Understanding SAN METHOD for dosing bulk herbs
The Modern San Method 散法: Classical Roots, Contemporary Application
In Chinese medicine, the method of preparing herbs is inseparable from the therapeutic strategy. Two of the most enduring methods seen throughout the classical texts are tāng 汤 (decoctions) and sǎn 散 (powders). Each reflects not only a form, but a way of engaging with the movement of qì 氣, the directionality of herbs, and the relationship between the body and the external environment.
Classical Foundations
Tāng jì 汤剂 are decoctions in which herbs are cooked in water. This method allows the formula to deeply penetrate and harmonize the internal organs, move through the channels, and warm, cool, tonify, or disperse according to classical principles.
Sǎn jì 散剂 are powdered formulas traditionally taken directly or stirred into warm water. They were most often used to disperse pathogens, release the exterior, and move qì because the light nature of the powdered herb encouraged outward and ascending movement.
While historically only certain formulas were designated as sǎn, modern clinical needs have given rise to a broader application of the sǎn method—retaining classical formulation theory while reducing costs and optimizing patient convenience, compliance, and potency.
What Is the Modern San Method?
The San Method 散法 as practiced today at Root & Branch Medicinary adapts the traditional sǎn approach and applies it to virtually any classical tāng formula. Rather than pulverizing the herbs into fine powder to be ingested whole, the herbs are ground coarsely, preserving their aromatic and functional properties while allowing them to be extracted in water and strained, just like a decoction.
This approach is an evolution built on classical theory, allowing the practitioner to:
Maintain exact classical dosing ratios
Preserve the movement, direction, and relational functions of each herb
Offer patients a potent and more convenient preparation method that aligns with traditional theory while fitting modern life
Dosing Principles
Practitioners write the formula using the daily dosage amounts exactly as they would when prescribing a classical tāng jì 汤剂. These numbers reflect the therapeutic intent and are not adjusted to powder weight. Once the formula is written, the practitioner determines the total daily amount of powder, typically between 35–50 grams per day for an adult, based on:
Patient sensitivity
Strength of pathogenic factor
Depth and nature of the condition
This total daily dosage becomes the reference point for the entire prescription.
Example
If the practitioner determines that the patient should take 40 grams per day for 7 days, the total prescription weight will be 280 grams. HerbaScript™ then calculates the weight of each herb based on its proportion in the classical daily dose.
Preparation Instructions for Patients
The modern San Method is designed to preserve the integrity of classical extraction while offering flexibility in preparation. There are two primary options:
Option 1: Stove Decoction (Short Boil Method)
Place the daily amount of powdered herbs into a small pot.
Add water (typically enough to cover the herbs generously).
Bring to a light boil, then simmer for 8–10 minutes.
Strain the liquid and drink in divided doses throughout the day.
Option 2: Thermos Overnight Extraction (Most Common Method)
Place the daily amount of powder into a well-insulated thermos.
Pour boiling water over the herbs, filling the thermos.
Seal, shake well, and allow the herbs to steep overnight.
In the morning, strain the dregs and drink the herbal liquid throughout the day.
This method preserves the aromatic nature of the herbs, maintains the movement of the formula’s qi, and allows for slow, complete extraction without active cooking.
Why We Like The Modern San Method
Aligned with Classical Principles: The dosing is derived from the tāng method, ensuring the formula expresses its original therapeutic intent.
Flexible in Application: Can be used for dispersing, harmonizing, clearing, or tonifying formulas depending on clinical strategy.
More Convenient for Patients: No prolonged boiling or daily preparation of raw bulk herbs.
Less Expensive than Tang: Usually a Modern San Method formula is about one-third to one-half the price of that the same formula in bulk designed for decoction
Preserves Substance and Spirit: By steeping the whole herb material and straining, the patient receives the essence and function of the herbs in a form that resonates with classical understanding of how medicinals move through the body.
Over the past several years, we have conducted extensive in-clinic testing of the modern sǎn method. While this testing is not exhaustive, the clinical outcomes have been consistent and compelling. Formulas that address the surface of the body, regulate qì 氣, harmonize internal functions, or treat digestive disorders respond especially well to this method. There is also significant promise in the treatment of skin conditions, where the rapid upward and outward movement of the herbs appears advantageous. In cases where the blood is deeply deficient and requires heavy, dark, or sticky tonic substances, the shortened extraction time of this method may present theoretical limitations. However, practitioners using this method regularly have not reported a decline in effectiveness, particularly when compared with granules, which share similar limitations in reaching the deepest yīn levels. The San Method continues to demonstrate strong clinical utility across a wide range of presentations.
HerbaScript™ Bulk-in-Powder Builder
To support this method, HerbaScript™ includes a formula builder specifically called Bulk in Powder. This feature:
Accepts formulas written using daily tāng dosages
Automatically calculates the correct weight of each herb according to practitioner-selected daily powder totals
Maintains classical ratios with precision
This allows practitioners to focus on clinical reasoning rather than manual calculation.
In Summary…
Ee think of the modern San Method 散法 as an embrace of the adaptable, intention-driven spirit of classical herbalism. It honors the foundational theory behind original sǎn 散 and tāng 汤, while providing practitioners and patients with a preparation method that is both powerful and practical.
Root & Branch Medicinary is proud to offer this method as a standard option, supported by precise calculation tools and high-quality herb sourcing—ensuring that every formula remains true to its classical lineage while serving the realities of modern life.