Ma Zi Ren Wan
 
Traditionally Used to:
Clear internal heat, moisten the intestines, promote the movement of Qi and descend Yangming to unblock the bowels.

Constipation in the weak or elderly
Chronic constipation
Post-partum constipation
Post-surgical constipation
 
Traditional Understanding:
Constipation due to dryness of the Stomach and Intestines.

A Ma Zi Ren Wan pattern is one of ‘Spleen constraint’, whereby the Spleen is unable to distribute fluids, and dryness and heat in the stomach and intestines result. Hard stool with mild abdominal discomfort and frequent urination are hallmark symptoms, as the water is redirected to the Bladder. Ma Zi Ren Wan is not a strong purgative, rather a gentle moistening formula that corrects a Middle Jiao dysfunction.

Research has shown that the active components of Ma Zi Ren Wan can enhance colonic motility, possibly by acting on multiple targets and pathways. It is well tolerated and effective for functional constipation, and in cancer patients with constipation.

In this pattern, the tongue may be dry or with a slightly yellow coat, and the pulse either submerged and rapid, or floating and choppy – the former reflecting interior heat and the latter, external pathogenic dryness resulting in fluid stagnation.