Xiao Huo Luo Pian invigorates the blood, unblocks the channels, dispels wind and dampness and transforms phlegm to relieve numbness and discomfort. Xiao Huo Luo Pian is also particularly useful in relieving discomfort due to Wind-Cold-Damp obstruction ("Bi syndrome" in TCM). In both cases, symptoms are aggravated by Cold and there is reduced range of motion. Frequently, these symptoms are most severe in the lower body.

The tongue is typically moist and white, reflecting interior cold. Xiao Huo Luo Pian is both warming and dispersing, therefore it is contraindicated in cases of Yin deficiency, weak constitution and pregnancy.

Today, Xiao Huo Luo Pian may be used to provide support for rehab with the appropriate TCM pattern presentation.

Xiao Huo Luo Pian is an important classical formula for releasing Wind, Cold and Dampness from the body and restoring proper physiological function to the channels.

Xiao Huo Luo Pian is composed of six herbal medicinals which powerfully warm the channels and dispel Wind-Cold-Dampness. The chief herbs are Zhi Chuan Wu (prepared mother root of common monkshood) and Zhi Cao Wu (prepared wild monkshood root). Chuan Wu and Cao Wu are among the most effective herbs in the Chinese materia medica for warming the channels and dispersing Cold and Dampness.

Dan Nan Xing (Arisaema pulvis) is a deputy herb in this formula whose primary functions are in dispelling Wind and dissolving Phlegm. Dan Nan Xing is cool in nature and somewhat mitigates the hot nature of the other herbs in the formula.

The two assistant herbs Mo Yao (Myrrh) and Ru Xiang (Boswellia resin) invigorate the blood, relieve discomfort and increase Qi flow in the meridians. Finally, Di Long (Earthworm) opens the channels and extinguishes Wind. Di Long is frequently found in formulas which address Bi / obstruction syndrome as it is extremely effective at unblocking the meridians.