[Interpretation of connotations of formula and syndrome of Chaihu Guizhi Decoction based on modern pathophysiological mechanisms and its clinical application].

Chaihu Guizhi Decoction, originating from ZHANG Zhong-jing's Treatise on Febrile Diseases(Shang Han Lun), is a classic formula used to harmonize the Shaoyang and regulate nutrient-defense. It is primarily used to treat diseases involving both Taiyang and Shaoyang syndromes. The formula's indications are concisely summarized, yet rich in meaning, and reflect a profound connection with modern medical pathophysiological mechanisms. Key indications for Chaihu Guizhi Decoction are listed below. Diseases: it is used for rheumatoid arthritis, Sj9gren's syndrome, systemic lupus erythematosus(SLE), ankylosing spondylitis, overlap syndrome, and other rheumatic autoimmune diseases. It is also applied to diseases that involve immune system changes but do not yet have a clear diagnosis, such as cervical spondylosis, periarthritis of the shoulder, knee arthritis, and other bone-joint diseases. Additionally, it is indicated for skin conditions like eczema and urticaria, digestive system diseases such as gastritis, gastric ulcers, duodenal ulcers, cholecystitis, and ulcerative colitis, allergic diseases like allergic rhinitis and allergic dermatitis, as well as allergic constitution and weak constitutions. Symptoms: these include bitter taste, dry throat, dizziness, fever with aversion to wind, alternating chills and fever, intermittent episodes, sensitivity to cold and heat, tendency to sweat(including spontaneous or night sweats), depression, anxiety, fullness in the chest and sides, bloating in the stomach and abdomen, restlessness, nausea, poor appetite, soreness and pain in large and small joints such as the neck, shoulders, hands, and knees. The tongue may be dark red or dull with a thin white coating, and the pulse is wiry. In terms of formula differentiation, Chaihu Guizhi Decoction should be distinguished from Chaihu plus Longgu Muli Decoction and Chaihu Guizhi Ganjiang Decoction. In terms of treatment duration, it typically takes effect within one week for diseases such as stomach disorders, rhinitis, and dermatitis. However, when used for regulating physical constitution or treating joint pain, rheumatism, and autoimmune diseases, it requires slow and small doses and takes at least three months to show significant effects.