If you are an average American, you probably eat more than you should. We are surrounded by an abundance of delicious junk food, and tend to have a good appetite. When we go to a party, buffet, or a celebration, chances are we will overeat. Overeating often results in bloating, food retention, along with belching, burping and gas.

Bao He Pian is a Chinese herbal supplement recommended for aiding digestion, whether after a big meal or other cases involving food stagnation.^† Bao He Pian is formulated to contain 3 sets of Chinese herbs that address 3 different aspects of digestion including food stagnation, Phlegm, and Heat.

Set 1. Chinese herbs that support digestion and remove food residues. These include Shan Zha (Hawthorn), Shen Qu (Medicated Leaven), Lai Fu Zi (Radish Seed), and Mai Ya (Barley Sprout). Hawthorn is a well known Chinese herb that breaks down meats and fatty food. Medicated Leaven is good at clearing alcoholic food. Radish Seed is good at breaking down carbohydrate foods like rice and bread. Radish Seed also eliminates gas. Barley Sprout helps digest milk products.

Set 2. Chinese herbs that remove phlegm. In TCM, food stagnation will cause accumulation of phlegm or unwanted metabolic byproducts. So it is also necessary to clear away phlegm and damp. This is achieved by Zhi Shi (Immature Bitter Orange) and Chen Pi (Tangerine peel), two Chinese herbs that expel phlegm. The latter also breaks up accumulation. Moreover, Fu Ling (Poria) is added to remove Dampness and strengthen the digestive function at the same time.

Set 3. Chinese herbs that clears heat. In TCM, food retention also generates heat, which is why it is associated with a burning sensation. For this reason, Lian Qiao (Forsythia) is included in the Bao He Pian formula. Forsythia is a major Chinese herb that clears heat.