Table 4 Summary of top five most frequently used patent proprietary CHM formulas

Xi-Lei-San (Jiang Su 707 Natural Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd.)

Zhen Zhu, Qing Dai, Niu Huang, Xiang Ya Xie, Hua Shi, Bing Pian

Promote anti-inflammatory, detoxification and granulation

It is indicated for ulcerative colitis that does not heal for a long time with the pattern of dampness-heat of large intestine

3 g q.d for external use enema

48

Yun-Nan-Bai-Yao (Yun Nan Bai Yao Group Co. Ltd.)

San Qi, San Yu Cao, Chuan Shan Long, Huai Shan Yao, Lao Huan Cao, Bai Niu Dan, Ku Liang Jiang

Resolve stasis, stop bleeding, activate blood, relieve pain, remove toxin, and disperse swelling

It is indicated for bleeding of ulcerative colitis

0.25–0.5 g q.i.d for oral use

18

Fu-Fang-Ku-Shen-Jie-Chang-Rong-Jiao-Nang (Bei Jing Zhong Hui Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd.)

Ku Shen, Qing Dai, Di Yu, Bai Ji, Gan Cao

Clear heat and dryness, detoxify and collect sore, cool blood and stop bleeding

It is indicated for ulcerative colitis caused by damp heat of the large intestine

1.6 g t.i.d for oral use

13

Bu-Pi-Yi-Chang-Wan (Guang Zhou Bai Yun Mountain Chen Li Ji Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd.)

Huang Qi, Dang Shen, Bai Zhu, Sha Ren, Bai Shao, Rou Gui, Gan Jiang, Mu Xiang, Yan Hu Suo, Bu Gu Zhi, Chi Shi Zhi, Fang Feng

Nourish qi and blood, warm yang qi, astringent bowel and antidiarrheal

It is indicated for ulcerative colitis that does not heal for a long time due to deficiency of spleen and stomach

6 g t.i.d for oral use

7

Shen-Ling-Bai-Zhu-San (Yun Nan Bai Yao Group Co. Ltd.)

Ren Shen, Fu Ling, Bai Zhu, Shan Yao, Bai Bian Dou, Lian Zi, Yi Yi Ren, Sha Ren, Jie Geng, Gan Cao

Tonify spleen and stomach, and invigorate lung qi

It is indicated for ulcerative colitis patients with indigestion or other symptoms caused by spleen-stomach weakness

6-9 g t.i.d/b.i.d for oral use

7