Theoretical Connotation and Practice of the Liver-Soothing and Spleen-Fortifying Method in Depression
ZOU Tan
JIANG Li
DING Nana
CHEN Man
WANG Rongyanqi
WANG Yidi
QIU Xingmin
HAO Wenzhi
CHEN Jiaxu
LI Xiaojuan
Abstract：Depression is a common psychological disorder,falling under the category of"depression syndrome"in traditional Chinese medicine(TCM).The two key factors in the pathogenesis of depression are liver dysfunction in regulating Qi flow and spleen dysfunction in transportation and transformation.These factors interact,ultimately forming the fundamental pathogenesis of depression characterized by liver stagnation and spleen deficiency.The liver governs the free flow of Qi,while the spleen governs transportation and transformation.The liver and spleen work in synergy to regulate human emotions and mental states.The liver-soothing and spleen-fortifying method serves as the overarching principle for treating depression.By applying this method,the functions of the liver and spleen can be harmonized,Qi and blood as well as Yin and Yang can be balanced,and Qi activity can be regulated smoothly,thereby achieving therapeutic goals.Xiaoyao San,known for its effects in soothing the liver,relieving stagnation,nourishing blood,and fortifying the spleen,is a classic formula for treating depression under the guidance of formula-syndrome correspondence.This paper,focusing on the TCM treatment of depression,provides a theoretical interpretation of the fundamental pathogenesis of depression and the liver-soothing and spleen-fortifying method.It also summarizes the clinical efficacy and animal studies on the application of Xiaoyao San in treating depression,thereby enriching the scope of application of the liver-soothing and spleen-fortifying method.
Keywords：DepressionXiaoyao SanLiver-soothing and spleen-fortifyingLiver stagnation and spleen deficiency
Publication Date：2026-03-28
Online Publishing Date：2026-03-31(First online date of this platform, not the publication date of the document)
Pages：6( 551-556 )