In Traditional Chinese Medicine theory, phlegm-dampness and blood stasis are considered important pathological factors for many chronic diseases and complex conditions. Both can occur independently but often combine to form "phlegm-blood mutual binding," obstructing qi flow, impeding qi and blood, and causing discomfort in multiple parts of the body. Phlegm is sticky, blood stasis is congealed, and their intertwining often makes the condition persistent and difficult to heal.

The combination of phlegm and blood stasis can affect multiple organs and meridians. For example, phlegm-blood obstruction in the lungs may lead to cough, shortness of breath, and chest tightness; congestion in the heart chest can cause palpitations and chest pain; disturbance of the clear orifices may result in dizziness, forgetfulness, or even mental abnormalities; obstruction in the middle jiao (stomach and spleen) is commonly associated with stomach fullness, pain, and poor digestion; stagnation in the liver and gallbladder can cause hypochondriac pain; retention in the limbs and joints may manifest as numbness, pain, or the formation of nodules or masses. Therefore, for such complex conditions, Traditional Chinese Medicine often employs the method of "treating phlegm and blood simultaneously."

%% The "Shuanghe Decoction," created by the Ming Dynasty physician Gong Tingxian for the condition of phlegm and blood stasis intermingling, is a representative formula. This formula integrates invigorating blood circulation and resolving blood stasis with drying dampness and resolving phlegm. Ingredients such as peach kernel, safflower, angelica sinensis, and ligusticum chuanxiong invigorate blood and resolve blood stasis, while tangerine peel, pinellia ternata, poria, and white mustard seed regulate qi and resolve phlegm. Together, they help to unblock meridians and resolve adhesions. In clinical practice, the dosage ratio is adjusted based on the relative severity of phlegm and blood stasis, while also considering the functions of the five zang organs to achieve comprehensive regulation.

In a clinical setting, a middle-aged male patient with obesity and fatigue was treated for recurrent chest tightness and dizziness, heaviness in limbs, dark tongue with greasy coating, and slippery and 涩 (deficient) pulse. Western medical examinations revealed no significant organic lesions, and the condition was diagnosed as phlegm and blood stasis intermingling, obstructing chest yang according to TCM differentiation. The Shuanghe Decoction was used as a base with slight modifications, and after two weeks of medication, the chest tightness significantly improved. Continued treatment for one month further enhanced his physical strength and overall condition.

It should be noted that while treating phlegm and blood stasis together is a common practice, accurate differentiation of symptoms is essential. Individualized medication should be used based on different constitutions and specific pathogenesis. It is recommended to use this under the guidance of a professional physician to avoid misdiagnosis.