Clinical application standards of Shengyang Sanhuo decoction

Shengyang Sanhuo Decoction (SYSHD) was first recorded in Clarifying Doubts about Injury from Internal and External Causes ( Nei Wai Shang Bian Huo Lun ) by the Jin–Yuan dynasty physician Li Dongyuan . It integrates therapeutic strategies of dispersing, tonifying, and regulating. Originally designed to treat “Yin fire” syndrome caused by spleen–stomach deficiency and stagnation of Yang Qi, SYSHD is now recognized for its anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, and metabolic-regulating properties. Clinically, SYSHD is indicated for spleen–stomach deficiency with stagnation of Yang Qi in the middle Jiao, presenting with fatigue, insomnia, dyspnea, anorexia, loose stools, and limb heaviness. Patients may also experience low-grade fever or subjective heat aggravated by exertion. Common comorbid syndromes include liver Qi stagnation (manifesting as depression and anxiety) and dampness retention (manifesting as epigastric fullness, urinary disturbances, or hematuria). Typical diagnostic signs include an enlarged tongue with teeth marks and a greasy coating, accompanied by a soggy-moderate, wiry-slippery, or thready-slippery pulse.