INGREDIENTS

Each pill contains the equiv. to dry:

Chaste Tree, fruit 51.8mg

Szechuan Lovage, root 46.6mg

Jingjie, herb 46.6mg

Holy Ghost, root 46.6mg

Notopterygium, root 46.6mg

Chinese Lovage, root 46.6mg

Siler, root 46.6mg

Mint, leaf 15.5mg

Camellia, leaf 15.5mg

Licorice, root 15.5mg

 

 

Store below 30°C

Contains 200 x 200mg pills.

AUSTL 324479

Manufactured In Australia.

 

Indications: headache, tension headache, migraine headache, cold & flu headache.

Actions: gets rid of headaches and migraines by thinning and moving the blood.

Dosage: 10 - 15 pills 2 - 3 times per day as symptoms return. May use double doses.

Over use don’t under use. Treat sooner rather than later. Take near food.

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Chuan Xiong Cha Tiao San – "Headaches & Migraines"

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A classical Chinese herbal formula traditionally used to relieve headaches and migraines, particularly those triggered by tension, weather changes or the early stages of respiratory illness.

 

What is Chuan Xiong Cha Tiao San?

 

Headaches are among the most common reasons people seek healthcare.

Some are dull and constant.

Others throb intensely.

Some begin in the neck before spreading over the scalp.

Others are triggered by stress, sinus congestion or changes in the weather.

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Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) recognised that not all headaches are the same.

The location, quality and trigger of the pain provide important clues to the underlying cause.

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Chuan Xiong Cha Tiao San (川芎茶调散) was developed specifically to treat headaches caused by Wind, tension and impaired circulation in the head and neck.

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At Chiron Medical we call it "Headaches & Migraines", because these are the symptoms for which it has been trusted for centuries.

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Rather than simply dulling pain, the formula aims to restore healthy circulation and relieve the underlying pattern contributing to the headache.

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A Formula with More Than 800 Years of History

Chuan Xiong Cha Tiao San was first recorded in the Tai Ping Hui Min He Ji Ju Fang (Imperial Grace Formulary of the Tai Ping Era) during the Song Dynasty in the 12th century.

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It quickly became one of the most widely prescribed formulas for headaches caused by external Wind, particularly those involving the back of the head, temples and top of the skull.

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Today it remains one of Chinese medicine's most important formulas for acute headaches and migraines.

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Why We Call It "Headaches & Migraines"

 

Headaches have many causes.

Chinese medicine focuses on recognising the pattern.

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This formula is traditionally considered when headaches are associated with:

• tension

• neck stiffness

• migraines

• sinus congestion

• weather changes

• early colds

• wind exposure

• stress

 

Patients often describe:

• pain at the back of the head

• temple headaches

• one-sided headaches

• pain that moves

• headaches made worse by wind

 

What Is It Traditionally Used For?

Traditionally, Chuan Xiong Cha Tiao San is prescribed for Wind attacking the head with obstruction of Qi and Blood circulation.

 

Headaches

• tension headaches

• migraines (pattern dependent)

• occipital headaches

• temporal headaches

• vertex headaches

 

Early Respiratory Illness

• headache during the early stages of a cold

• headache with sinus congestion

• headache with chills

 

Neck and Upper Back

Frequently prescribed when headaches are accompanied by:

• neck stiffness

• shoulder tension

• upper cervical tightness

 

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The Herbs That Make the Formula

 

The head is one of the most highly supplied organs in the body. Every second it relies on healthy circulation, relaxed muscles and clear pathways for blood, nerves and sinus drainage.

 

When those systems become congested, irritated or restricted, headaches often follow.

Chuan Xiong Cha Tiao San works like a skilled traffic controller. Some herbs improve circulation, others relax tight muscles, several calm inflammation, while each specialises in relieving pain from different regions of the head. Together they restore healthy movement and help the head function comfortably again.

 

Chuan Xiong (Szechuan Lovage Rhizome)

 

Traditional Role

Chuan Xiong is the conductor of the formula. It invigorates circulation throughout the head and neck, helping relieve headaches caused by muscular tension, impaired blood flow and long-standing congestion. Traditionally regarded as one of Chinese medicine's premier headache herbs, it is especially valuable for migraines, recurrent headaches and pain that becomes fixed or worsens with stress.

 

Biomedical Role

Modern research suggests Chuan Xiong improves cerebral blood flow while reducing inflammatory signalling involved in headache disorders. Studies have demonstrated analgesic, antioxidant and vascular protective effects together with inhibition of platelet aggregation and improved microcirculation.

 

Bo He (Mint)

 

Traditional Role

Bo He opens the windows. Its light, cooling nature disperses Heat and tension from the head, temples and eyes, bringing relief to headaches that feel hot, heavy or pressure-filled. It also refreshes the senses and helps clear the fogginess that often accompanies acute headaches.

 

Biomedical Role

Research suggests Mint possesses mild analgesic, cooling anti-inflammatory and smooth muscle relaxing properties that contribute to headache relief while helping reduce muscular tension.

 

Jing Jie (Schizonepeta)

 

Traditional Role

Jing Jie helps lift the weight from the head. It gently disperses the early stages of external illness while easing headaches associated with muscular tightness, superficial inflammation and exposure to wind or changing weather. It is particularly useful when headache accompanies the early stages of a cold.

 

Biomedical Role

Studies demonstrate anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and immunomodulatory activity that supports the body's response to inflammatory headache states.

 

Fang Feng (Saposhnikovia)

 

Traditional Role

Fang Feng is the body's windscreen. It protects the head and neck from external triggers while relieving pain caused by wind, cold and muscle tension. Traditionally it is prescribed when headaches seem to come and go, move from place to place or are aggravated by weather changes.

 

Biomedical Role

Experimental research suggests analgesic, anti-inflammatory and cytokine regulating effects consistent with its long-standing use in painful musculoskeletal conditions.

 

Qiang Huo (Notopterygium)

 

Traditional Role

Qiang Huo specialises in the back roads. It targets headaches that begin in the neck and climb over the back of the head, relaxing stiff muscles while restoring comfortable movement through the upper cervical spine. It is particularly useful when headaches develop after prolonged posture, cold exposure or muscular strain.

 

Biomedical Role

Research demonstrates anti-inflammatory, analgesic and muscle relaxing activity that supports relief of cervicogenic and tension-related headaches.

 

Bai Zhi (Angelica dahurica)

 

Traditional Role

Bai Zhi clears the front door. It specialises in headaches across the forehead, around the eyes and through the sinuses where congestion has built pressure. It also opens the nasal passages, making it invaluable when headache is accompanied by blocked sinuses, facial pain or heavy nasal congestion.

 

Biomedical Role

Studies suggest analgesic, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects together with support for healthy sinus drainage and reduction of upper respiratory inflammation.

 

Xi Xin (Asarum)

 

Traditional Role

Xi Xin reaches the deepest corners. It penetrates stubborn headaches that feel deeply seated, cold or resistant to other treatments, particularly when pain is accompanied by sinus congestion or facial pressure. Although used in only small amounts, it provides important depth to the prescription.

 

Biomedical Role

Experimental research demonstrates analgesic and anti-inflammatory activity. Modern clinical use should only involve approved, quality-controlled preparations that comply with Australian regulatory standards regarding aristolochic acid contamination.

 

Gan Cao (Liquorice Root)

 

Traditional Role

Gan Cao keeps the orchestra playing together. It harmonises the actions of the other herbs, moderates their stronger properties and protects the digestive system, ensuring the formula remains both balanced and well tolerated.

 

Biomedical Role

Liquorice possesses anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, immunomodulatory and gastroprotective properties that improve the safety, tolerability and overall effectiveness of the prescription.

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Why These Herbs Work Together

Headaches rarely have a single cause.

 

Tight neck muscles alter blood flow. Inflamed sinuses increase pressure. Sensitive nerves amplify pain, while inflammation and vascular changes maintain the cycle long after the original trigger has passed.

 

Chuan Xiong Cha Tiao San restores healthy movement throughout these interconnected systems. Chuan Xiong improves circulation to the head, while Qiang Huo and Bai Zhi target headaches arising from the back and front of the head respectively. Bo He cools and relieves pressure, Fang Feng and Jing Jie calm inflammation and muscular tension, while Xi Xin addresses deeper, persistent pain. Gan Cao harmonises the prescription and improves overall tolerability.

 

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, the formula disperses Wind, improves circulation and relieves pain affecting the head and neck. It has long been used for tension headaches, migraines, sinus headaches and headaches following exposure to wind or cold.

 

From a modern biomedical perspective, the constituent herbs have demonstrated anti-inflammatory, analgesic, vascular protective and neurovascular regulatory actions together with effects supporting healthy cerebral circulation, muscular relaxation and modulation of inflammatory pain pathways.

 

Rather than simply masking pain, Chuan Xiong Cha Tiao San helps restore the healthy circulation, muscle function and neurological balance that allow headaches to resolve naturally.

 

What Does Modern Research Say?

Research into the constituent herbs has investigated:

 

Headache Disorders

• tension-type headaches

• migraine

• cervicogenic headache

 

Pain Regulation

Studies suggest effects involving:

• inflammatory cytokines

• nitric oxide pathways

• vascular regulation

• oxidative stress

 

Circulation

Several herbs have demonstrated:

• improved microcirculation

• endothelial protection

• reduction of vascular inflammation

 

Although further high-quality clinical trials are needed, the pharmacology of the constituent herbs aligns closely with their traditional indications.

 

Not Every Headache Is the Same

One of the strengths of Chinese medicine is recognising that different headaches require different treatment.

A migraine triggered by hormonal changes...

is different from...

a sinus headache.

A tension headache...

is different from...

a headache caused by high blood pressure.

Correct diagnosis is always the first step.

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Comparing the Chiron Medical Pain & Inflammation Formulas

 

Chuan Xiong Cha Tiao San - Headaches & Migraines - Tension headaches, migraines and Wind-related headaches - Improves circulation and relieves head pain

Huo Luo Xiao Ling Dan - Sharp Stabbing Pain - Fixed pain due to Blood Stasis - Improves circulation and relieves severe pain

Shao Yao Gan Cao Tang - Spasms & Cramps - Muscle cramps and spasm - Relaxes muscles and tendons

Long Dan Xie Gan Tang - Liver Fire - Headaches with red eyes, irritability and Heat - Clears inflammatory Heat

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For Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioners

 

Classical Pattern

External Wind affecting the head with Qi and Blood obstruction

 

Typical presentation:

• headache

• neck stiffness

• aversion to wind

• mild chills

• floating pulse

• thin white tongue coating

 

Formula Strategy

Chuan Xiong Cha Tiao San:

• Expels Wind.

• Invigorates Blood.

• Moves Qi.

• Relieves headache.

• Opens the channels.

 

Common Clinical Modifications

Frequently adapted for:

• migraine

• cervicogenic headache

• tension headache

• sinus headache

• headache during early respiratory infection

 

For Medical Doctors

 

Proposed Biomedical Actions

Current research suggests the constituent herbs influence:

• cerebral blood flow

• inflammatory cytokines

• neurogenic inflammation

• vascular endothelial function

• oxidative stress

• nociceptive pain pathways

 

Major bioactive compounds include:

• ligustilide

• ferulic acid

• menthol

• chromones

• flavonoids

• glycyrrhizin

 

Collectively these compounds demonstrate analgesic, anti-inflammatory, vasoregulatory and neuroprotective properties.

 

Potential Herb–Drug Considerations

 

Clinical monitoring is advisable in patients taking:

• anticoagulants

• antiplatelet medications

• migraine medications

• antihypertensive medications

• NSAIDs

 

Patients presenting with a sudden severe ("thunderclap") headache, new neurological symptoms, fever with neck stiffness, altered consciousness, headache after head injury or new headaches after the age of 50 require urgent medical assessment before considering herbal treatment.

 

Looking Beyond the Pain

A headache is not a diagnosis.

It is a signal.

Sometimes it reflects muscular tension.

Sometimes poor circulation.

Sometimes inflammation.

Sometimes something far more serious.

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Chuan Xiong Cha Tiao San reminds us that successful treatment begins with understanding why the headache has developed.

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That is why we call it "Headaches & Migraines."

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For centuries it has helped restore comfortable movement, healthy circulation and relief from one of humanity's most common complaints.

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Key Takeaways

• Chuan Xiong Cha Tiao San is a classical Chinese herbal formula first recorded during the Song Dynasty for headaches caused by Wind and impaired circulation.

• At Chiron Medical it is called "Headaches & Migraines" because it is traditionally prescribed for tension headaches, migraines, sinus headaches and headaches associated with neck stiffness.

• It combines herbs that improve circulation, reduce inflammation, relax muscle tension and support healthy cerebral blood flow.

• Modern research supports analgesic, anti-inflammatory, vasoregulatory and neuroprotective actions of its constituent herbs.

• The formula should be prescribed by a qualified Chinese medicine practitioner after an individual assessment. New, severe or unusual headaches always require prompt medical evaluation to exclude serious underlying conditions.

 

Clinical Perspective

Within the Chiron Medical pain collection, Chuan Xiong Cha Tiao San ("Headaches & Migraines") is the specialist formula for pain affecting the head and upper neck. Unlike Huo Luo Xiao Ling Dan ("Sharp Stabbing Pain"), which targets fixed Blood Stasis pain throughout the body, or Shao Yao Gan Cao Tang ("Spasms & Cramps"), which relaxes muscular spasm, Chuan Xiong Cha Tiao San focuses on restoring healthy circulation and relieving obstruction in the head. When headaches are accompanied by obvious inflammatory Heat—such as red eyes, facial flushing or marked irritability—Long Dan Xie Gan Tang ("Liver Fire") may be more appropriate. This pattern-based approach is one of the defining strengths of Traditional Chinese Medicine: recognising that the location, quality and trigger of a headache are often just as important as the headache itself.

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Clinical Insights

 

Chronic Headaches Associated with Healthy Ageing

Some chronic headaches develop gradually over many years as circulation changes and the body's deeper restorative systems become less resilient.

For these patients, combine with:

• Tremor & Trembles (Tian Ma Gou Teng Wan) when chronic headaches are accompanied by dizziness, neck tension or signs consistent with declining neurological and vascular regulation.

Together these formulas improve circulation while helping stabilise the physiological processes that contribute to recurrent headaches.

 

Chronic Headaches & Migraine

Migraine is far more than a severe headache. It involves altered neurovascular function, inflammation and increased sensitivity of the nervous system. Between attacks, restoring healthy circulation may help reduce the frequency and persistence of symptoms.

Chuan Xiong Cha Tiao San combines particularly well with:

• Tao Hong Si Wu Wan when longstanding circulatory congestion, previous injury or chronic tissue stagnation appears to be contributing to recurrent migraine.

Together these formulas restore healthy circulation while supporting tissue repair and vascular resilience.

 

Sinus Headaches

Blocked sinus drainage commonly produces pressure across the forehead, cheeks and behind the eyes. Simply relieving pain often leaves the underlying congestion unchanged.

Combine with:

• Hayfever (Xin Yi San) when sinus congestion, nasal blockage and facial pressure are the primary drivers of headache.

This combination improves sinus drainage while relieving inflammation and restoring comfortable airflow.

 

Headaches Following Trauma

Headaches that persist after concussion, whiplash or head injury often reflect more than the initial injury. Lingering inflammation, altered circulation and soft tissue dysfunction may continue long after healing should have occurred.

For post-traumatic headaches, combine with:

• Sharp Stabbing Pain (Huo Luo Xiao Ling Dan) to improve circulation, reduce persistent inflammation and support healthy tissue repair.

Together these formulas address both the ongoing pain and the physiological recovery of injured tissues, making them particularly valuable during the rehabilitation phase following head or neck trauma.