoid alcohol completely. Stop smoking and avoid secondhand smoke. Avoid stress — do not eat when angry, overly tired, or stressed; always chew food thoroughly. Avoid NSAIDs (aspirin, Motrin\/ibuprofen, Naprosyn\/naproxen) — very damaging to the stomach. Do not rely on antacids excessively — they suppress symptoms but do not treat the cause. Control oral infections, emotional disturbances, and diet triggers for gastritis. Keep the digestive tract warm — use a hot compress or hot water bottle on the stomach whenever possible.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eCASE STUDIES\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003e50-year-old female:\u003c\/b\u003e Persistent proctitis for 2 years; superficial wiry pulse. GI Care + Astringent Complex (50:50). Result after 3 bottles: symptoms disappeared; 4 months later symptoms never returned and medical tests came back negative.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eW.M., 54-year-old female:\u003c\/b\u003e Stomach aches and pains with IBS-type symptoms; pain after eating, worse with cold\/sweet foods; high stress; Stomach qi deficiency and cold, Kidney yang deficiency, developing ulcer. GI Care 4 caps 3x daily + dietary recommendations. Result at 1 month: only occasional discomfort from over-indulging. Continued at smaller dose for another month.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003e54-year-old female clerk:\u003c\/b\u003e Belching, esophageal reflux, acid regurgitation; nighttime cough with thick sticky phlegm; vomiting; prescribed Prilosec (omeprazole) but preferred not to take pharmaceuticals. GI Care 4 caps daily. Result at 2 weeks: able to stop Prilosec; no acid reflux, slept well, no phlegm or mucus. Still doing well 4 months later.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eT.T., 48-year-old female:\u003c\/b\u003e Bloating, burping, upper and lower quadrant discomfort; wiry pulse, swollen dusky tongue; Liver qi stagnation with Spleen and Kidney yang deficiencies; Western diagnosis GERD. GI Care. Result: more effective than OTC antacids she had previously tried.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eA.F., 35-year-old female:\u003c\/b\u003e Poor appetite, fatigue, weight loss, diarrhea, rectal bleeding; thin thready pulse, geographic red tongue with no coating; Liver and Kidney yin deficiencies with damp-heat in lower \u003ci\u003ejiao\u003c\/i\u003e; Western diagnosis Crohn's disease. GI Care. Result at 1 week: diarrhea improved. Result at 5 weeks: diarrhea normalized; fatigue improved.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eR.S., 62-year-old female:\u003c\/b\u003e Chronic heartburn most of adult life; hepatitis C history; Liver qi stagnation with Stomach fire; acid reflux. GI Care 3 caps 3x daily + diet change. Result: heartburn kept away 80% of the time.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eJ.R., 17-year-old female:\u003c\/b\u003e Nausea, epigastric fullness, dull abdominal pain, intermittent abdominal pain, alternating diarrhea and constipation; Liver qi stagnation with Stomach fire rising. GI Care + 3 acupuncture treatments. Result at 1 month: abdominal pain minimal with increased periods of relief; nausea resolved; bowel movements normalized. (Note: patient improved even with occasional non-compliance.)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003e45-year-old female:\u003c\/b\u003e Stomach sensitivity worsening with stress; acid reflux; Liver qi stagnation with heat. GI Care. Result: free of stomach pain for 2 years; described as \"a gentle formula.\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eRelated Reading\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlso see: \u003ca href=\"\/products\/gi-harmony\"\u003eGI Harmony\u003c\/a\u003e – for irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) | \u003ca href=\"\/products\/gi-care-uc\"\u003eGI Care (UC)\u003c\/a\u003e – for ulcerative colitis | \u003ca href=\"\/products\/gi-care-hmr\"\u003eGI Care (HMR)\u003c\/a\u003e – for hemorrhoids | \u003ca href=\"\/products\/dissolve-gs\"\u003eDissolve (GS)\u003c\/a\u003e – for gallbladder disorders and gallstones | \u003ca href=\"\/products\/liver-dtx\"\u003eLiver DTX\u003c\/a\u003e – for hepatic disorders | \u003ca href=\"\/products\/notoginseng-9\"\u003eNotoginseng 9\u003c\/a\u003e – for GI bleeding | \u003ca href=\"\/products\/herbal-abx\"\u003eHerbal ABX\u003c\/a\u003e – for bacterial infection in the digestive tract | \u003ca href=\"\/products\/gardenia-complex\"\u003eGardenia Complex\u003c\/a\u003e – for excess fire | \u003ca href=\"\/products\/calm\"\u003eCalm\u003c\/a\u003e – for stress-related stomach problems | \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/digestive-health-gi-support\"\u003eDigestive Health \u0026amp; GI Support Collection\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Modern Herbal Formulas","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":53404911796335,"sku":null,"price":28.36,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0726\/8630\/5391\/files\/GIcare.jpg?v=1782427654"},{"product_id":"gi-care-ii-travelers-diarrhea-gastroenteritis-tcm","title":"GI Care II – TCM Herbal Formula for Traveler's Diarrhea, Gastroenteritis, Dysentery, Food Poisoning \u0026 GI Infection with Damp-Heat","description":"\u003ch1\u003eGI Care II™\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eTCM herbal formula for traveler's diarrhea, gastroenteritis, dysentery, food poisoning, and GI infection with damp-heat — antibiotic; antitoxic; gastroprotective; dispels damp-heat in the Intestines; binds Intestines and stops diarrhea; promotes digestion; relieves pain\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e⚠️ Contraindicated for diarrhea caused by deficiency and cold, Spleen qi deficiency, or Spleen and Kidney yang deficiencies. Contraindicated during pregnancy and nursing. Allergy warning: Shen Qu (Massa Fermentata) contains wheat — persons with wheat allergy should not take this product. Contains Dang Gui (Radix Angelicae Sinensis) — patients on anticoagulant or antiplatelet therapies such as Coumadin (warfarin) should use with caution or not at all. California Prop 65 warning: \"This product contains Da Huang (Radix et Rhizoma Rhei). Read and follow directions carefully. Do not use if you have or develop diarrhea, loose stools, or abdominal pain because Da Huang may worsen these conditions and be harmful to your health. Consult your physician if you have frequent diarrhea or if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medication, or have a medical condition.\" Diarrhea is a symptom, not a disease — if it persists after 1–2 weeks, have a stool sample examined microscopically.\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eCLINICAL APPLICATIONS\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* \u003cb\u003eGI infection and inflammation:\u003c\/b\u003e traveler's diarrhea, gastroenteritis, enteritis, dysentery, food poisoning, and other gastrointestinal disorders with diarrhea, foul-smelling stools with burning sensations of the anus, abdominal discomfort and pain, borborygmus, possibly nausea, vomiting, and a feeling of incomplete defecation (tenesmus)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* \u003cb\u003eGI disorders with damp-heat\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* \u003cb\u003eAll excess types of diarrhea\u003c\/b\u003e characterized by heat and dampness\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* \u003cb\u003eMonosodium glutamate (MSG) poisoning\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eBackground:\u003c\/b\u003e Traveler's diarrhea, dysentery, gastroenteritis, and enteritis are generally caused by invasion of foreign substances or micro-organisms that cause inflammation of the lining of the stomach, small intestine, and large intestine. Common causes include infection (bacteria, virus, or parasites), plant toxins (mushrooms), chemical toxins (heavy metals, MSG), and drugs (antibiotics, antihelminthics, cytotoxic agents, colchicine, digoxin, NSAIDs). Clinical manifestations include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain and discomfort, diarrhea with foul-smelling stools with burning sensations of the anus, and in some cases, presence of blood, mucus, WBC, or RBC in the stools.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eTCM differentiation:\u003c\/b\u003e These conditions are characterized by damp-heat in the Intestines, leading to pain, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, fever, urgency, tenesmus, burning sensation of the anus after defecation, and diarrhea with or without mucus or blood. GI Care II uses herbs to dispel damp-heat in the Intestines, promote digestion, relieve pain, and bind the Intestines to stop diarrhea.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eGI Care II vs. GI Care (UC):\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eGI Care II\u003c\/b\u003e is designed for active infection and inflammation of the intestines due to improper food intake — bacteria lodged in the intestines need to be purged out, so purgative herbs such as Da Huang (Radix et Rhizoma Rhei) are used.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eGI Care (UC)\u003c\/b\u003e is designed for chronic ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease without active infection — it contains herbs to generate new tissue and repair the normal flora of the intestines.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eClinical notes:\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— Take for at least \u003cb\u003e7 days\u003c\/b\u003e in cases of acute infection to completely expel pathogens.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— For colitis or traveler's diarrhea, continue for an additional 2–3 days after all symptoms subside to ensure all pathogenic factors are cleared and prevent development of chronic colitis. Follow with GI Tonic for 3–5 days to strengthen the Spleen.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eExcellent formula to carry while traveling\u003c\/b\u003e to prevent or treat traveler's diarrhea and other GI infections.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— Multiple antibiotic herbs are used for two reasons: (1) combining herbs increases antibiotic effect more than tenfold; (2) isolated use of single ingredients increases risk of bacterial and viral resistance and mutation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eKey herb-level clinical data:\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eHuang Lian\u003c\/b\u003e (Rhizoma Coptidis \/ Coptis \/ Goldthread \/ Berberine): individually or in formula — excellent clinical results treating over 1,000 patients with bacterial dysentery with marked effectiveness and low incidence of side effects; antibiotic effectiveness comparable to ampicillin, amoxicillin, methicillin, and cefotaxime; clears damp-heat in Intestines\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eHuang Qin\u003c\/b\u003e (Radix Scutellariae \/ Scutellaria Baicalensis): most potent antibiotic in formula — widest spectrum of antibiotic properties; effectiveness comparable to ampicillin, amoxicillin, methicillin, and cefotaxime; antipyretic; anti-inflammatory; clears damp-heat in Intestines\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eGe Gen\u003c\/b\u003e (Radix Puerariae Lobatae \/ Kudzu Root \/ Pueraria): raises yang qi of the Spleen to stop diarrhea; generates fluids to replenish water loss from diarrhea; relieves exterior — effective for intestinal flu and traveler's diarrhea; antispasmodic; antipyretic; anti-inflammatory\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eBai Shao\u003c\/b\u003e (Radix Paeoniae Alba \/ White Peony Root): antibiotic; antispasmodic — relieves intestinal spasms and cramps; works synergistically with Ge Gen + Gan Cao to relieve abdominal and intestinal pain, spasms, and tenesmus; clinical study — 241 out of 254 patients (94.8%) with intestinal spasms showed significant improvement within 3–6 days\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eGan Cao\u003c\/b\u003e (Radix et Rhizoma Glycyrrhizae \/ Licorice): antitoxin — treats poisoning from drug toxins (chloral hydrate, urethane, cocaine, picrotoxin, caffeine, pilocarpine, nicotine, barbiturates, mercury, lead), food toxins (tetrodotoxin, snake, mushrooms), and others (enterotoxin, herbicides, pesticides) via regulatory effect on endocrine and hepatic systems; analgesic; antispasmodic\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eSheng Jiang\u003c\/b\u003e (Rhizoma Zingiberis Recens \/ Fresh Ginger): one of the safest and most effective ways to relieve nausea and vomiting (multiple clinical studies); harmonizes middle \u003ci\u003ejiao\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eFu Ling\u003c\/b\u003e (Poria): antibiotic; antidiarrheal — clinical study: 93 infants with diarrhea treated 3x daily; complete recovery in 79 cases, improvement in 8 cases; strengthens Spleen\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eBai Zhu\u003c\/b\u003e (Rhizoma Atractylodis Macrocephalae \/ White Atractylodes): antidiarrheal — clinical study: 320 infants with diarrhea responded well to 3–4 grams of herbal powder containing Bai Zhu; strengthens Spleen\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eDa Huang\u003c\/b\u003e (Radix et Rhizoma Rhei \/ Rhubarb Root): purges damp-heat; dispels turbidity; removes bacteria causing infection; prevents retention of pathogenic factors in Intestines; treats diarrhea with blood — hemorrhagic necrotic enteritis patients report lessened pain and diminished blood in stool within 2–6 doses; \u003cb\u003esee Prop 65 warning above\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eWu Bei Zi\u003c\/b\u003e (Galla Chinensis \/ Chinese Gall \/ Gallnut): astringent — binds Intestines for relief of diarrhea; patches ulcerations to repair intestinal walls; hemostatic — over 90% effective in stopping GI bleeding in 33 patients within 9 days\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eChun Pi\u003c\/b\u003e (Cortex Ailanthi \/ Ailanthus Bark \/ Tree of Heaven): astringent — binds Intestines for relief of diarrhea; patches ulcerations to repair intestinal walls\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eHou Po\u003c\/b\u003e (Cortex Magnoliae Officinalis \/ Magnolia Bark): antibiotic; promotes movement of qi; eliminates stagnation, turbidity, bloating, and gas; dispels turbidity and removes bacteria\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eJie Geng\u003c\/b\u003e (Radix Platycodonis \/ Platycodon): raises qi of Lung and Large Intestine (\u003ci\u003ezang fu\u003c\/i\u003e relationship); treats diarrhea and tenesmus by lifting sunken qi\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eBai Zhi\u003c\/b\u003e (Radix Angelicae Dahuricae \/ Angelica Dahurica): dispels pus; ascending effect — assists Jie Geng in lifting sunken qi to treat diarrhea and tenesmus; antispasmodic\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eChuan Mu Xiang\u003c\/b\u003e (Radix Vladimiriae \/ Vladimiria): promotes movement of qi; eliminates stagnation, turbidity, bloating, and gas; dispels turbidity and removes bacteria\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eChen Pi\u003c\/b\u003e (Pericarpium Citri Reticulatae \/ Tangerine Peel): promotes qi movement; harmonizes middle \u003ci\u003ejiao\u003c\/i\u003e; relieves nausea and vomiting\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eQing Pi\u003c\/b\u003e (Pericarpium Citri Reticulatae Viride \/ Green Tangerine Peel): promotes qi movement; eliminates stagnation and bloating\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eZhi Qiao\u003c\/b\u003e (Fructus Aurantii \/ Bitter Orange): promotes qi movement; eliminates stagnation and bloating\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eGuang Huo Xiang\u003c\/b\u003e (Herba Pogostemonis \/ Patchouli): fragrant — wakes the Spleen; harmonizes middle \u003ci\u003ejiao\u003c\/i\u003e; dispels dampness; relieves vomiting and nausea\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eZi Su Ye\u003c\/b\u003e (Folium Perillae \/ Perilla Leaf): fragrant — wakes the Spleen; harmonizes middle \u003ci\u003ejiao\u003c\/i\u003e; dispels dampness; antipyretic; anti-inflammatory; relieves vomiting and nausea\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eRou Gui\u003c\/b\u003e (Cortex Cinnamomi \/ Cinnamon Bark): moderates heat-clearing effect to prevent damage to Spleen and Stomach\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eDang Gui\u003c\/b\u003e (Radix Angelicae Sinensis \/ Angelica Sinensis \/ Dong Quai): moderates heat-clearing effect; invigorates blood; \u003cb\u003ecaution with anticoagulants\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eDa Zao\u003c\/b\u003e (Fructus Jujubae \/ Jujube \/ Chinese Date): harmonizes middle \u003ci\u003ejiao\u003c\/i\u003e; relieves nausea and vomiting\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eShen Qu\u003c\/b\u003e (Massa Fermentata \/ Medicated Leaven): digestive enzymes for starches and carbohydrates; harmonizes middle \u003ci\u003ejiao\u003c\/i\u003e; \u003cb\u003econtains wheat — contraindicated in wheat allergy\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWESTERN THERAPEUTIC ACTIONS\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* \u003cb\u003eAntibiotic (broad-spectrum)\u003c\/b\u003e — Huang Lian + Huang Qin (comparable to ampicillin, amoxicillin, methicillin, cefotaxime; 1,000+ bacterial dysentery patients); Bai Shao; Hou Po; Fu Ling\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* \u003cb\u003eAntidiarrheal\u003c\/b\u003e — Fu Ling (93 infants, 79 complete recovery); Bai Zhu (320 infants); Ge Gen (raises Spleen yang, generates fluids); Chun Pi + Wu Bei Zi (astringent, intestinal wall repair)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* \u003cb\u003eAntispasmodic \/ analgesic\u003c\/b\u003e — Ge Gen + Bai Shao + Gan Cao (241\/254 patients, 94.8%, intestinal spasms, 3–6 days); Bai Zhi; Gan Cao\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* \u003cb\u003eAntiemetic\u003c\/b\u003e — Sheng Jiang (multiple clinical studies, safest and most effective for nausea\/vomiting)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* \u003cb\u003eAntipyretic \/ anti-inflammatory\u003c\/b\u003e — Ge Gen; Huang Qin; Zi Su Ye; Bai Shao\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* \u003cb\u003eAntitoxic\u003c\/b\u003e — Gan Cao (drug, food, and chemical poisoning via endocrine\/hepatic regulation)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* \u003cb\u003eHemostatic \/ gastroprotective\u003c\/b\u003e — Da Huang (hemorrhagic necrotic enteritis, blood in stool↓ within 2–6 doses); Wu Bei Zi (90%+ \/ 33 patients, GI bleeding stopped within 9 days)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eCHINESE THERAPEUTIC ACTIONS\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* Dispels damp-heat in the Intestines (Huang Lian, Huang Qin)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* Raises Spleen yang; stops diarrhea; generates fluids (Ge Gen)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* Binds Intestines; repairs intestinal walls (Chun Pi, Wu Bei Zi)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* Promotes qi movement; eliminates stagnation, turbidity, bloating, and gas (Chuan Mu Xiang, Hou Po, Chen Pi, Qing Pi, Zhi Qiao)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* Purges damp-heat; removes bacteria; prevents pathogen retention (Da Huang, Chuan Mu Xiang, Hou Po)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* Raises sunken qi; treats tenesmus (Jie Geng, Bai Zhi)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* Harmonizes middle \u003ci\u003ejiao\u003c\/i\u003e; relieves nausea and vomiting (Chen Pi, Sheng Jiang, Da Zao, Shen Qu, Guang Huo Xiang, Zi Su Ye)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* Strengthens Spleen; relieves diarrhea (Fu Ling, Bai Zhu)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* Moderates cold herbs; protects Spleen and Stomach (Rou Gui, Dang Gui)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eDOSAGE\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eStandard:\u003c\/b\u003e 3–4 capsules three times daily on an empty stomach with warm water. May increase to 6–8 capsules three times daily if necessary. Take for at least 7 days in acute infection to completely expel pathogens. For colitis or traveler's diarrhea, continue 2–3 days after symptoms subside; follow with GI Tonic for 3–5 days.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eSupplementary formulas:\u003c\/b\u003e Bacterial GI infection — add Herbal ABX. Viral GI infection — add Herbal AVR. More inflammation — add Astringent Complex. Fistula, diverticulitis, or pus-filled abscess with fever — use with Resolve (AI) and Astringent Complex. IBS with bloating and gas — use with GI Harmony. Stress — add Calm or Calm (ES). IBS with constipation — use GI Harmony and Gentle Lax (Deficient) instead. Intestinal and abdominal cramping and pain — use with Flex (SC). MSG poisoning — use with Herbal DTX. Ulcerative colitis — add GI Care (UC). Hemorrhoids — add GI Care (HMR). Excess heat — add Gardenia Complex. Dryness and thirst — add Nourish (Fluids). Bleeding — add Notoginseng 9.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eNutrition:\u003c\/b\u003e Keep taking plenty of pure water and appropriate foods to prevent dehydration and malnutrition. During recovery, eat easy-to-digest foods early in the meal: soup, porridge, cooked fruits and vegetables. Avoid foods that trigger diarrhea or are hard to digest: sorbitol, dairy products, spicy food, alcohol, and caffeine. Avoid raw, cold, or unsanitary food and beverages. Use a separate chopping board for raw foods to prevent contamination. Do not eat refined sugar during recovery, especially if diarrhea is caused by bacterial infection. Incorporate probiotics — take at least double or triple the normal recommended dosage while on herbs.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eTao of Nutrition — Diarrhea (Dr. Maoshing Ni and Cathy McNease):\u003c\/b\u003e Eat garlic, black pepper, blueberries, cinnamon, raspberry leaves, lotus seeds, burned rice, yams, sweet potatoes, fresh fig leaves, peas, buckwheat, litchi, guava peel, apple, charcoaled bread, ginger, pearl barley, basil, and unripe prunes. Cook rice porridge with lotus seed and yam or with barley. Cook rice porridge with ginger and black pepper. Eat burnt rice or bread. Take 2 tablespoons dried apples 3x daily on empty stomach with warm water. Drink black tea. Bake 2 bulbs of garlic until black, boil in water, drink the tea. Make tea from dried litchi and Chinese black dates. Make tea from guava peel. Make tea from ginger, fennel, basil, and Chinese black dates. Make tea from unripe prunes. Eat sweet rice porridge. Avoid cold, raw foods, most fruits, juices, and overeating.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eLifestyle:\u003c\/b\u003e Wash hands prior to eating. Patients with intestinal disturbance from stress should engage in regular exercise, adequate rest, and normal sleep patterns — practice meditation exercises at least twice daily; do something enjoyable to relieve stress. Relax, rest, and drink plenty of water until the condition clears up.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eCASE STUDIES\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eM.K., 52-year-old female:\u003c\/b\u003e Traveler's diarrhea with hyperactive bowel sounds; monocytes 18 (normal \u0026lt;7), neutrophils 66% (high), lymphocytes 18% (low) — bacterial infection with possible parasitic component; damp-heat in Intestines. GI Care II 4 caps 3x daily on empty stomach. Result at 5 days: modified to 3 caps 3x daily to finish bottle; no longer experiencing intestinal problems.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eT.P., 6-year-old female:\u003c\/b\u003e Profuse diarrhea, cramping, and fever for 4 days while traveling in Mexico; damp-heat in Intestines. GI Care II 2 caps 3x daily. Result at day 2: fever subsided, stools and cramping improved. Continued for remainder of trip.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003e35-year-old male:\u003c\/b\u003e Severe abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting after eating sushi — food poisoning; damp-heat in Intestines. GI Care II 4 grams 3x daily. Result at 1 hour after first dose: much better, decreased abdominal pain. Result after second dose: all symptoms completely resolved.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eRelated Reading\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlso see: \u003ca href=\"\/products\/gi-care\"\u003eGI Care\u003c\/a\u003e – for acid reflux, gastric ulcer, and H. pylori | \u003ca href=\"\/products\/gi-care-uc\"\u003eGI Care (UC)\u003c\/a\u003e – for chronic ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease | \u003ca href=\"\/products\/gi-harmony\"\u003eGI Harmony\u003c\/a\u003e – for IBS with bloating, gas, or constipation | \u003ca href=\"\/products\/gi-care-hmr\"\u003eGI Care (HMR)\u003c\/a\u003e – for hemorrhoids | \u003ca href=\"\/products\/herbal-abx\"\u003eHerbal ABX\u003c\/a\u003e – for bacterial GI infection | \u003ca href=\"\/products\/herbal-avr\"\u003eHerbal AVR\u003c\/a\u003e – for viral GI infection | \u003ca href=\"\/products\/herbal-dtx\"\u003eHerbal DTX\u003c\/a\u003e – for MSG and chemical poisoning | \u003ca href=\"\/products\/astringent-complex\"\u003eAstringent Complex\u003c\/a\u003e – for more inflammation | \u003ca href=\"\/products\/gi-tonic\"\u003eGI Tonic\u003c\/a\u003e – to strengthen Spleen after recovery | \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/digestive-health-gi-support\"\u003eDigestive Health \u0026amp; GI Support Collection\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Modern Herbal Formulas","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":53406580179055,"sku":null,"price":28.36,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0726\/8630\/5391\/files\/GIcare2.jpg?v=1782499079"},{"product_id":"gi-care-hmr-hemorrhoid-relief-tcm-herbal-formula","title":"GI Care (HMR) – TCM Herbal Formula for Internal \u0026 External Hemorrhoids with Swelling, Inflammation, Rectal Bleeding \u0026 Constipation","description":"\u003ch1\u003eGI Care (HMR)™\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eTCM herbal formula for internal and external hemorrhoids with or without swelling, inflammation, or rectal bleeding — anti-inflammatory; hemostatic; mild laxative; clears damp-heat and toxic-heat from the Intestines; stops bleeding; regulates bowel movements\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e⚠️ Contraindicated during pregnancy. Contains Dang Gui (Radix Angelicae Sinensis) — patients on anticoagulant or antiplatelet therapies such as Coumadin (warfarin) should use with caution or not at all. Individuals with bleeding hemorrhoids should NOT take aspirin, Motrin\/Advil (ibuprofen), or Aleve (naproxen) — these drugs may cause more bleeding.\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eCLINICAL APPLICATIONS\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* \u003cb\u003eHemorrhoids:\u003c\/b\u003e internal or external, with or without swelling, inflammation, or bleeding\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eBackground:\u003c\/b\u003e Hemorrhoids are painful, swollen veins in the lower portion of the rectum or anus. They are usually asymptomatic but may cause pain while sitting, itching, and bleeding. Causes include straining during bowel movements, constipation, sitting for long periods of time, and certain diseases such as liver cirrhosis. In Western medicine, hemorrhoids are generally treated only with OTC stool softeners and soothing agents (temporary symptomatic relief), or in severe cases, invasive treatments such as injection sclerotherapy, rubber-band ligation, laser destruction, infrared photocoagulation, and surgical hemorrhoidectomy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eTCM differentiation:\u003c\/b\u003e Hemorrhoids are characterized by damp-heat and toxic-heat attacking the Intestines, leading to enlarged and protruding tissues in the rectum, constipation, and rectal bleeding. GI Care (HMR) clears damp-heat and toxic-heat, stops bleeding, tonifies blood, and regulates bowel movements simultaneously.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eKey herb-level clinical data:\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eHuang Qin\u003c\/b\u003e (Radix Scutellariae \/ Scutellaria Baicalensis): significant and potent anti-inflammatory — inhibits nitric oxide, COX-2, prostaglandin E2, and proinflammatory cytokines (MAP kinase signaling); clears damp-heat and toxic-heat from Intestines; clinical study — 400 patients with hemorrhoids treated with herbal decoction containing Huai Hua + Dang Gui + Huang Qin + others: 61% significant improvement, 31% moderate improvement, 8% no improvement\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eDi Yu \/ Di Yu Tan\u003c\/b\u003e (Radix Sanguisorbae \/ Radix Sanguisorbae Carbonisatum \/ Sanguisorba \/ Burnet Root): anti-inflammatory — significantly suppresses production of nitric oxide and prostaglandin from LPS-activated cells and peritoneal macrophages in a dose-dependent manner (NF-κB and AP-1 signaling suppression); hemostatic — reduces bleeding time by 31.9–45.5% when ingested orally; treats GI bleeding and hematochezia; clinical study — Wu Bei Zi + Di Yu formula: 84.3% effectiveness for hemorrhoids\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eHuai Hua Tan\u003c\/b\u003e (Flos Sophorae Carbonisatum \/ Sophora Flower Charcoal): hemostatic — reduces bleeding time by 31.9–45.5% when ingested orally; stops rectal bleeding; cools blood; 400-patient hemorrhoid study ingredient\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eHe Zi\u003c\/b\u003e (Fructus Chebulae \/ Terminalia Chebula \/ Chebulic Myrobalan): potent COX and 5-lipoxygenase dual inhibitor (chebulagic acid) — key enzymes in inflammation and carcinogenesis; astringent — reduces inflammation of swollen hemorrhoid tissues\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eWu Bei Zi\u003c\/b\u003e (Galla Chinensis \/ Chinese Gall \/ Gallnut): astringent — reduces inflammation of swollen hemorrhoid tissues; hemostatic; clinical study — Wu Bei Zi + Di Yu formula: 84.3% effectiveness for hemorrhoids\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eLian Qiao\u003c\/b\u003e (Fructus Forsythiae \/ Forsythia): anti-inflammatory; analgesic; antipruritic — inhibits substance P-induced itch-scratch response; relieves itching associated with hemorrhoids\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eDang Gui\u003c\/b\u003e (Radix Angelicae Sinensis \/ Angelica Sinensis \/ Dong Quai): anti-inflammatory — approximately 1.1× stronger than acetylsalicylic acid; analgesic — approximately 1.7× stronger than acetylsalicylic acid; mild to moderate laxative — increases intestinal peristalsis and promotes bowel movement; tonifies blood; replenishes blood lost through rectal bleeding; moves blood to treat blood clots around the anus; \u003cb\u003ecaution with anticoagulants\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eJin Yin Hua\u003c\/b\u003e (Flos Lonicerae Japonicae \/ Honeysuckle Flower): anti-inflammatory — decreases permeability of blood vessels, reduces swelling and inflammation; clears toxic-heat from Intestines\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eXian He Cao\u003c\/b\u003e (Herba Agrimoniae \/ Agrimony): hemostatic — stops rectal bleeding; treats GI bleeding and hematochezia; cools blood\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eChun Pi\u003c\/b\u003e (Cortex Ailanthi \/ Ailanthus Bark \/ Tree of Heaven): hemostatic — stops rectal bleeding; treats hematochezia; astringent; clears heat; cools blood\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003ePu Gong Ying\u003c\/b\u003e (Herba Taraxaci \/ Dandelion): clears damp-heat and toxic-heat from Intestines; anti-inflammatory\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eYu Li Ren\u003c\/b\u003e (Semen Pruni \/ Bush Cherry Seed \/ Prune Seed): mild to moderate laxative — moistens Intestines; increases intestinal peristalsis; promotes bowel movement; relieves constipation\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWESTERN THERAPEUTIC ACTIONS\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* \u003cb\u003eAnti-inflammatory\u003c\/b\u003e — Huang Qin (NO↓, COX-2↓, PGE2↓, MAP kinase); Di Yu (NO↓, PGE2↓, NF-κB↓, AP-1↓, dose-dependent); He Zi (COX + 5-LOX dual inhibitor, chebulagic acid); Jin Yin Hua (blood vessel permeability↓); Lian Qiao; Dang Gui (1.1× aspirin)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* \u003cb\u003eHemostatic\u003c\/b\u003e — Huai Hua Tan + Di Yu Tan (bleeding time↓ 31.9–45.5%); Chun Pi; Xian He Cao; Wu Bei Zi (84.3% \/ Wu Bei Zi + Di Yu formula); clinical study: 400 patients, 61% significant improvement (Huai Hua + Dang Gui + Huang Qin formula)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* \u003cb\u003eAnalgesic \/ antipruritic\u003c\/b\u003e — Dang Gui (1.7× aspirin); Lian Qiao (substance P itch-scratch response↓)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* \u003cb\u003eMild laxative\u003c\/b\u003e — Yu Li Ren (intestinal peristalsis↑); Dang Gui (intestinal peristalsis↑)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eCHINESE THERAPEUTIC ACTIONS\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* Clears damp-heat and toxic-heat from Intestines (Huang Qin, Jin Yin Hua, Lian Qiao, Pu Gong Ying)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* Cools blood; stops rectal bleeding (Huai Hua Tan, Di Yu Tan, Chun Pi, Xian He Cao)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* Astringent — reduces swollen hemorrhoid tissues; repairs intestinal walls (He Zi, Wu Bei Zi)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* Tonifies blood; replenishes blood lost through bleeding; moves blood to treat anal blood clots (Dang Gui)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* Moistens Intestines; relieves constipation; regulates bowel movements (Yu Li Ren, Dang Gui)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eDOSAGE\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eStandard:\u003c\/b\u003e 4 capsules three times daily on an empty stomach with warm water.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eSupplementary formulas:\u003c\/b\u003e Mild to moderate constipation — combine with Gentle Lax (Deficient). Moderate to severe constipation — combine with Gentle Lax (Excess). Severe and profuse bleeding — combine with Notoginseng 9. Hemorrhoids with extreme weakness and deficiency — use with Imperial Tonic. Blood deficiency — add Schisandra ZZZ. Ulcerative colitis — add GI Care (UC). Irritable bowel syndrome — add GI Harmony. Severe inflammation — combine with Astringent Complex.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eNutrition:\u003c\/b\u003e Eat foods high in fiber to ensure regular bowel movements — wheat bran, fresh fruits, and nearly all vegetables. A high-fiber diet is one of the most important factors for prevention and treatment of hemorrhoids. Ensure adequate vitamins and minerals for blood clotting and coagulation — especially vitamin B complex, vitamin C, vitamin K, and calcium. Increase water intake. Folk remedy: eat one fresh unpeeled cucumber (ends removed) each morning and evening. Folk remedy: eat 2–3 pieces of ripe banana with wild honey daily for 30–50 days. Avoid fats, animal products, coffee, alcohol, pepper, mustard, and spicy or pungent foods — harder to digest and more likely to irritate the digestive system; alcohol may worsen pain and cause further bleeding. Avoid warm and hot-natured foods that damage qi and yin: heat-producing fruits (mango, durian); stimulants (coffee, alcohol, energy drinks); spicy\/pungent\/aromatic vegetables (pepper, garlic, onions, basil, rosemary, cumin, fennel, anise, leeks, chives, scallions, thyme, saffron, wormwood, mustard, chili pepper, wasabi). Avoid artificial coloring. Minimize meat; avoid processed meats (lunch meats, hot dogs, sausages contain nitrites associated with inflammation).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eTao of Nutrition — Hemorrhoids (Dr. Maoshing Ni and Cathy McNease):\u003c\/b\u003e Eat sea cucumber, black fungus, water chestnut, buckwheat, tangerines, figs, plums, fish, prunes, guavas, bamboo shoots, mung beans, winter melon, black sesame seeds, persimmons, bananas, squash, cucumbers, taro, tofu, and cooling foods. Avoid stimulating foods, spicy foods, alcohol, smoking, constipation, stress, lack of exercise, and standing or sitting too long.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eLifestyle:\u003c\/b\u003e Maintain normal and soft bowel movements — straining worsens hemorrhoids. Empty bowels as soon as the urge occurs; bowel movements should take no more than 3–5 minutes; refrain from reading on the toilet. Avoid excessive wiping; use soft and moist toilet paper or baby wipes. Regular walking stimulates peristalsis and promotes normal bowel movements. Soak in a sitz bath with hot water for 20 minutes each night to focus blood circulation in the anal area — helps clear ballooned veins and disperse blood clots. Avoid prolonged sitting or standing — rest face down on a bed during flare-ups. Sit on soft cushions; avoid hard surfaces; when sitting for long periods, leave the seat for 5 minutes each hour or shift buttocks side to side to relieve rectal pressure. Exhale and do not hold breath when straining or lifting heavy objects.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eCASE STUDIES\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eB.R., 38-year-old female:\u003c\/b\u003e Acute hemorrhoid after constipation; itching and constant discomfort; first hemorrhoid occurred after childbirth 2 years prior; damp-heat. GI Care (HMR) 3 grams 2x daily. Result after 1 dose: hemorrhoid receded completely, all discomfort, itching, and swelling resolved. Took one more dose 12 hours later to solidify effect. Hemorrhoid did not return.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eA.R., 53-year-old male:\u003c\/b\u003e Constipation and hemorrhoids; slippery wiry pulse, scalloped tongue with dry center; prolonged sitting after shoulder surgery; Spleen qi deficiency with dampness and slight heat. GI Care (HMR) for 1 week. Result: normal bowel movement restored, no longer suffered from hemorrhoids.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003e65-year-old female:\u003c\/b\u003e 7–8 year history of constipation and occasional rectal bleeding; last 10 days: increasingly difficult stool passage with severe pain, straining, and bright red rectal bleeding; yellow greasy tongue coat, wiry fine pulse; damp-heat and toxic-heat in Intestines with qi and blood stagnation. GI Care (HMR) for 7 days. Result: complete recovery — normal bowel movement, absence of bleeding, resolution of hemorrhoids.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eA.R., 50-year-old male:\u003c\/b\u003e Hemorrhoids from sedentary lifestyle; Spleen qi deficiency with poor dietary habits; bowel movements only 2–3x per week; thin wiry pulse, thick sticky yellow tongue coating; Spleen qi deficiency with damp-heat obstruction in lower \u003ci\u003ejiao\u003c\/i\u003e. GI Care (HMR) for 2 weeks. Result: hemorrhoid greatly reduced in size, discomfort, and itching; minimal effect on bowel movements noted.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eB.K., 85-year-old female:\u003c\/b\u003e Hemorrhoids with itching and distending pain; irregular pulse, thick turbid tongue coating; Kidney qi deficiency with damp-heat accumulation in lower \u003ci\u003ejiao\u003c\/i\u003e. GI Care (HMR) + acupuncture + dietary recommendations. Result at 2 days: distending pain relieved, itching reduced.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eRelated Reading\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlso see: \u003ca href=\"\/products\/gi-care\"\u003eGI Care\u003c\/a\u003e – for acid reflux, gastric ulcer, and H. pylori | \u003ca href=\"\/products\/gi-care-ii\"\u003eGI Care II\u003c\/a\u003e – for traveler's diarrhea and GI infection | \u003ca href=\"\/products\/gi-care-uc\"\u003eGI Care (UC)\u003c\/a\u003e – for ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease | \u003ca href=\"\/products\/gi-harmony\"\u003eGI Harmony\u003c\/a\u003e – for irritable bowel syndrome | \u003ca href=\"\/products\/notoginseng-9\"\u003eNotoginseng 9\u003c\/a\u003e – for severe and profuse bleeding | \u003ca href=\"\/products\/gentle-lax-excess\"\u003eGentle Lax (Excess)\u003c\/a\u003e – for moderate to severe constipation | \u003ca href=\"\/products\/gentle-lax-deficient\"\u003eGentle Lax (Deficient)\u003c\/a\u003e – for mild to moderate constipation | \u003ca href=\"\/products\/astringent-complex\"\u003eAstringent Complex\u003c\/a\u003e – for severe inflammation | \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/digestive-health-gi-support\"\u003eDigestive Health \u0026amp; GI Support Collection\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Modern Herbal Formulas","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":53406596235375,"sku":null,"price":31.33,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0726\/8630\/5391\/files\/GICareHMR.jpg?v=1782500067"},{"product_id":"gi-dtx-bowel-cleanse-constipation-intestinal-detox-tcm","title":"GI DTX – TCM Herbal Formula for Bowel Cleansing, Constipation, Fecal Compaction, Intestinal Polyps \u0026 Colon Detox","description":"\u003ch1\u003eGI DTX™\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eTCM herbal formula for bowel cleansing, chronic constipation, fecal compaction, intestinal polyps, and colon detox — purgative; anti-inflammatory; antiproliferative; cytoprotective; clears toxic heat from the Intestines; strengthens and tonifies Spleen and Stomach\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e⚠️ Short-term use only — 7 days per course, no more than once every other month. Contraindicated during pregnancy, nursing, and menstruation. Contraindicated in individuals with weak body constitutions, children, and geriatric individuals. Large dosage or prolonged use is contraindicated. Contains Zhi He Shou Wu (Radix Polygoni Multiflori Praeparata) — do not use in patients with pre-existing or risk factors of liver disease. California Prop 65 warning: \"This product contains Da Huang (Radix et Rhizoma Rhei). Read and follow directions carefully. Do not use if you have or develop diarrhea, loose stools, or abdominal pain because Da Huang may worsen these conditions and be harmful to your health. Consult your physician if you have frequent diarrhea or if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medication, or have a medical condition.\"\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eCLINICAL APPLICATIONS\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* \u003cb\u003eBowel cleansing formula\u003c\/b\u003e — promotes intestinal health, especially for those with poor dietary habits resulting in accumulation of toxins in the colon\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* \u003cb\u003eAbdominal distension and rigidity\u003c\/b\u003e due to fecal compaction and constipation\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* \u003cb\u003ePolyps or inflammation in the colon\u003c\/b\u003e due to toxic build-up\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* \u003cb\u003eShort-term intestinal detoxification\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eBackground:\u003c\/b\u003e Constipation and fecal compaction are among the most common intestinal problems in developed countries. The most common and preventable cause is diet — refined sugar, white flour, chemical food additives, and preservatives lead to intestinal upset and constipation. When waste materials stay in the colon for extended periods, they become toxic through putrefaction and fermentation, and are absorbed into the blood and body. Slow intestinal peristalsis can allow the large intestine to retain 15 pounds or more of waste. Constipation leads to indigestion, skin problems, unexplained fatigue, and aches and pains. A healthy colon should produce 1–2 bowel movements per day. With colon cancer on the rise, maintaining colon health is an increasingly important preventative health measure.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eTCM differentiation:\u003c\/b\u003e Constipation and fecal impaction are characterized by toxic heat accumulation in the Intestines. GI DTX simultaneously purges toxic accumulation, reduces inflammation, prevents polyp formation, and rebuilds the intestines after cleansing — achieving the delicate balance of cleansing the intestines while protecting the digestive tract.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eClinical notes:\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— One round of cleansing = \u003cb\u003e7 days\u003c\/b\u003e. May be repeated every 6 months if necessary; no more than once every other month in severe cases.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— In the first 3 days, patients may notice passage of more than normal stool that may be foul-smelling. After day 3, passage should normalize with little smell.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— After completing the 7-day course, \u003cb\u003eincorporate probiotics\u003c\/b\u003e to replenish intestinal flora.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— Designed as short-term intestinal detoxification for long-term constipation and fecal compaction. For long-term benefit, dietary and lifestyle changes are essential to prevent recurrence.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eKey herb-level clinical data:\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eDa Huang\u003c\/b\u003e (Radix et Rhizoma Rhei \/ Rhubarb Root): strong purgative and laxative — contains sennoside A, aloe-emodin, and rhein, which directly stimulate the large intestine to increase contraction and peristalsis; anti-inflammatory — inhibits inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS); antiproliferative — broad spectrum antiproliferative, cytotoxicity, and anticancer effects (aloe-emodin: inhibits nasopharyngeal carcinoma invasion via p38 MAPK-NF-κB; induces apoptosis in hepatoma cells; inhibits gastric cancer cell growth; emodin: inhibits hepatoma cell growth); cytoprotective — protects human intestinal epithelial cells from damage by inhibiting cell apoptosis and necrosis; significant protective effect in artificially-induced ulcerative colitis; qi invigorating — increases peristalsis and enhances detoxifying effect; drains damp — helps eliminate toxins through urination; \u003cb\u003esee Prop 65 warning above\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eWu Wei Zi\u003c\/b\u003e (Fructus Schisandrae Chinensis \/ Schisandra \/ Five-Flavor Berry): anti-inflammatory — schisandrin inhibits NO production, PGE(2) release, COX-2, and iNOS expression; antiproliferative — benzocyclooctadiene lignans exert antiproliferative activity against human colorectal cancer cells; liver protection — prevents Da Huang from injuring yin; sour taste provides check and balance to prevent Da Huang from injuring qi\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eBai Jiang Cao\u003c\/b\u003e (Herba cum Radice Patriniae \/ Patrinia \/ Dahurian Patrinia): remarkable anti-inflammatory activity especially at colorectal sites — therapeutic value for ulcerative colitis and other inflammatory bowel disease (IBD); enters Large Intestine channel to enhance detoxifying effect of Da Huang; drains pus and abscesses to treat intestinal polyps\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eBai Hua She She Cao\u003c\/b\u003e (Herba Hedyotis \/ Hedyotis \/ Oldenlandia): strong antiproliferative — inhibits growth and induces apoptosis of abnormal cells; enters Large Intestine channel to enhance detoxifying effect; drains pus and abscesses to treat intestinal polyps\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eFeng Wei Cao\u003c\/b\u003e (Herba Pteris \/ Pteris Herb \/ Brake Fern): effectively reduces inflammation in the colon; enters Large Intestine channel to enhance detoxifying effect\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eShan Yao\u003c\/b\u003e (Rhizoma Dioscoreae \/ Chinese Yam \/ Dioscorea): moistens bowels to soften dry stools; stimulates intestinal peristalsis to facilitate stool passage; anti-inflammatory — antioxidant activities, phenolic compounds inhibit COX-2; tonifies Spleen and Stomach; prevents harsh heat-clearing herbs from injuring the digestive system\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eZhi He Shou Wu\u003c\/b\u003e (Radix Polygoni Multiflori Praeparata \/ Prepared Fo-Ti): moistens bowels; stimulates intestinal peristalsis; nourishes yin; tonifies blood; prepared form only — safe and well-tolerated (Maillard reaction processing with Hei Dou eliminates adverse reactions of unprepared root); do not use in patients with liver disease risk\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eFu Ling\u003c\/b\u003e (Poria): tonifies Spleen and Stomach; restores balance after toxins are purged; prevents harsh herbs from injuring the digestive system\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWESTERN THERAPEUTIC ACTIONS\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* \u003cb\u003ePurgative \/ laxative\u003c\/b\u003e — Da Huang (sennoside A + aloe-emodin + rhein, large intestine contraction↑, peristalsis↑); Shan Yao + Zhi He Shou Wu (bowel moistening, stool softening, peristalsis↑)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* \u003cb\u003eAnti-inflammatory\u003c\/b\u003e — Da Huang (iNOS↓); Bai Jiang Cao (colorectal sites, ulcerative colitis, IBD); Shan Yao (antioxidant, COX-2↓); Wu Wei Zi (NO↓, PGE2↓, COX-2↓, iNOS↓, schisandrin)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* \u003cb\u003eAntiproliferative \/ anticancer\u003c\/b\u003e — Wu Wei Zi (benzocyclooctadiene lignans, colorectal cancer cells↓); Bai Hua She She Cao (growth inhibition, apoptosis induction); Da Huang (aloe-emodin + emodin, broad spectrum: nasopharyngeal, hepatoma, gastric, colorectal)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* \u003cb\u003eCytoprotective\u003c\/b\u003e — Da Huang (intestinal epithelial cell protection, apoptosis↓, necrosis↓; ulcerative colitis protection)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* \u003cb\u003eLiver protection\u003c\/b\u003e — Wu Wei Zi (prevents Da Huang from injuring yin and qi)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eCHINESE THERAPEUTIC ACTIONS\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* Purges toxic accumulation downward; eliminates fecal compaction (Da Huang)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* Drains damp; eliminates toxins through urination (Da Huang)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* Clears toxic heat in the Intestines (Da Huang, Bai Jiang Cao, Bai Hua She She Cao, Feng Wei Cao)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* Drains pus and abscesses; treats intestinal polyps (Bai Jiang Cao, Bai Hua She She Cao)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* Reduces colon inflammation (Feng Wei Cao)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* Moistens bowels; softens dry stools; stimulates peristalsis (Shan Yao, Zhi He Shou Wu)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* Nourishes yin; tonifies blood; prevents Da Huang from injuring yin and qi (Wu Wei Zi, Zhi He Shou Wu)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* Tonifies Spleen and Stomach; restores digestive balance after cleansing (Shan Yao, Fu Ling)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eDOSAGE\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eStandard:\u003c\/b\u003e 3–4 capsules three times daily. May increase to 6–8 capsules three times daily. One course = 7 days. May be repeated every 6 months; no more than once every other month in severe cases. After completing the course, incorporate probiotics to replenish intestinal flora.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eSupplementary formulas:\u003c\/b\u003e Liver detox and support — add Liver DTX. Kidney detox and improved kidney function — add Kidney DTX. Heavy metals, chemicals, and other toxins — add Herbal DTX. Underlying qi deficiency — add GI Tonic. Underlying qi, blood, yin, and yang deficiencies — add Imperial Tonic.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eNutrition:\u003c\/b\u003e Increase fiber intake; avoid fast foods, processed foods, artificial sugars, and carbonated drinks. Allow 2–3 hours between the last meal and bedtime — the digestive system slows during sleep. Always eat breakfast — per the TCM clock, the most optimal time for the digestive system is 8:00–10:00 a.m. Drink warm or hot liquids with meals — cold or iced drinks hinder natural peristaltic movements. Chew food completely — larger pieces lead to incomplete digestion and discomfort. Incorporate fresh organic fruits, vegetables, and high-fiber whole grains. Drink at least 2 quarts of water daily. Avoid processed meats (lunch meats, hot dogs, sausages contain nitrites associated with inflammation). Avoid deep-fried or greasy foods.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eTao of Nutrition (Dr. Maoshing Ni and Cathy McNease):\u003c\/b\u003e Eat bananas, apples, walnuts, figs, spinach, peaches, pears, pine nuts, sesame seeds, mulberries, grapefruit, yams, honey, azuki beans, apricot kernel, milk, yogurt, alfalfa sprouts, beets, cabbage, bok choy, cauliflower, potato, Chinese cabbage, and salt water. Eat 2 bananas on an empty stomach followed by a glass of water. Drink a glass of lukewarm water with 2 teaspoons of honey on an empty stomach. Drink blended beets and cabbage on an empty stomach daily. Make beet soup. Eat 5–10 figs on an empty stomach followed by a glass of water. Eat a fresh apple on an empty stomach. Drink mulberry juice. Eat lightly steamed asparagus and cabbage at night before retiring. Drink a glass of lukewarm water with 2 teaspoons of salt on an empty stomach (last resort only — do not use with edema or hypertension). Avoid spicy foods, fried foods, and meat.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eLifestyle:\u003c\/b\u003e Eliminate unhealthy substances: alcohol, coffee, cigarettes, refined sugars, and saturated fats; and potentially toxic products: chemical-based household cleaners and personal hygiene products. Regular use of steam rooms or saunas helps eliminate toxins through sweating. Take a 30-minute walk after meals to stimulate the circulatory and digestive systems. Incorporate cardiovascular exercise. Do not postpone bowel movements — respond to the urge immediately.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eRelated Reading\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlso see: \u003ca href=\"\/products\/liver-dtx\"\u003eLiver DTX\u003c\/a\u003e – for liver detox and support | \u003ca href=\"\/products\/kidney-dtx\"\u003eKidney DTX\u003c\/a\u003e – for kidney detox and improved kidney function | \u003ca href=\"\/products\/herbal-dtx\"\u003eHerbal DTX\u003c\/a\u003e – for heavy metals, chemicals, and other toxins | \u003ca href=\"\/products\/gi-tonic\"\u003eGI Tonic\u003c\/a\u003e – for underlying qi deficiency after cleansing | \u003ca href=\"\/products\/imperial-tonic\"\u003eImperial Tonic\u003c\/a\u003e – for qi, blood, yin, and yang deficiencies | \u003ca href=\"\/products\/gi-care\"\u003eGI Care\u003c\/a\u003e – for acid reflux and gastric ulcer | \u003ca href=\"\/products\/gi-care-ii\"\u003eGI Care II\u003c\/a\u003e – for GI infection and traveler's diarrhea | \u003ca href=\"\/products\/gi-harmony\"\u003eGI Harmony\u003c\/a\u003e – for IBS | \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/digestive-health-gi-support\"\u003eDigestive Health \u0026amp; GI Support Collection\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Modern Herbal Formulas","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":53406623760495,"sku":null,"price":28.36,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0726\/8630\/5391\/files\/GIDTX.jpg?v=1782500866"},{"product_id":"gi-tonic-spleen-qi-deficiency-poor-appetite-loose-stools-tcm","title":"GI Tonic – TCM Herbal Formula for Spleen Qi Deficiency, Poor Appetite, Loose Stools, Diarrhea, Chronic Colitis \u0026 GI Weakness","description":"\u003ch1\u003eGI Tonic™\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eTCM herbal formula for Spleen qi deficiency with poor appetite, loose stools, diarrhea, bloating, fatigue, and gastrointestinal weakness — tonifies Spleen qi; stops diarrhea; promotes digestion; dispels dampness and stagnation; raises qi; prevents prolapse\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e⚠️ Contraindicated in cases of interior heat accumulation, exterior wind-cold, or exterior wind-heat. Do not use by itself for diarrhea due to damp-heat in the Intestines (burning sensations in the anus, tenesmus, foul-smelling stool) — this indicates infection and must be treated first with herbs that clear damp-heat. For diarrhea or dysentery due to GI infection, use GI Care II instead.\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eCLINICAL APPLICATIONS\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* \u003cb\u003eGeneral gastrointestinal deficiency and weakness:\u003c\/b\u003e fatigue, poor appetite, loose stools or diarrhea, anorexia, borborygmus, bloating, weight loss, sallow complexion, weak pulse, and scalloped tongue\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* \u003cb\u003eSpleen qi deficiency\u003c\/b\u003e causing various gastrointestinal disorders: diarrhea, superficial gastritis, and chronic colitis\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* \u003cb\u003eMalnutrition\u003c\/b\u003e in children or those with poor appetite and loose stools\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eBackground:\u003c\/b\u003e Fatigue is a general symptom caused by many underlying disorders — anemia, fibromyalgia, depression, stress and anxiety, chronic infection, and gastrointestinal and endocrine disorders. Though causes vary widely, they share one thing in common: compromised digestion and absorption of nutrients. As a result, the body becomes increasingly weaker and the patient feels chronically fatigued. The first step toward recovery is to restore gastrointestinal health so the patient can absorb nutrients from food and begin the healing process.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eTCM differentiation:\u003c\/b\u003e The main function of the Spleen is to extract qi from food and turn it into energy. When the Spleen and Stomach are deficient, they cannot carry out normal gastrointestinal functions — food may travel quickly out of the body without being digested or absorbed. A weak digestive system leads to low appetite; lack of nutrients leads to weak extremities, weight loss, and sallow facial appearance. Spleen deficiency causes accumulation of dampness, which obstructs qi flow and causes fullness in the chest. GI Tonic strengthens the Spleen, dispels dampness, and restores normal gastrointestinal functions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eKey herb-level clinical data:\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eRen Shen\u003c\/b\u003e (Radix et Rhizoma Ginseng \/ Ginseng): tonifies \u003ci\u003eyuan\u003c\/i\u003e (source) \u003ci\u003eqi\u003c\/i\u003e and Spleen qi — relieves weakness and fatigue; increases energy and vitality; adaptogenic — helps body adapt and cope with mental and physical stress; approved by Germany's Commission E for lack of stamina, declining performance, capacity for work, and concentration, and during convalescence; cognitive — improves memory and learning ability; alleviates mental fatigue during sustained cognitively demanding tasks; physical — stimulates pituitary gland to increase ACTH secretion → adrenal glands produce cortisol; subjects given Ren Shen showed 132–179% better physical performance in swimming; synergistic with Bai Zhu — both have adaptogenic effect and enhance each other; clinical study: 10 children with Spleen deficiency treated with Ren Shen decoction 2x daily for 7–14 days — all showed increased appetite, cessation of spontaneous perspiration, increased body weight, and improved facial complexion\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eZhi Huang Qi\u003c\/b\u003e (Radix Astragali Praeparata cum Melle \/ Honey-Prepared Astragalus): tonifies \u003ci\u003eyuan\u003c\/i\u003e qi and Spleen qi; relieves weakness and fatigue; increases energy and vitality; clinical study — Huang Qi administered for 1 month showed marked effect for treatment of peptic ulcer disease\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eBai Zhu\u003c\/b\u003e (Rhizoma Atractylodis Macrocephalae \/ White Atractylodes): dual GI regulating effect — at low doses stimulates stomach and intestines; at high doses inhibits; effective for both diarrhea and constipation; strengthens Spleen; dispels dampness; relieves diarrhea; increases appetite; synergistic with Ren Shen (adaptogenic); clinical study — 320 infants with diarrhea treated with Bai Zhu + Shan Yao with good results\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eFu Ling\u003c\/b\u003e (Poria): strengthens Spleen; dispels dampness; relieves diarrhea; increases appetite; clinical study — 93 infants with diarrhea treated 3x daily: complete recovery in 79 cases, improvement in 8 cases, no effect in 6 cases (93.4% effective rate)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eSha Ren\u003c\/b\u003e (Fructus Amomi \/ Amomum \/ Cardamom): dual GI regulating effect — at low doses stimulates; at high doses inhibits; aromatic — dries dampness; stops diarrhea; regulates qi; relieves bloating and borborygmus; clinical study — 43 patients with gastric or duodenal ulcer treated with Sha Ren powder: significant improvement in epigastric pain, abdominal distension, and acid reflux\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eShan Yao\u003c\/b\u003e (Rhizoma Dioscoreae \/ Chinese Yam \/ Dioscorea): tonifies qi and Spleen yin; slightly astringent — stabilizing and binding effect to relieve diarrhea and loose stools; clinical study — 320 infants with diarrhea treated with Bai Zhu + Shan Yao with good results\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eBian Dou\u003c\/b\u003e (Semen Lablab Album \/ White Hyacinth Bean \/ Lablab): tonifies qi and Spleen yin; slightly astringent — stabilizing and binding effect to relieve diarrhea and loose stools\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eLian Zi\u003c\/b\u003e (Semen Nelumbinis \/ Lotus Seed): tonifies qi and Spleen yin; slightly astringent — stabilizing and binding effect to relieve diarrhea and loose stools\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eYi Yi Ren\u003c\/b\u003e (Semen Coicis \/ Coix \/ Job's Tears): dispels dampness; promotes urination; expels excess fluid retention\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eJie Geng\u003c\/b\u003e (Radix Platycodonis \/ Platycodon): raises qi; prevents prolapse caused by diarrhea; gastroprotective — inhibits gastric acid secretion; beneficial for stomach and duodenal ulcers\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eGan Cao\u003c\/b\u003e (Radix et Rhizoma Glycyrrhizae \/ Licorice): harmonizes middle \u003ci\u003ejiao\u003c\/i\u003e and entire formula; gastroprotective — inhibits gastric acid secretion, binds and deactivates gastric acid, promotes recovery from ulceration; prevents and treats peptic ulcers\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWESTERN THERAPEUTIC ACTIONS\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* \u003cb\u003eGI regulating \/ antidiarrheal\u003c\/b\u003e — Bai Zhu + Sha Ren (dual dose-dependent effect: stimulating at low dose, inhibiting at high dose — effective for both diarrhea and constipation); Fu Ling (93.4% \/ 93 infants); Bai Zhu + Shan Yao (320 infants, good results); Shan Yao + Bian Dou + Lian Zi (astringent, binding)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* \u003cb\u003eAdaptogenic \/ energy \/ vitality\u003c\/b\u003e — Ren Shen (ACTH↑, cortisol↑, 132–179% physical performance↑, Commission E approved, cognitive improvement); Zhi Huang Qi (qi tonification, fatigue relief)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* \u003cb\u003eGastroprotective \/ antiulcer\u003c\/b\u003e — Gan Cao (gastric acid secretion↓, acid binding, ulcer recovery↑); Jie Geng (gastric acid secretion↓, stomach and duodenal ulcers); Zhi Huang Qi (peptic ulcer, 1-month treatment, marked effect); Sha Ren (43 patients, gastric\/duodenal ulcer, significant improvement)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* \u003cb\u003eClinical formula studies\u003c\/b\u003e — 95 patients with chronic diarrhea: 71.6% effective rate; 42 children with diarrhea due to Spleen deficiency: improvement in all cases; 32 patients with superficial gastritis\/peptic ulcer: 96.7% effective rate (complete recovery 46.8%, marked effect 28.1%, moderate effect 21.8%)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eCHINESE THERAPEUTIC ACTIONS\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* Tonifies Spleen qi and \u003ci\u003eyuan\u003c\/i\u003e qi; relieves weakness and fatigue (Ren Shen, Zhi Huang Qi)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* Strengthens Spleen; dispels dampness; relieves diarrhea; increases appetite (Bai Zhu, Fu Ling)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* Tonifies qi and Spleen yin; astringent binding — stops diarrhea and loose stools (Shan Yao, Bian Dou, Lian Zi)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* Dispels dampness; promotes urination; expels excess fluid (Yi Yi Ren)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* Aromatic — dries dampness; stops diarrhea; regulates qi; relieves bloating and borborygmus (Sha Ren)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* Raises qi; prevents prolapse from diarrhea (Jie Geng)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* Harmonizes middle \u003ci\u003ejiao\u003c\/i\u003e and formula (Gan Cao)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eDOSAGE\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eStandard:\u003c\/b\u003e 2–4 capsules three times daily on an empty stomach, 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals. Short-term use (1–2 weeks) for symptomatic diarrhea relief. Long-term use (3–6 months) to restore gastrointestinal health and change the constitution of the Spleen and Stomach.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eSupplementary formulas:\u003c\/b\u003e Early morning diarrhea with coldness — add Kidney Tonic (Yang). Constipation with IBS — add Gentle Lax (Deficient) and GI Harmony. Hemorrhoids — add GI Care (HMR). IBS with irritability and stress — add GI Harmony and Calm. Diarrhea or dysentery due to GI infection — use GI Care II instead. Inflammatory bowel or ulcerative colitis from damp-heat — use GI Care (UC) instead. Extreme fatigue and deficiency in qi, blood, yin, and yang — add Imperial Tonic. Immediate energy boost — add Vibrant. Depression — add Shine or Shine (DS). Hepatitis — add Liver DTX. Bleeding — add Notoginseng 9. Excess damp and phlegm — add Pinellia Complex.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eNutrition:\u003c\/b\u003e Eat a variety of fresh organic fruits and vegetables of all colors. Incorporate high-fiber whole grains and nuts. Drink warm or hot liquids with meals — cold or iced drinks hinder natural peristaltic movements. Eat antioxidant-rich foods (vitamins A, C, E): citrus fruits, carrots, green leafy vegetables, and green tea. Chew food completely — larger pieces lead to incomplete digestion and discomfort. Always eat breakfast — per the TCM clock, the most optimal time for the digestive system is 8:00–10:00 a.m. Allow 2–3 hours between the last meal and bedtime. Avoid food allergies and trigger foods. Avoid fast food, processed foods, junk food, artificial sugars, and carbonated drinks. Avoid meat, greasy food, alcohol, caffeine, dairy products (except unsweetened low-fat yogurt), tap water, iron supplements, and produce with pesticides.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eFoods that damage the Spleen — avoid:\u003c\/b\u003e All sugar-containing foods (cake, dessert, candy, chocolate, soda, canned juice, soft drinks, caffeinated drinks, stevia, sugar substitutes, agave, xylitol, corn syrup). Raw or uncooked meats (sashimi, sushi, steak tartar, seared meat). Cooling foods: tofu, tomato, celery, asparagus, bamboo, seaweed, kelp, bitter melon, cucumber, gourd, luffa, eggplant, winter melon, watermelon, honeydew, citrus, oranges, guava, grapefruit, pineapple, plums, pear, banana, papaya, white radish, mustard leaf, potherb mustard, Chinese kale, napa, and bamboo sprout — do not eat foods straight from the refrigerator; cooling property can be neutralized by cooking or adding 20 pieces of Gou Qi Zi (Fructus Lycii). White rice or bread (produce dampness). Seafood especially shellfish: crabs, oysters, scallops, clams, lobster, and shrimp (enter the \u003ci\u003eyangming\u003c\/i\u003e Stomach channel). Fermented foods (cheese, fermented tofu). Dairy products (milk, cream, cheese, ice cream). Lamb, beef, goose, or duck. Deep-fried or greasy foods. Warm and hot-natured foods that damage qi and yin: heat-producing fruits (mango, durian); stimulants (coffee, alcohol, energy drinks); spicy\/pungent\/aromatic vegetables (pepper, garlic, onions, basil, rosemary, cumin, fennel, anise, leeks, chives, scallions, thyme, saffron, wormwood, mustard, chili pepper, wasabi). Artificial coloring. Processed meats (lunch meats, hot dogs, sausages contain nitrites associated with inflammation).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eTao of Nutrition (Dr. Maoshing Ni and Cathy McNease):\u003c\/b\u003e Weak digestion — make a soupy porridge with cornmeal (especially good for recovery from flu or cold). Weak digestion and diarrhea — toast 2 tablespoons of quinoa until slightly brown, steep in hot water with 3 slices of ginger and a pinch of cardamom.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eLifestyle:\u003c\/b\u003e Maintain food sanitation to prevent further damage to the digestive system. Do not sit directly on wet cement or marble floors — prevents invasion of damp-cold. Maintain a positive outlook — worrying and thinking too much consume Spleen qi. Individuals with IBS and alternating constipation and diarrhea should stay away from stress as it may aggravate symptoms.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eCASE STUDIES\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eJ.S., 67-year-old female:\u003c\/b\u003e Gas, bloating, and diarrhea; Western tests ruled out internal abnormalities; Spleen qi deficiency; Western diagnosis IBS. GI Tonic. Result: excellent results symptomatically. Patient aware of trigger foods and avoids them. Continues to keep GI Tonic available, especially when traveling, in case of traveler's diarrhea.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003e25-year-old female:\u003c\/b\u003e Long-term history of digestive problems; indigestion and diarrhea whenever eating slightly unclean or spoiled food; poor appetite; skinny appearance; aversion to cold; Spleen and Stomach deficiencies. GI Tonic. Result at 1 week: began to improve. Continued for 1 month to strengthen underlying deficiencies.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eRelated Reading\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlso see: \u003ca href=\"\/products\/gi-care-ii\"\u003eGI Care II\u003c\/a\u003e – for diarrhea and dysentery due to GI infection | \u003ca href=\"\/products\/gi-care-uc\"\u003eGI Care (UC)\u003c\/a\u003e – for inflammatory bowel and ulcerative colitis from damp-heat | \u003ca href=\"\/products\/gi-harmony\"\u003eGI Harmony\u003c\/a\u003e – for IBS with bloating, gas, or constipation | \u003ca href=\"\/products\/gi-care-hmr\"\u003eGI Care (HMR)\u003c\/a\u003e – for hemorrhoids | \u003ca href=\"\/products\/gi-dtx\"\u003eGI DTX\u003c\/a\u003e – for bowel cleansing after GI Tonic course | \u003ca href=\"\/products\/kidney-tonic-yang\"\u003eKidney Tonic (Yang)\u003c\/a\u003e – for early morning diarrhea with coldness | \u003ca href=\"\/products\/imperial-tonic\"\u003eImperial Tonic\u003c\/a\u003e – for extreme fatigue and qi, blood, yin, and yang deficiencies | \u003ca href=\"\/products\/vibrant\"\u003eVibrant\u003c\/a\u003e – for immediate energy boost | \u003ca href=\"\/products\/liver-dtx\"\u003eLiver DTX\u003c\/a\u003e – for hepatitis | \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/digestive-health-gi-support\"\u003eDigestive Health \u0026amp; GI Support Collection\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Modern Herbal Formulas","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":53406642995311,"sku":null,"price":38.91,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0726\/8630\/5391\/files\/GITonic.jpg?v=1782501502"},{"product_id":"gentle-lax-deficient-chronic-constipation-tcm","title":"Gentle Lax (Deficient) – TCM Herbal Formula for Chronic, Habitual \u0026 Deficient-Type Constipation with Dry Hard Stools","description":"\u003ch1\u003eGentle Lax (Deficient)™\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eTCM herbal formula for chronic, habitual, and deficient-type constipation with dry hard stools — emollient; laxative; moistens intestines; unblocks bowels; drains heat; nourishes yin and blood. Suitable for postpartum, postsurgical, convalescing, and geriatric patients. Also effective for drug-induced constipation from opioids and antipsychotics.\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e⚠️ Contraindicated during pregnancy and nursing. Individuals with sensitive GI tracts should reduce dosage and take with food. Suspect a more serious etiology if constipation is accompanied by vomiting, blood in stools, weight loss, or distended tympanitic abdomen — refer to a physician. Contains Da Huang (Radix et Rhizoma Rhei) — California Prop 65 warning: \"This product contains Da Huang (Radix et Rhizoma Rhei). Read and follow directions carefully. Do not use if you have or develop diarrhea, loose stools, or abdominal pain because Da Huang may worsen these conditions and be harmful to your health. Consult your physician if you have frequent diarrhea or if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medication, or have a medical condition.\" Contains Dang Gui Wei (Extremitas Radix Angelicae Sinensis) — patients on anticoagulant or antiplatelet therapies such as Coumadin (warfarin) should use with caution or not at all. Prolonged use of Da Huang is not recommended — may increase risk of habitual constipation and fluid\/electrolyte imbalance. Note on Zhi He Shou Wu: this formula uses the prepared form (Zhi He Shou Wu \/ Radix Polygoni Multiflori Praeparata), which is a safe tonic herb — not the unprepared form (Sheng Shou Wu), which carries risk of nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and rare dose- and time-dependent reversible liver disorder. Due to medical risks and legal liabilities, exercise caution and do not use either form in patients with pre-existing or risk factors of liver disease.\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eCLINICAL APPLICATIONS\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* \u003cb\u003eConstipation\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* \u003cb\u003eChronic, habitual constipation\u003c\/b\u003e with dry, hard stool\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* \u003cb\u003eDeficient-type constipation\u003c\/b\u003e in postpartum, postsurgical, or convalescing individuals\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* \u003cb\u003eMild colon cleanser\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eBackground:\u003c\/b\u003e Constipation is the infrequent or incomplete passage of stools — usually dry and hard, difficult to pass even with straining, with two or fewer bowel movements per week and feelings of incomplete evacuation. Common causes include lack of exercise, insufficient water and fiber intake, stress, overuse of laxatives, and use of certain drugs (opioids, antipsychotics, antidepressants, anticholinergics). Deficient-type constipation is defined as chronic or habitual constipation, constipation in geriatric patients, or constipation in patients with red tongue, pale or sallow face, and general signs and symptoms of weakness.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eKey herb-level clinical data:\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eDa Huang\u003c\/b\u003e (Radix et Rhizoma Rhei \/ Rhubarb Root): direct laxative and purgative — quickly and powerfully treats constipation; works mainly on the transverse and descending colon by inhibiting re-absorption of water and causing evacuation of stool; increases peristalsis of the large intestine without interfering with nutrient absorption in the small intestine; \u003cb\u003esee California Prop 65 warning above\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eYu Li Ren\u003c\/b\u003e (Semen Pruni \/ Bush Cherry Seed \/ Prunus Japonica Seed): increases peristalsis; promotes bowel movement; moistens intestines; unblocks bowels\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eBai Zi Ren\u003c\/b\u003e (Semen Platycladi \/ Arborvitae Seed \/ Biota Seed): mild lubricant effect — lubricates bowel and relieves constipation; moistens intestines\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eZhi Shi\u003c\/b\u003e (Fructus Aurantii Immaturus \/ Immature Bitter Orange \/ Chih-shih): stimulates smooth muscle; increases intestinal peristalsis; dissipates stagnation; reduces distension and bloating\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eHou Po\u003c\/b\u003e (Cortex Magnoliae Officinalis \/ Magnolia Bark): dissipates stagnation; reduces distension and bloating; clinical study: 36 women — greatly reduced incidence of constipation and abdominal bloating following surgery\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eJue Ming Zi\u003c\/b\u003e (Semen Cassiae \/ Cassia Seed \/ Semen Cassiae Obtusifoliae): moistens intestines; facilitates passage of stools; clinical study: used as tea throughout the day — marked effect to relieve chronic constipation\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eKu Xing Ren\u003c\/b\u003e (Semen Armeniacae Amarum \/ Bitter Apricot Seed \/ Apricot Kernel): lubricates the Large Intestine; directs qi downward\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eTao Ren\u003c\/b\u003e (Semen Persicae \/ Peach Seed \/ Persica Seed): lubricates the Large Intestine; directs qi downward\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eXuan Shen\u003c\/b\u003e (Radix Scrophulariae \/ Scrophularia \/ Figwort Root): clears heat; cools the blood; nourishes yin\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eMai Dong\u003c\/b\u003e (Radix Ophiopogonis \/ Ophiopogon \/ Dwarf Lilyturf Root): clears heat; nourishes yin\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eBai Shao\u003c\/b\u003e (Radix Paeoniae Alba \/ White Peony Root): nourishes blood; relieves pain associated with constipation; clinical study: 60 patients with chronic habitual constipation treated with Bai Shao + Gan Cao and others — great success\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eDang Gui Wei\u003c\/b\u003e (Extremitas Radix Angelicae Sinensis \/ Angelica Sinensis Tail): enriches blood; gentle laxative — moistens desiccated intestines; \u003cb\u003ecaution with anticoagulants\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eZhi He Shou Wu\u003c\/b\u003e (Radix Polygoni Multiflori Praeparata \/ Prepared Fo-Ti \/ Prepared Polygonum): enriches blood; gentle laxative — moistens desiccated intestines; prepared form is safe and well-tolerated (Maillard reaction during processing significantly changes chemical composition, generates new compounds, alters sugars and 16 amino acids, reduces pH from 6.28 to 5.61 — eliminating adverse reactions of the unprepared form)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWESTERN THERAPEUTIC ACTIONS\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* \u003cb\u003eLaxative \/ purgative\u003c\/b\u003e — Da Huang (transverse and descending colon; water reabsorption↓; peristalsis↑ without interfering with small intestine absorption); Yu Li Ren (peristalsis↑); Zhi Shi (smooth muscle stimulation, peristalsis↑)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* \u003cb\u003eEmollient \/ lubricant\u003c\/b\u003e — Bai Zi Ren (mild bowel lubricant); Ku Xing Ren + Tao Ren (Large Intestine lubricant); Jue Ming Zi (intestinal moistening); Dang Gui Wei + Zhi He Shou Wu (moistens desiccated intestines)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* \u003cb\u003eAnti-bloating \/ antispasmodic\u003c\/b\u003e — Zhi Shi + Hou Po (stagnation↓, distension↓, bloating↓); Hou Po (post-surgical constipation and bloating in 36 women)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* \u003cb\u003eAnti-inflammatory (hemorrhoids)\u003c\/b\u003e — reduces inflammation associated with hemorrhoid-related chronic constipation\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eCHINESE THERAPEUTIC ACTIONS\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* Moistens the Intestines; unblocks the bowels (Yu Li Ren, Bai Zi Ren, Jue Ming Zi, Ku Xing Ren, Tao Ren, Dang Gui Wei, Zhi He Shou Wu)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* Dissipates stagnation; reduces distension and bloating (Zhi Shi, Hou Po)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* Clears heat; drains toxic heat from the Intestines (Da Huang, Xuan Shen, Mai Dong)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* Nourishes yin and blood; relieves pain (Xuan Shen, Mai Dong, Bai Shao, Dang Gui Wei, Zhi He Shou Wu)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* Directs qi downward (Ku Xing Ren, Tao Ren)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eDOSAGE\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eStandard:\u003c\/b\u003e 4 capsules three times daily on an empty stomach with warm water. For sensitive GI tracts: reduce to 2 capsules four or five times daily to avoid stomach discomfort. Use as needed; discontinue when desired effects are achieved.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eSupplementary formulas:\u003c\/b\u003e Excess-type constipation — use Gentle Lax (Excess). Colon detox — use GI DTX. Constipation due to stress — add Calm. Acid reflux or ulcers — use GI Care. Irritable bowel syndrome — use GI Harmony. Ulcerative colitis — use GI Care (UC). Hemorrhoids and pain — use GI Care (HMR) + Herbal ANG. To tonify blood — add Schisandra ZZZ. Constipation due to neurodegenerative disorders, Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, or stroke — use Neuro Plus. Excess fire — add Gardenia Complex. Rectal bleeding — add Notoginseng 9. Severe blood stagnation — add Circulation (SJ). Postpartum constipation with deficiency — add Imperial Tonic. Constipation with postpartum depression — add Shine.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eNutrition:\u003c\/b\u003e Eat plenty of high-fiber foods — fresh fruits, green leafy vegetables, cabbage, peas, sweet potatoes, and whole grains. Drink at least 8 glasses of water daily. Prunes or prune juice are very effective for mild constipation. Wild or raw honey with fresh grapefruit relieves dry stool. Black sesame with wild honey softens stool and facilitates bowel movement. Increase nourishing cooling roots: Mexican yam, yam, radishes, potatoes, carrots, melons, cucumbers, beets, turnips, malanga, celeriac, taro, rutabaga. Avoid deep-fried, fatty, and spicy foods. Avoid spicy\/pungent\/aromatic vegetables: pepper, garlic, onions, basil, rosemary, cumin, fennel, anise, leeks, chives, scallions, thyme, saffron, wormwood, mustard, chili pepper, wasabi.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eTao of Nutrition (Dr. Maoshing Ni and Cathy McNease):\u003c\/b\u003e Recommended foods: bananas, apples, walnuts, figs, spinach, peaches, pears, pine nuts, sesame seeds, mulberries, grapefruit, yams, honey, apricot kernel, milk, yogurt, alfalfa sprouts, beets, cabbage, bok choy, cauliflower, and potato. Eat 2 bananas on an empty stomach followed by a glass of water. Drink a glass of lukewarm water with 2 teaspoons of honey on an empty stomach. Drink blended beets and cabbage on an empty stomach. Eat 5–10 figs on an empty stomach followed by a glass of water. Eat a fresh apple on an empty stomach daily. Drink mulberry juice. Eat lightly steamed asparagus and cabbage at night before retiring. Avoid spicy foods, fried foods, and meat.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eLifestyle:\u003c\/b\u003e Avoid stress, anxiety, and tension. Exercise regularly to increase intestinal peristalsis — walking massages the intestines and regulates bowels. Do not suppress the urge to relieve the bowels — suppressing is one of the main causes of chronic constipation; empty bowels whenever there is a desire, especially in the morning when the digestive system is most active. Massage the abdomen clockwise along the directional flow of the large intestine. Patients with hemorrhoids should not lift anything heavy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eCASE STUDIES\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eJ.J., 49-year-old female:\u003c\/b\u003e Constipation and abdominal bloating since childhood (bowel movement every other day to every 3 days); cold sensation; on birth control pills for heavy bleeding; night sweats during sugar pill days or menses; BP 118\/72 mmHg, HR 75 bpm; yin deficiency and stagnation \/ chronic constipation. Gentle Lax (Deficient) 3 pills 3x daily + Balance (Heat) 3–5 caps at night (off birth control pills) + acupuncture 2x weekly. Result: regular daily bowel movements; bloating relieved; night sweats resolved.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003e32-year-old female:\u003c\/b\u003e Chronic constipation since early teens — bowel movements every 3–4 days; Spleen qi deficiency. Gentle Lax (Deficient). Result: daily regular bowel movements; no feeling of fullness. After 2 months: regular daily schedule maintained.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003e49-year-old female teacher:\u003c\/b\u003e Constipation and gas; bloating, low back pain, stress, anger, irritability, fatigue; IBS presentation; Liver qi stagnation. Previously treated with Xiao Yao San + Ma Zi Ren Wan with little success. Switched to Gentle Lax (Deficient) + GI Care. Result: chief complaints abated; stress level lessened.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eF.L., 53-year-old female:\u003c\/b\u003e Recent TIA; right-sided facial pulling and numbness; drooping facial muscles; partial facial flaccidity. Treated with Circulation 3 caps 3x daily — no recurring TIA episodes. Also had constipation with hard stools, abdominal pain, cramps, and bloating. Gentle Lax (Deficient) 4 caps 3x daily. Result: all GI symptoms resolved.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eJ.N., 68-year-old male:\u003c\/b\u003e Constipation and bloating; BP 176\/86 mmHg, HR 54 bpm; blood deficiency, dryness, and side effects of blood pressure medications. Gentle Lax (Deficient) 2g 3x daily + acupuncture. Result: daily bowel movements with less effort to pass stools.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eRelated Reading\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlso see: \u003ca href=\"\/products\/gentle-lax-excess\"\u003eGentle Lax (Excess)\u003c\/a\u003e – for excess-type constipation | \u003ca href=\"\/products\/gi-dtx\"\u003eGI DTX\u003c\/a\u003e – for colon detox | \u003ca href=\"\/products\/gi-care\"\u003eGI Care\u003c\/a\u003e – for acid reflux and stomach ulcers | \u003ca href=\"\/products\/gi-harmony\"\u003eGI Harmony\u003c\/a\u003e – for irritable bowel syndrome | \u003ca href=\"\/products\/gi-care-uc\"\u003eGI Care (UC)\u003c\/a\u003e – for ulcerative colitis | \u003ca href=\"\/products\/gi-care-hmr\"\u003eGI Care (HMR)\u003c\/a\u003e – for hemorrhoids | \u003ca href=\"\/products\/neuro-plus\"\u003eNeuro Plus\u003c\/a\u003e – for constipation with neurodegenerative disorders | \u003ca href=\"\/products\/gardenia-complex\"\u003eGardenia Complex\u003c\/a\u003e – for constipation with excess fire | \u003ca href=\"\/products\/notoginseng-9\"\u003eNotoginseng 9\u003c\/a\u003e – for rectal bleeding | \u003ca href=\"\/products\/imperial-tonic\"\u003eImperial Tonic\u003c\/a\u003e – for postpartum constipation with deficiency | \u003ca href=\"\/products\/calm\"\u003eCalm\u003c\/a\u003e – for constipation due to stress | \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/digestive-health-gi-support\"\u003eDigestive Health \u0026amp; GI Support Collection\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Modern Herbal Formulas","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":53409954824303,"sku":null,"price":31.2,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0726\/8630\/5391\/files\/GentleLaxDeficient.jpg?v=1782603295"},{"product_id":"gentle-lax-excess-acute-severe-constipation-tcm","title":"Gentle Lax (Excess) – TCM Herbal Formula for Acute, Excess-Type \u0026 Severe Constipation with Abdominal Distension","description":"\u003ch1\u003eGentle Lax (Excess)™\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eTCM herbal formula for acute and excess-type constipation with red tongue, yellow tongue coat, and red face; food stagnation and indigestion with abdominal distension and pain — strong laxative; purgative; osmotic; emollient; increases intestinal peristalsis; purges accumulation of stagnant heat; disperses lower abdominal distension and pain. Also effective for drug-induced constipation from opioids and antipsychotics.\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e⚠️ Strong formula — reserve for severe constipation. Stop taking when desired effect is achieved. Do not use at large dosage or for prolonged periods — may cause diarrhea and dehydration. Contraindicated during pregnancy and nursing. Patients with intestinal obstruction should be referred to a physician immediately — surgical intervention may be necessary. Patients with hemorrhoids: use only to relieve constipation — if more bleeding occurs, stop immediately and switch to Notoginseng 9. Suspect a more serious etiology if constipation is accompanied by vomiting, blood in stools, weight loss, or distended tympanitic abdomen — refer to a physician. May be irritating to intestinal mucosa — start with lower dosage or take with food. Prolonged use of Da Huang is not recommended — may increase risk of habitual constipation and fluid\/electrolyte imbalance. California Prop 65 warning: \"This product contains Da Huang (Radix et Rhizoma Rhei) and Fan Xie Ye (Folium Sennae). Read and follow directions carefully. Do not use if you have or develop diarrhea, loose stools, or abdominal pain because Da Huang (Radix et Rhizoma Rhei) and Fan Xie Ye (Folium Sennae) may worsen these conditions and be harmful to your health. Consult your physician if you have frequent diarrhea or if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medication, or have a medical condition.\"\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eCLINICAL APPLICATIONS\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* \u003cb\u003eConstipation\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* \u003cb\u003eExcess-type constipation\u003c\/b\u003e with red tongue, yellow tongue coat, and red face\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* \u003cb\u003eFood stagnation or indigestion\u003c\/b\u003e with abdominal distension and pain\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eBackground:\u003c\/b\u003e Constipation is the infrequent or incomplete passage of stools — usually dry and hard, difficult to pass even with straining, with two or fewer bowel movements per week and feelings of incomplete evacuation. Common causes include lack of exercise, insufficient water and fiber intake, stress, overuse of laxatives, and use of certain drugs (opioids, antipsychotics, antidepressants, anticholinergics). Excess-type constipation is defined as acute and severe constipation, constipation in young adults, constipation with abdominal distension or pain, or constipation in patients with a red tongue, red face, and yellow tongue coat.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eKey herb-level clinical data:\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eDa Huang\u003c\/b\u003e (Radix et Rhizoma Rhei \/ Rhubarb Root): strong purgative — clears heat and detoxifies; works mainly on the transverse and descending colon by inhibiting re-absorption of water and causing evacuation of stool; increases peristalsis of the large intestine without interfering with nutrient absorption in the small intestine; synergistic \"push\" effect with Mang Xiao; clinical study: 72 patients with constipation from hospitalization — great success; clinical study: 44 patients with intestinal obstruction treated with Da Huang + Feng Mi (Mel) — 97.7% effectiveness; \u003cb\u003esee California Prop 65 warning above\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eMang Xiao\u003c\/b\u003e (Natrii Sulfas \/ Mirabilite \/ Sodium Sulfate): osmotic agent — increases water content and pressure in the intestines, inducing peristalsis and bowel movement; works best when taken with plenty of fluids; synergistic \"pull\" effect with Da Huang — together they have a powerful and reliable effect to treat all types of acute and\/or severe constipation\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eFan Xie Ye\u003c\/b\u003e (Folium Sennae \/ Senna Leaf): stimulant effect on the large intestine — increases contraction and peristalsis; clinical study: 276 post-surgical patients — 95.6% effectiveness; \u003cb\u003esee California Prop 65 warning above\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eZhi Shi\u003c\/b\u003e (Fructus Aurantii Immaturus \/ Immature Bitter Orange): stimulant effect on the large intestine — increases contraction and peristalsis; dissipates stagnation; reduces distension and abdominal pain\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eHou Po\u003c\/b\u003e (Cortex Magnoliae Officinalis \/ Magnolia Bark): excitatory effect on smooth muscles of the GI tract — promotes strong, forceful, and rhythmic peristalsis; dissipates stagnation; reduces distension\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eBai Shao\u003c\/b\u003e (Radix Paeoniae Alba \/ White Peony Root): nourishes blood; relieves abdominal and intestinal pain associated with constipation; clinical study: 60 patients with chronic habitual constipation treated with Bai Shao + Gan Cao and others — great success\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eTao Ren\u003c\/b\u003e (Semen Persicae \/ Peach Seed): emollient — lubricates the Large Intestine; facilitates passage of stool\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWESTERN THERAPEUTIC ACTIONS\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* \u003cb\u003eStrong laxative \/ purgative\u003c\/b\u003e — Da Huang (transverse and descending colon; water reabsorption↓; peristalsis↑ without interfering with small intestine absorption); Da Huang + Mang Xiao (synergistic \"push and pull\" — 72 patients hospitalization constipation)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* \u003cb\u003eOsmotic\u003c\/b\u003e — Mang Xiao (water content and pressure↑ in intestines; peristalsis↑; bowel movement↑; take with plenty of fluids)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* \u003cb\u003eStimulant laxative\u003c\/b\u003e — Fan Xie Ye (large intestine contraction↑, peristalsis↑; 276 post-surgical patients: 95.6% effective); Zhi Shi (smooth muscle stimulation, peristalsis↑)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* \u003cb\u003eEmollient \/ lubricant\u003c\/b\u003e — Tao Ren (Large Intestine lubricant); Hou Po (strong forceful rhythmic peristalsis)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* \u003cb\u003eAnalgesic \/ anti-bloating\u003c\/b\u003e — Bai Shao (abdominal and intestinal pain relief); Zhi Shi + Hou Po (stagnation↓, distension↓)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eCHINESE THERAPEUTIC ACTIONS\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* Relieves constipation; purges accumulation of stagnant heat (Da Huang, Mang Xiao, Fan Xie Ye)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* Disperses lower abdominal distension and pain (Zhi Shi, Hou Po, Bai Shao)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* Lubricates the Large Intestine; facilitates passage of stool (Tao Ren)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* Nourishes blood; relieves intestinal pain (Bai Shao)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eDOSAGE\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eStandard:\u003c\/b\u003e 3–4 capsules three times daily with warm water. For sensitive GI tracts: take with meals, or start at 2 capsules four times daily and adjust as needed. Stop when desired effect is achieved — do not use long-term. Take Da Huang-containing formulas with meals to avoid stomach irritation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eNote on long-term laxative use:\u003c\/b\u003e Prolonged use of laxatives wipes out normal intestinal flora and leads to frequent constipation and\/or secondary infections. If purgatives must be used for a prolonged period, also use acidophilus to replenish \"good\" intestinal flora.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eSupplementary formulas:\u003c\/b\u003e Deficient-type constipation — use Gentle Lax (Deficient). Colon detox — use GI DTX. Constipation due to stress — add Calm. Acid reflux or ulcers — use GI Care. Irritable bowel syndrome — use GI Harmony. Ulcerative colitis — use GI Care (UC). Hemorrhoids and pain — use GI Care (HMR) + Herbal ANG. Hemorrhoid bleeding — use GI Care (HMR) + Notoginseng 9. Hypertension — add Gastrodia Complex. Detoxification — add Liver DTX. Constipation due to neurodegenerative disorders (Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, stroke) — use Neuro Plus. Excess fire — add Gardenia Complex. Severe blood stagnation — add Circulation (SJ). Acne — add Dermatrol (Clear).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eNutrition:\u003c\/b\u003e Eat plenty of high-fiber foods — fresh fruits, green leafy vegetables, cabbage, peas, sweet potatoes, and whole grains. Drink at least 8 glasses of water daily. Honey with grapefruit relieves dry stool. Prunes or prune juice regulate bowels and relieve mild constipation. Increase nourishing cooling roots: Mexican yam, yam, radishes, potatoes, carrots, melons, cucumbers, beets, turnips, malanga, celeriac, taro, rutabaga. Avoid deep-fried, fatty, and spicy foods. Avoid spicy\/pungent\/aromatic vegetables: pepper, garlic, onions, basil, rosemary, cumin, fennel, anise, leeks, chives, scallions, thyme, saffron, wormwood, mustard, chili pepper, wasabi.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eTao of Nutrition (Dr. Maoshing Ni and Cathy McNease):\u003c\/b\u003e Recommended foods: bananas, apples, walnuts, figs, spinach, peaches, pears, pine nuts, sesame seeds, mulberries, grapefruit, yams, honey, apricot kernel, milk, yogurt, alfalfa sprouts, beets, cabbage, bok choy, cauliflower, and potato. Eat 2 bananas on an empty stomach followed by a glass of water. Drink a glass of lukewarm water with 2 teaspoons of honey on an empty stomach. Drink blended beets and cabbage on an empty stomach. Eat 5–10 figs on an empty stomach followed by a glass of water. Eat a fresh apple on an empty stomach daily. Drink mulberry juice. Eat lightly steamed asparagus and cabbage at night before retiring. Avoid spicy foods, fried foods, and meat.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eLifestyle:\u003c\/b\u003e Avoid stress, anxiety, and tension. Exercise regularly to increase intestinal peristalsis — walking massages the intestines and regulates bowels. Do not suppress the urge to relieve the bowels — suppressing is one of the main causes of chronic constipation; empty bowels whenever there is a desire, especially in the morning when the digestive system is most active. Massage the abdomen clockwise along the directional flow of the large intestine. Patients with hemorrhoids should not lift anything heavy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eCASE STUDIES\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003e63-year-old retired male:\u003c\/b\u003e Lower abdominal pain, abdominal swelling, foul-smelling flatulence, and constipation for almost 3 days; diet of large amounts of chili; red tongue with thick white dry coating; deep rolling wiry pulse; pain on abdominal palpation; excess heat in the Large Intestine. Gentle Lax (Excess). Result: bowel movement induced after 3 doses. Continued for 1 week at smaller doses — daily bowel movement achieved.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003e50-year-old female:\u003c\/b\u003e Bowel obstruction and constipation for 5–6 days; severity 10+\/10; qi deficiency with internal heat. Gentle Lax (Excess) 4 caps 4x daily. Result: bowel movement the next day. Reduced to 3 caps 3x daily until bowel function normalized.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eRelated Reading\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlso see: \u003ca href=\"\/products\/gentle-lax-deficient\"\u003eGentle Lax (Deficient)\u003c\/a\u003e – for chronic, habitual, and deficient-type constipation | \u003ca href=\"\/products\/gi-dtx\"\u003eGI DTX\u003c\/a\u003e – for colon detox | \u003ca href=\"\/products\/gi-care\"\u003eGI Care\u003c\/a\u003e – for acid reflux and stomach ulcers | \u003ca href=\"\/products\/gi-harmony\"\u003eGI Harmony\u003c\/a\u003e – for irritable bowel syndrome | \u003ca href=\"\/products\/gi-care-uc\"\u003eGI Care (UC)\u003c\/a\u003e – for ulcerative colitis | \u003ca href=\"\/products\/gi-care-hmr\"\u003eGI Care (HMR)\u003c\/a\u003e – for hemorrhoids | \u003ca href=\"\/products\/notoginseng-9\"\u003eNotoginseng 9\u003c\/a\u003e – for hemorrhoid bleeding | \u003ca href=\"\/products\/gardenia-complex\"\u003eGardenia Complex\u003c\/a\u003e – for constipation with excess fire | \u003ca href=\"\/products\/gastrodia-complex\"\u003eGastrodia Complex\u003c\/a\u003e – for constipation with hypertension | \u003ca href=\"\/products\/liver-dtx\"\u003eLiver DTX\u003c\/a\u003e – for detoxification | \u003ca href=\"\/products\/neuro-plus\"\u003eNeuro Plus\u003c\/a\u003e – for constipation with neurodegenerative disorders | \u003ca href=\"\/products\/calm\"\u003eCalm\u003c\/a\u003e – for constipation due to stress | \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/digestive-health-gi-support\"\u003eDigestive Health \u0026amp; GI Support Collection\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Modern Herbal Formulas","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":53409971339375,"sku":null,"price":28.36,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0726\/8630\/5391\/files\/Gentlelaxexcess.jpg?v=1782604130"},{"product_id":"pinellia-complex-damp-phlegm-nausea-spleen-tcm","title":"Pinellia Complex – TCM Formula for Damp \u0026 Phlegm, Nausea, Cough with Sputum, Obesity, Diabetes \u0026 Spleen Qi Deficiency","description":"\u003ch1\u003ePinellia Complex™\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eTCM herbal formula based on \u003ci\u003eEr Chen Tang\u003c\/i\u003e (Two-Cured Decoction) — the foundational formula for treating dampness and phlegm — for damp and phlegm accumulation with Spleen and Stomach qi deficiency: profuse white sputum easily expectorated, distension and stifling sensation in the chest and epigastrium, nausea, vomiting, lassitude, weak extremities, vertigo, palpitations, white moist or greasy tongue coating, slippery pulse; pale face, sallow complexion, poor appetite, loose stools — dries dampness and dissolves phlegm; regulates qi and harmonizes the middle \u003ci\u003ejiao\u003c\/i\u003e; tonifies Spleen qi. Mostly used as an adjunct formula to treat a variety of disorders when the diagnosis includes dampness and phlegm.\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e⚠️ Contraindicated in cases of yin deficiency, yin-deficient heat, qi stagnation, excess heat, high fever, or thirst conditions. Discontinue when the desired effect is achieved — continued use may cause yin deficiency with symptoms of dry mouth, dry tongue, thirst, or irritability. Most effective when used as an adjunct: Pinellia Complex dispels damp and phlegm while another formula treats the subsequent disorder.\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eTCM pathophysiology:\u003c\/b\u003e Damp and phlegm disorders are closely related to the functions of the organs that control water — the Spleen (transforms water), Lung (distributes water), and Kidney (eliminates water). Disorders in any of these three organs lead to accumulation of water and dampness, and eventually the formation of phlegm. Once phlegm is formed, it may affect virtually any part of the body — chest, diaphragm, stomach, intestines, all four extremities, and every channel and collateral. Presentations include cough, wheezing, hurried respiration, dizziness, vertigo, nausea, vomiting, seizures, epilepsy, \u003ci\u003edian kuang\u003c\/i\u003e (mania and withdrawal), formation of hardness and nodules, and many others. Phlegm is commonly described in TCM as the \"mother of hundreds of disorders.\" Damp and phlegm are derived from foods that are fatty, oily, greasy, and\/or deep-fried — low in nutrients, difficult to digest, and adversely affecting the digestive system.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eCLINICAL APPLICATIONS\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* \u003cb\u003eDamp and phlegm accumulation:\u003c\/b\u003e profuse white sputum easily expectorated, distension and stifling sensation in the chest and epigastrium, nausea, vomiting, lassitude, weak extremities, vertigo, palpitations, white moist or greasy tongue coating, slippery pulse\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* \u003cb\u003eSpleen and Stomach qi deficiencies:\u003c\/b\u003e pale face, sallow complexion, low voice, lassitude, weakness of the extremities, poor appetite, loose stools, pale tongue with teeth marks, fine moderate pulse\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* Adjunct formula for a wide variety of disorders when the diagnosis includes dampness and phlegm — gastrointestinal, metabolic (obesity, diabetes), respiratory, cardiovascular (hyperlipidemia, atherosclerosis), and neurological\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eKey herb-level clinical data:\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eBan Xia\u003c\/b\u003e (Rhizoma Pinelliae \/ Pinellia Rhizome \/ Pinellia ternata): chief herb — best herb to break up and dissolve phlegm stagnation; acrid and warm properties dissolve phlegm, dry dampness, and open pathways for qi to flow; corrects reversed flow of Stomach qi to relieve nausea and vomiting; significant antiemetic effect — commonly used to treat nausea and vomiting due to various causes; antiobesity — decreases body weight by increasing thermogenesis and fatty acid oxidation; marked and prolonged antitussive and expectorant effects; antiasthmatic — inhibits eosinophil infiltration and airway hyperresponsiveness (combined with Chen Pi)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eJu Hong\u003c\/b\u003e (Exocarpium Citri Rubrum \/ Red Tangerine Peel): activates and regulates qi; removes residual phlegm and dampness\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eFu Ling\u003c\/b\u003e (Poria \/ Poria Cocos \/ Hoelen): strengthens the Spleen; dispels dampness; antihyperglycemic — reduces postprandial blood glucose levels via enhanced insulin sensitivity\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eBai Zhu\u003c\/b\u003e (Rhizoma Atractylodis Macrocephalae \/ White Atractylodes Rhizome): strengthens the Spleen; dispels dampness; dual effect on the gastrointestinal tract — treats either constipation or diarrhea; antiobesity — reduces body weight associated with high-fat diet by inhibiting adipogenesis; antidiabetic — lowers plasma glucose levels\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eCang Zhu\u003c\/b\u003e (Rhizoma Atractylodis \/ Atractylodes Rhizome \/ Gray Atractylodes): strengthens the Spleen; dispels dampness; balancing GI effect — relaxes the gastrointestinal tract to relieve spasms and cramps, OR stimulates to increase gastric emptying and intestinal motility; antidiabetic — lowers plasma glucose levels; may decrease blood pressure\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eXiang Fu\u003c\/b\u003e (Rhizoma Cyperi \/ Cyperus Rhizome \/ Nutgrass Rhizome): resolves dampness; promotes qi circulation; may strengthen the heartbeat and lower the heart rate\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eSha Ren\u003c\/b\u003e (Fructus Amomi \/ Amomum Fruit \/ Cardamom): resolves dampness; promotes qi circulation; regulatory effect on the gastrointestinal system — stimulating at low doses, inhibiting at high doses\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eZhu Ru\u003c\/b\u003e (Caulis Bambusae in Taenia \/ Bamboo Shavings): clears heat; regulates qi; eliminates phlegm\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eZhi Qiao\u003c\/b\u003e (Fructus Aurantii \/ Bitter Orange Fruit \/ Aurantium): clears heat; regulates qi; eliminates phlegm; gastroprotective — protects gastric mucosa against lesions induced by ethanol and NSAIDs by increasing gastric mucus production; antiatherogenic and anti-inflammatory — naringenin and hesperetin upregulate transcription of adiponectin; synephrine — moderate effect to relax and dilate the airways\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eSheng Jiang\u003c\/b\u003e (Rhizoma Zingiberis Recens \/ Fresh Ginger Rhizome): relieves nausea and vomiting by guiding Stomach qi downward; detoxifies Ban Xia; significant antiemetic effect — reviewed as anti-emetic in cancer chemotherapy; antidiabetic — increases blood insulin level and enhances insulin sensitivity\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eWu Mei\u003c\/b\u003e (Fructus Mume \/ Mume Fruit \/ Japanese Apricot \/ Prunus mume): astringes the Lung to prevent qi loss; balances the dispersing nature of Ban Xia — minimizes potential side effects; reduces mucosal inflammation; protects against chronic atrophic gastritis and Helicobacter pylori-related chronic gastritis\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— \u003cb\u003eZhi Gan Cao\u003c\/b\u003e (Radix et Rhizoma Glycyrrhizae Praeparata cum Melle \/ Honey-Prepared Licorice Root): regulates the Lung and Spleen; harmonizes all herbs; marked and prolonged antitussive and expectorant effects; gastroprotective — stimulates growth of intestinal crypt cells to facilitate intestinal mucosa repair; antihyperlipidemic — lowers plasma cholesterol levels; restores normal heart rhythm; treats acute episodes and sequelae of stroke (combined with other herbs in formula)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWESTERN THERAPEUTIC ACTIONS\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* \u003cb\u003eGastrointestinal\u003c\/b\u003e — Bai Zhu (dual effect: constipation or diarrhea); Cang Zhu (relaxes GI spasms\/cramps OR stimulates gastric emptying and intestinal motility); Sha Ren (stimulating at low dose, inhibiting at high dose); Sheng Jiang + Ban Xia (significant antiemetic; nausea and vomiting due to various causes); Wu Mei (gastroprotective; chronic atrophic gastritis; H. pylori); Zhi Gan Cao (intestinal mucosa repair); Zhi Qiao (gastroprotective; gastric mucus↑; protects against ethanol and NSAID lesions); clinical: gastric or duodenal ulcers, atrophic gastritis, epigastric pain\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* \u003cb\u003eMetabolic \/ antiobesity \/ antidiabetic\u003c\/b\u003e — Ban Xia (body weight↓ via thermogenesis↑ and fatty acid oxidation↑); Bai Zhu (body weight↓ via adipogenesis inhibition); Bai Zhu + Cang Zhu (antidiabetic; plasma glucose↓); Fu Ling (postprandial blood glucose↓ via insulin sensitivity↑); Sheng Jiang (blood insulin↑; insulin sensitivity↑); clinical: diabetes mellitus, diabetic retinopathy, diabetic nephropathy, diabetic foot\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* \u003cb\u003eCirculatory \/ cardiovascular\u003c\/b\u003e — Gan Cao (plasma cholesterol↓; restores normal heart rhythm); Zhi Qiao (antiatherogenic; anti-inflammatory; naringenin and hesperetin upregulate adiponectin); Cang Zhu (blood pressure↓); Xiang Fu (strengthens heartbeat; lowers heart rate); clinical: hyperlipidemia, atherosclerosis, acute episodes and sequelae of stroke\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* \u003cb\u003eAntitussive \/ expectorant \/ antiasthmatic\u003c\/b\u003e — Ban Xia + Gan Cao (marked and prolonged antitussive and expectorant effects); Ban Xia + Chen Pi (antiasthmatic — inhibits eosinophil infiltration and airway hyperresponsiveness); Zhi Qiao \/ synephrine (relaxes and dilates airways); clinical: asthma, bronchitis, bronchiolitis, tuberculosis\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eCHINESE THERAPEUTIC ACTIONS\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* Dries dampness and dissolves phlegm — chief: Ban Xia (breaks up and dissolves phlegm stagnation; dries dampness; opens qi pathways)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* Regulates qi and harmonizes the middle \u003ci\u003ejiao\u003c\/i\u003e (Ju Hong, Xiang Fu, Sha Ren, Zhu Ru, Zhi Qiao, Sheng Jiang)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* Tonifies Spleen qi; strengthens the Spleen; dispels dampness (Fu Ling, Bai Zhu, Cang Zhu)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* Astringes the Lung; prevents qi loss; balances dispersing nature of Ban Xia (Wu Mei)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* Regulates the Lung and Spleen; harmonizes all herbs (Zhi Gan Cao)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eDOSAGE\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eStandard:\u003c\/b\u003e 3–4 capsules three times daily on an empty stomach. May increase to 6–8 capsules every 4–6 hours as needed. Discontinue when the desired effect is achieved.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eSupplementary formulas:\u003c\/b\u003e Respiratory disorders with clear or white sputum — add Respitrol (Cold). Respiratory disorders with yellow sputum — add Pinellia XPT and\/or Respitrol (Heat). Asthma in children caused by heat — add Respitrol (Heat). Nasal allergies — add Magnolia Clear Sinus or Pueraria Clear Sinus. Dry-phlegm (yellow, thick, difficult to expectorate) — add Nourish (Fluids). Nausea and vomiting due to cold in the Stomach with deficient constitution — add GI Tonic. Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) — add GI Harmony. Depression — add Shine or Shine (DS). Nodules caused by phlegm obstructing the channels — add Resolve (AI). Severe Spleen and Stomach qi deficiencies or diarrhea — add GI Tonic. Edema due to Spleen deficiency — add Herbal DRX. Qi and blood deficiencies — add Imperial Tonic. Damp-type lesions — add Dermatrol (Damp). Damp-heat in the lower \u003ci\u003ejiao\u003c\/i\u003e — add V-Support. Plum-pit syndrome — add \u003ci\u003eBan Xia Hou Po Tang\u003c\/i\u003e (Pinellia and Magnolia Bark Decoction).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eNutrition:\u003c\/b\u003e Avoid all foods containing sugar (cake, dessert, candy, chocolate, soda, canned juice, soft drinks, stevia, sugar substitutes, agave, xylitol, corn syrup). Avoid raw or cold food and beverages (sashimi, sushi, salads, steak tartar, seared meat) — eat cooked vegetables and nothing straight from the refrigerator. Avoid carbohydrates like white rice or bread — damage the Spleen and produce more dampness. Do not eat seafood, especially shellfish (crab, oyster, scallop, clam, lobster, shrimp) — enter the \u003ci\u003eyangming\u003c\/i\u003e Stomach channel; especially important for individuals with skin disorders. Avoid fermented foods (cheese, fermented tofu). Avoid dairy products (milk, cream, yogurt, cheese, ice cream) — create dampness; especially important for lactose-intolerant patients. Do not eat lamb, beef, goose, or duck. Avoid deep-fried or greasy foods. Avoid cold-natured foods that damage the Spleen: most melons (winter melon, watermelon, honeydew), nightshades (eggplant, potato, bell and spicy peppers, tomato), bitter melon, seaweed, cucumber, grapefruit, and citrus.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eTao of Nutrition (Dr. Maoshing Ni and Cathy McNease):\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— Hawthorn berries, papayas, oranges, apples, daikons, and parsley.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— Dry and age orange peel for about one month; soak in hot water to make tea and drink after meals.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— Blend daikon radish juice and take after meals.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eLifestyle:\u003c\/b\u003e Always eat breakfast — optimal digestive time per TCM clock is 8–10 a.m. Drink warm or hot liquids with meals — cold or iced drinks hinder natural peristaltic movements of the digestive system. Sleep by 10:00 p.m. — in TCM, 11 p.m. to 1 a.m. is when yin shifts to yang; the body must be at rest during this time for optimal health. Allow 2–3 hours between the last meal of the day and bedtime — the digestive system slows during sleep.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eRelated Reading\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlso see: \u003ca href=\"\/products\/respitrol-cold\"\u003eRespitrol (Cold)\u003c\/a\u003e – for respiratory disorders with clear or white sputum | \u003ca href=\"\/products\/pinellia-xpt\"\u003ePinellia XPT\u003c\/a\u003e – for respiratory disorders with yellow sputum | \u003ca href=\"\/products\/respitrol-heat\"\u003eRespitrol (Heat)\u003c\/a\u003e – for respiratory disorders with yellow sputum or asthma in children caused by heat | \u003ca href=\"\/products\/magnolia-clear-sinus\"\u003eMagnolia Clear Sinus\u003c\/a\u003e – for nasal allergies | \u003ca href=\"\/products\/pueraria-clear-sinus\"\u003ePueraria Clear Sinus\u003c\/a\u003e – for nasal allergies | \u003ca href=\"\/products\/nourish-fluids\"\u003eNourish (Fluids)\u003c\/a\u003e – for dry-phlegm (yellow, thick, difficult to expectorate) | \u003ca href=\"\/products\/gi-tonic\"\u003eGI Tonic\u003c\/a\u003e – for nausea and vomiting due to cold in the Stomach, or severe Spleen and Stomach qi deficiencies | \u003ca href=\"\/products\/gi-harmony\"\u003eGI Harmony\u003c\/a\u003e – for irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) | \u003ca href=\"\/products\/shine\"\u003eShine\u003c\/a\u003e – for depression | \u003ca href=\"\/products\/shine-ds\"\u003eShine (DS)\u003c\/a\u003e – for depression | \u003ca href=\"\/products\/resolve-ai\"\u003eResolve (AI)\u003c\/a\u003e – for nodules caused by phlegm obstructing the channels | \u003ca href=\"\/products\/herbal-drx\"\u003eHerbal DRX\u003c\/a\u003e – for edema due to Spleen deficiency | \u003ca href=\"\/products\/imperial-tonic\"\u003eImperial Tonic\u003c\/a\u003e – for qi and blood deficiencies | \u003ca href=\"\/products\/dermatrol-damp\"\u003eDermatrol (Damp)\u003c\/a\u003e – for damp-type lesions | \u003ca href=\"\/products\/v-support\"\u003eV-Support\u003c\/a\u003e – for damp-heat in the lower \u003ci\u003ejiao\u003c\/i\u003e | \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/digestive-health-gi-support\"\u003eDigestive Health \u0026amp; GI Support Collection\u003c\/a\u003e | \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/respiratory-health-lung-support\"\u003eRespiratory Health \u0026amp; Lung Support Collection\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Modern Herbal Formulas","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":53412103716975,"sku":null,"price":33.22,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0726\/8630\/5391\/files\/PinelliaComplex.jpg?v=1782677034"}],"url":"https:\/\/modernherbalformulas.com\/collections\/digestive-health-gi-support.oembed","provider":"Modern Herbal Formulas","version":"1.0","type":"link"}