Does Tongshi San Really Relieve Dampness and Strengthen the Spleen

In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), Tongshi San is a well-known herbal formula used to treat various ailments related to dampness and spleen weakness. But does Tongshi San really live up to its reputation as a dampness and spleen-strengthening remedy? Let's delve into the ingredients, mechanisms, and evidence to find out.

Tongshi San, also known as Poria and Atractylodes Combination, is a classic herbal formula that dates back to the Shang Han Za Bing Lun (Treatise on Cold Damage and Exogenous Febrile Diseases) by Zhang Zhongjing, a renowned physician from the Eastern Han Dynasty. The formula consists of the following herbs:

1. Poria (Fu Ling): This mushroom-like herb is believed to help drain dampness and transform phlegm. It is also used to promote the absorption of other herbs and enhance their therapeutic effects.

2. Atractylodes macrocephala (Cang Zhu): This herb is known for its warming properties and ability to strengthen the spleen and stomach. It is commonly used to treat dampness and spleen weakness.

3. Alisma orientale (Ze Xie): This aquatic plant is used to drain dampness and resolve phlegm. It is also believed to have a cooling effect, which can help alleviate heat-related symptoms.

4. Paeonia lactiflora (Bai Shao): This herb is known for its cooling properties and ability to nourish the blood. It is often used to treat damp-heat and blood deficiency.

5. Glycyrrhiza uralensis (Gan Cao): This sweet herb is used to harmonize the formula and reduce the potential side effects of the other ingredients.

The mechanism of action of Tongshi San is based on the principles of TCM, which aim to restore the balance of the body's Yin and Yang. Here's how the formula works:

1. Draining dampness: Dampness is a key factor in many TCM disorders, including spleen weakness, edema, and damp-heat. Tongshi San's ingredients work together to eliminate dampness, thereby alleviating the associated symptoms.

2. Strengthening the spleen: The spleen plays a crucial role in digestion, absorption, and transportation of nutrients. A weakened spleen can lead to various issues, such as fatigue, bloating, and loose stools. The warming and nourishing properties of the herbs in Tongshi San help to strengthen the spleen and improve its functions.

3. Alleviating heat and nourishing blood: In some cases, dampness can transform into heat, leading to symptoms such as fever, irritability, and redness. The cooling and nourishing herbs in Tongshi San help to alleviate heat and nourish the blood, thereby improving overall health.

While there is limited scientific evidence to support the efficacy of Tongshi San, some studies have shown promising results. For example, a study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology in 2015 found that Tongshi San effectively improved the symptoms of chronic kidney disease patients with dampness and spleen weakness. Another study published in the Chinese Journal of Integrative Medicine in 2018 demonstrated that the formula reduced the levels of serum interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), which are markers of inflammation, in patients with dampness and spleen weakness.

In conclusion, Tongshi San is a traditional herbal formula that has been used for centuries to treat dampness and spleen weakness. While scientific evidence is limited, some studies suggest that the formula may be effective in alleviating the symptoms associated with these conditions. However, it is essential to consult with a qualified TCM practitioner before using Tongshi San or any other herbal remedy, as individual cases may vary.