modified xiaochaihu decoction

Modified Xiaochaihu decoction (MXD) is a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) herbal formula derived from the classical Xiaochaihu decoction. It is composed of the original ingredients—primarily Bupleurum chinense DC.—with additional herbs such as Phyllanthus urinaria, Atractylodes macrocephala (largehead atractylodes rhizome), Poria cocos, Paeonia lactiflora (white peony root), and Schisandra chinensis (Fructus Schisandrae)[3]. MXD has been widely used in Asia for thousands of years to treat various chronic diseases. Modern clinical studies have demonstrated its efficacy in treating gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), where it shows similar or superior effects compared to proton pump inhibitors in improving esophageal motility and reducing symptom recurrence[1][5][7]. It has also been studied for persistent depressive disorder when combined with mirtazapine[4], and for chronic hepatitis B due to its hepatoprotective and antiviral properties mediated partly through modulation of the JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway[3]. The mechanism of action involves multi-target regulation including anti-inflammatory effects, immune modulation, hepatoprotection, and possible antiviral activity.

Other names

MXDmXCHDmodified xiaochaihu tang小柴胡汤加减方