Kaiyu San: Treating Enlarged Lymph Nodes
Kaiyu San (Stagnation-Resolving Powder) comes from Dongtian Aozhi, the work of the great Qing-diameter surgery specialist Chen Shiduo. Its composition is: Baishao (White Peony Root) 5 qian (15 g); Danggui (Angelica Root) 2 qian (6 g); Baijiezi (White Mustard Seed) 3 qian (9 g); Chaihu (Bupleurum Root) 1 qian (3 g); Zhigancao (Honey-fried Licorice) 8 fen (2.4 g); Quanxie (Scorpion) 3 whole; Baizhu (Atractylodes) 3 qian (9 g); Fulin (Poria) 3 qian (9 g); Yujin (Curcuma) 2 qian (6 g); Xiangfu (Cyperus Rhizome) 3 qian (9 g); Tiankuicao (Semiaspilopes Herb) 3 qian (9 g).
This is a decoction formula. At the time of use, decoct in water, strain, and take warm in two divided doses daily. The formula soothes the liver and resolves stagnation, resolves phlegm and scatters nodulation. It is indicated for scrofula formed by liver-qi stagnation—that is, enlarged lymph nodes. According to TCM theory, Chaihu and Yujin soothe the liver and resolve stagnation; Baishao softens the liver and stops pain; Danggui nourishes blood and invigorates blood; Xiangfu moves qi, scatters nodulation, resolves toxicity and reduces swelling; Baijiezi resolves phlegm and scatters nodulation; Baizhu and Fulin fortify the spleen and drain dampness; Quanxie attacks toxicity and scatters nodulation; Zhigancao harmonizes the various herbs. When these are combined, they achieve the actions of soothing the liver and resolving stagnation, fortifying the spleen and draining dampness, moving qi and invigorating blood, and scattering nodulation and reducing swelling.
The formula can be used to treat lymph node tuberculosis and lymphoma; Baijiezi, Quanxie, Tiankuicao and Yujin all have antitumor effects. The indication for this formula is a patient with abdominal distension and qi stagnation, pain in the hypochondria, a bitter mouth and dry throat, and enlarged lymph nodes. Patients with lymph node tuberculosis or lymphoma who show these clinical signs may be given this formula. When used for lymphoma, it should be considered in combination with Xihuang Wan, Xiaojin Wan and the like, together with chemotherapy.