ChinaMed Defence Plus Formula 78c

This formula was first recorded in 'Effective Prescriptions from Generations of Physicians' (shi yi de xiao fang) by Wei Yi-lin, 1345. It is a simple formula consisting of three ingredients only.

It was designed to promote resistance against attack by exogenous pathogens by tonifying the defence Qi (wei qi) and strengthening the Exterior. Because one of the main clinical manifestations of weak defence Qi is spontaneous sweating, an important action of the formula is to strengthen and secure (or 'consolidate') the Exterior, which equates with tightening the pores and astringing the sweat.

The modern uses for this formula centre on its adaptogenic action in promoting and balancing the immune system. It is commonly used to strengthen, support and balance immune function in a variety of chronic or recurring conditions, as listed above.

• Traditionally used in Chinese medicine to stabilise Exterior
• Traditionally used in Chinese medicine to tonify Qi
• Traditionally used in Chinese medicine to nourish superficial stratum
• Traditionally used in Chinese medicine to relieve excessive perspiration