In my clinical practice, I've noticed that Liver Qi Stagnation can actually be classified into three grades, each corresponding to different medicinal treatments.

Let's talk about the first grade first, which is mild Liver Qi Stagnation. With the fast-paced lifestyle nowadays, many people experience significant stress, often feel sulky, lose interest in various matters, constantly feel tightness in the chest, and have trouble sleeping at night. This is essentially Liver Qi failing to spread freely; the Liver governs dredging and discharging, and when Liver Qi is not smooth, the movement of Qi and Blood becomes obstructed.

In such cases, we can use Bupleurum Liver-Soothing Powder for regulation. Bupleurum Liver-Soothing Powder can soothe the liver and regulate qi, straightening out the stagnant qi in the body. When qi and blood flow smoothly, both mood and physical condition naturally improve significantly. It's like when traffic is congested on a road, a traffic officer comes to direct it, and the flow becomes smooth—the principle is the same for the circulation of qi and blood in the body.

If mild liver stagnation is not addressed in time, over time it can affect the spleen and stomach. Traditional Chinese medicine holds that the liver corresponds to wood, and the spleen corresponds to earth. Wood restrains earth, so liver qi stagnation can inhibit the transportation and transformation functions of the spleen and stomach, leading to spleen deficiency. With spleen deficiency, the production of qi and blood becomes insufficient, making the body prone to various issues.

At this point, Xiaoyao Pills come into play. Xiaoyao Pills both soothe the liver and nourish the blood, while also strengthening the spleen. They are suitable for those who are depressed, have poor appetite, frequently experience abdominal bloating and indigestion, sallow complexion, lack of energy, and dizziness. Why? Because Xiaoyao Pills regulate the liver and spleen, allowing liver qi to flow freely and restoring the normal function of the spleen and stomach. With sufficient qi and blood, these symptoms naturally improve.

Finally, let's talk about the most severe level, which involves liver stagnation transforming into fire with significant damp-heat. Such individuals often experience dry mouth and bitter taste, extreme irritability—easily triggered by minor matters—dizziness, dry stools or constipation, dark and scanty urine, and frequently damp, itchy groin with an unpleasant odor. This occurs because prolonged liver stagnation causes qi stagnation to transform into fire, while the spleen generates dampness. When dampness and heat mix together, these symptoms arise.

At this point, Gentian Liver-Draining Pill becomes more appropriate. Gentian Liver-Draining Pill can clear liver fire and remove dampness and heat, eliminating the fire and dampness in the body to restore balance. It's like when your home catches fire and water gets in, making it damp and hot—Gentian Liver-Draining Pill is like a firefighter, putting out the fire, draining the water, and leaving the home refreshed.

However, medication should be used with caution. Everyone's body condition is different, and it's best to use it under the guidance of a professional doctor. Don’t take it randomly on your own.