Ba Zheng San Capsules

This formula is for hot or bloody painful urinary dysfunction caused by the clumping of damp-heat in the lower burner. There is commonly a history of overindulgence in spicy, sweet or rich foods, or overconsumption of alcohol. Damp-heat in the Bladder manifests as turbid, dark urine that is scanty, difficult to pass, and painful. The urine will become dark-red if there is injury to the blood vessels. If especially severe, the patient may be unable to urinate and will experience lower abdominal distention and pain. The presence of heat with accumulation of dampness in the lower burner is reflected in the dry mouth and throat. The tongue and pulse signs are typical of damp-heat. According to the source text, this formula is also indicated for heat in the Heart channel characterized by a parched throat, severe thirst, irritability, eye redness and pain, scorched lips, nosebleed, and sores in the mouth, tongue, or throat. Today most formulas for urinary tract infection are based on this formula. However, since urinary tract infection (usually a type of painful urinary dysfunction) is not always caused by damp-heat or other forms of excess, the use of this formula may be inappropriate. -From Bensky: Chinese Herbal Medicine Formulas and Stratagies*