Scallion and Fermented Soybean Decoction
The Primary Remedy for Cold and Sweating Therapy
ANCIENT REMEDY FROM 300 AD
What is Scallion and Fermented Soybean Decoction?
Scallion and Fermented Soybean Decoction (Cong Chi Tang) originates from the Chinese medical classic "Zhou Hou Bei Ji Fang" (Emergency Formulas to Keep Up One's Sleeve) from the Northern and Southern Dynasties (300-500 AD). It consists of just two ingredients: scallion white and prepared soybean (fermented black soybean). With its mild properties and simple preparation, it's renowned as "the first effective formula at the onset of a common cold."
Ancient Chinese Medical Text
Benefits and Effects
Release Exterior
Dispels wind-cold pathogens from the body surface
Promote Sweating
Warms and activates yang energy to induce mild sweating
Relieve Irritability
Alleviates mild restlessness caused by external pathogens
Applicable Symptoms
This remedy is particularly suitable when you experience these mild symptoms of wind-cold type common cold:
- Feeling slightly chilly with mild fever (body temperature usually not very high)
- Nasal congestion with clear discharge
- Headache, especially with neck stiffness
- Sneezing
- Body aches without heavy sweating
- Loss of appetite or bland taste in mouth
Formula and Preparation
Scallion White (with roots)
3-5 stalks
Prepared Soybean (Dan Dou Chi)
10-15 grams
Preparation Steps:
- Wash the scallion whites (with roots attached) and cut into sections
- Place both the prepared soybean and scallion sections into a pot
- Add about 500ml of water (approximately two bowls), bring to boil then simmer for 5-10 minutes
- Strain out the herbs and drink the liquid while hot
Tip: After drinking, it's best to rest covered with a blanket to help induce mild sweating. Can be taken 1-2 times a day.
Important Precautions
- Pattern Identification: This formula is only suitable for wind-cold type common cold. If you have wind-heat type common cold (symptoms: sore throat, yellow phlegm, yellow nasal discharge, thirst, high fever), it is not appropriate and may worsen your condition.
- Early Stage Only: When cold symptoms are severe or have progressed deeper, this formula may not be strong enough, and you should consult a professional TCM practitioner.
- "Prepared Soybean" is Key: Be sure to use "Dan Dou Chi" from a Chinese herbal shop, not the salted fermented black beans used in everyday cooking. Their preparation methods and medicinal properties are completely different.
- Mild Sweating Only: Induce only slight sweating after taking the remedy. Avoid heavy sweating as it may weaken your body's resistance.
- Consult a Professional: If you're unsure about your cold type or have other chronic health conditions, consult a TCM practitioner before use.