Xiao Yao San
In traditional TCM context, Xiao Yao San (逍遥散) is a classic herbal formula. It is traditionally used to soothes the Liver, strengthens the Spleen, nourishes the Blood
At a Glance
Traditional TCM Context
Classic formula · 3 ingredients
Soothes the Liver, strengthens the Spleen, nourishes the Blood
Direct Modern Evidence
0 exact formula papers
No direct research on this exact formula is currently linked in this library.
Safety Notes
Formula-specific safety information is limited
Formula-specific safety information is limited. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Traditional TCM Perspective
Traditional Formula Role
Xiao Yao San is one of the most widely prescribed harmonizing formulas in Traditional Chinese Medicine, originating from the Tai Ping Hui Min He Ji Ju Fang (太平惠民和剂局方, Formulary of the Bureau of People's Welfare Pharmacies, Song Dynasty, 1078–1085 CE). It is designed to address the common clinical pattern of Liver Qi Stagnation with Spleen Deficiency (肝郁脾虚), a pattern frequently associated with stress-related emotional and digestive symptoms. In traditional TCM theory, the Liver is responsible for the smooth flow of Qi throughout the body, and emotional constraint or chronic stress can cause Liver Qi to stagnate. When Liver Qi stagnates, it often "invades" or "overacts on" the Spleen, compromising digestive function. Xiao Yao San simultaneously soothes the constrained Liver and strengthens the weakened Spleen, restoring harmonious flow between these two organ systems. The formula's name — meaning "Free and Easy Wanderer" — poetically describes the state of unburdened physical and emotional ease it aims to restore.
Core TCM Functions
Soothes the Liver, strengthens the Spleen, nourishes the Blood
What Current Research Does—and Does Not—Show
TCMIO has not identified direct human research on the complete formula in its current reference set. Evidence relating to individual herbs, formula variants, or traditional use should not be treated as evidence for the complete formula.
Safety & Boundaries
Formula-Specific Safety Notes
Formula-specific safety information is limited. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Contraindications
Contraindicated in yin-deficiency with internal heat. Not recommended in acute infectious diseases with high fever.
General Safety Boundary
- TCMIO provides educational information only — not medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment recommendations.
- Formula-level safety profiles may differ from individual herb profiles. Consult a qualified TCM practitioner for individualized guidance.
- For herb-specific safety information, see the individual herb profiles: Dang Gui, Gan Cao, Bai Shao.
Formula Composition
The following herbs compose Xiao Yao San according to traditional formula structure. Roles are labeled in Traditional Formula Context.
Click any herb to view its full detail page.
Dang Gui
当归
Angelica sinensis
Tonifies blood, regulates menstruation, alleviates pain
Gan Cao
甘草
Glycyrrhiza uralensis
Tonifies Spleen Qi, clears heat, detoxifies, moderates other herbs
Bai Shao
白芍
Paeonia lactiflora
Nourishes Blood, regulates menstruation, softens the Liver, alleviates pain, preserves Yin.
Traditional Formula Context: Ingredient roles (Chief/Deputy/Assistant/Envoy) reflect traditional TCM formulary theory. These classifications are educational and do not constitute modern pharmacological ranking.
Related Knowledge
Related Symptoms(4)
Related TCM Patterns(3)
Related Herbs(3)
Related Conditions(3)
Sources(2)
- 1.
Chinese Pharmacopoeia Commission. Chinese Pharmacopoeia 2020 Edition — Xiao Yao San. Chinese Pharmacopoeia 2020, Vol. I. 2020.
Bibliographic details
Reliability: official
Source type: official_compendium
- 2.
Imperial Medical Bureau, Song Dynasty. Tai Ping Hui Min He Ji Ju Fang (太平惠民和剂局方). 1078–1085 CE, Song Dynasty.. 1085.
Bibliographic details
Reliability: classic
Source type: classical_text
Medical Disclaimer: The information on TCMIO is provided for educational purposes only. It is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using any herbal products, starting any new treatment, or making changes to your existing healthcare regimen. Do not stop or modify any prescribed treatment without consulting your healthcare provider.
If you are experiencing severe or urgent symptoms, seek immediate medical attention by calling emergency services or visiting the nearest emergency department.