CLINICAL APPLICATIONS
Constipation
Excess-type constipation with red tongue, yellow tongue coat, and red face
Food stagnation or indigestion with abdominal distension and pain
 
WESTERN THERAPEUTIC ACTIONS
Strong laxative effect which treats moderate to severe constipation
Emollient effect which lubricates the bowels and promotes normal peristalsis of intestines
Increases intestinal peristalsis and removes food stagnation
 
CHINESE THERAPEUTIC ACTIONS
Relieves constipation
Disperses lower abdominal distension and pain
Purges accumulation of stagnant heat
 
DOSAGE
Take 3 to 4 capsules three times daily with warm water. To avoid stomach discomfort for individuals with sensitive gastrointestinal tract, take the herbs with meals, or decrease dosage and increase frequency of intake. The recommended starting dosage is 2 capsules four times daily.
 
INGREDIENTS
 
Bai Shao (Radix Paeoniae Alba)
Da Huang (Radix et Rhizoma Rhei)
Fan Xie Ye (Folium Sennae)
Hou Po (Cortex Magnoliae Officinalis)
Mang Xiao (Natrii Sulfas)
Tao Ren (Semen Persicae)
Zhi Shi (Fructus Aurantii Immaturus)
 
 
CAUTIONS & CONTRAINDICATIONS
This is a strong herbal formula that should be reserved for those with severe constipation. Stop taking the herbs when the desired effect is achieved. Use of Gentle Lax (Excess) at a large dosage or for a prolonged period of time is not recommended as it may cause diarrhea and dehydration.
Patients with intestinal obstruction should be referred to a medical doctor for immediate help. Surgical intervention may be necessary in some cases.
Patients with hemorrhoids should only take Gentle Lax (Excess) to relieve constipation. Should more bleeding occur, stop taking the formula immediately and switch to Notoginseng 9 instead.
A more serious etiology should be suspected if the constipation is accompanied by vomiting, blood in the stools, weight loss, or a distended, tympanitic abdomen.
This formula is contraindicated during pregnancy and nursing.
Gentle Lax (Excess) may be irritating to the intestinal mucosa. Patients should take this formula with caution by starting with a lower dosage or taking it with food.
 
CLINICAL NOTES
* Use of herbs is very effective to prevent drug-induced constipation.