In our township lived a wealthy man named Tian Dashou who had no heirs in his old age. His domineering wife prevented him from taking concubines. After losing his fortune and suffering financial hardship, he developed illness from prolonged depression.
He consulted Rong Tong, an elderly physician he trusted. Rong initially diagnosed: “Wind-cold exterior invasion.” However, dispersing herbs brought no improvement. Rethinkening, Rong claimed: “Senile qi deficiency,” but tonifying herbs worsened symptoms. When treatments failed, Rong sought my assistance.
Upon pulse diagnosis:
- Liver pulse: slippery and rapid (Gan Mai Hua Shu)
- Spleen pulse: wiry and tense (Pi Bu Xian Ji)
- Pulse rate: three beats per breath (San Zhi Yi Xi) [normal: four beats]
I explained: “Your condition stems from liver qi stagnation (Gan Qi Yu Jie). Wood (Liver) overacting on Earth (Spleen) – Mu Lai Wu Tu – has damaged the spleen system. Symptoms may temporarily ease, but the root vitality is compromised.”
Though finding my candor abrupt, Tian requested prescription. I administered:
- Xiaoyao Powder (Xiaoyao San) – Liver-regulating formula
- Zuojin Pill (Zuojin Wan) – Liver-Spleen harmonizer
After several doses, symptoms lessened with improved appetite. Follow-up pulse showed moderated liver pulse but unchanged spleen pulse, confirming irreversible damage. Maintenance with Xiaoyao Powder continued.
Fifteen days later, Tian regained energy and attended village opera. Meeting at temple corridors, he declared: “I’m fully recovered!” I cautioned: “Complete recovery requires normalized pulse rhythm.” Six months later during my Beijing trip, spring’s return revealed Tian had passed months prior.
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