
Bi Min Gan Wan - Magnolia & Scute Formula
Bi Min Gan Wan - Magnolia & Scute Formula
TCM ACTIONS
Releases exterior Wind-Cold and Wind-Heat, unblocks the nasal passages, reduces swelling and alleviates pain.
INDICATIONS
Allergic rhinitis (hayfever), acute infective rhinitis.
SIGNS & SYMPTOMS
Nasal congestion with sneezing, Copious clear or white rhinorrhoea, Itchy eyes, Lacrimation, Photophobia, Frontal headache or tenderness over the sinuses, Tongue may be pale or normal, Pulse is floating.
ACTIONS OF THE MAIN HERBS
Magnolia flower bud is used orally in formulas to treat nasal congestion, in common cold, influenza allergic rhinitis as well as nasal polyps and hypertrophic rhinitis. It has been shown to have localised astringent, vasodilator and antiphlogistic effects on the nasal mucosa. It also has a moderate antimicrobial action. Human studies have shown a high degree of efficacy in the treatment of rhinitis and paranasal sinusitis, when used in combination with several of the above herbs (e.g. Xanthium, Angelica and Mentha; or Scutellaria and Schizonepeta). It may also be applied topically into the nasal cavity, either alone or in combination with Scutellaria or a mixture of other herbs. Xanthium fruit is used orally in formulas to treat nasal congestion and pain, urticaria with itching and rheumatic disorders. It has been shown to have hypoglycaemic, antitussive and mild antibacterial actions. It has been the subject of several human studies, which showed a high degree of clinical efficacy in the treatment of chronic paranasal sinusitis, allergic rhinitis and chronic rhinitis. It may also be applied topically into the nasal cavity as a medicated oil preparation.
DOSAGE & COURSE OF TREATMENT
8 - 12 pills, 3 times daily, half to one hour away from food. In severe cases and in the early stages of treatment (first 1 – 2 weeks) the dosage may be increased by 50 - 100%. Course of treatment: 2 weeks to 6 months.
CAUTIONS
May cause nausea and headache in high dosages. May cause anxiety and palpitations in patients with Heart Qi deficiency, caution with higher dosages.
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