Traditional Chinese medicine considers gout as bi zheng (painful obstruction syndrome) with damp heat. The presence of damp heat begins with the inability of the Spleen and Stomach to adequately transform and transport food, followed by the accumulation of damp heat blocking the channels and collaterals, leading to severe pain. This correlates with the Western medicine concept of gout, which starts with an improper diet followed by excessive accumulation of uric acid. Therefore, optimal treatment requires herbs to strengthen the Spleen and Stomach, drain damp-heat, open the channels and collaterals, and relieve pain.

In this formula, Cang Zhu (Rhizoma Atractylodis) and Yi Yi Ren (Semen Coicis) strengthen the Spleen and Stomach to resolve dampness and swelling. Jin Qian Cao (Herba Lysimachiae), Ze Xie (Rhizoma Alismatis), and Che Qian Zi (Semen Plantaginis) drain damp-heat and help expel uric acid from the body through urination. Shi Gao (Gypsum Fibrosum), Zhi Mu (Rhizoma Anemarrhenae), Huang Bo (Cortex Phellodendri Chinensis), and Di Huang (Radix Rehmanniae) clear heat and sedate fire. Together they reduce the inflammation and burning sensation. Ji Xue Teng (Caulis Spatholobi) opens the channels and collaterals. Chi Shao (Radix Paeoniae Rubra) activates blood circulation and relieves pain. Lastly, He Zi (Fructus Chebulae) and Wu Bei Zi (Galla Chinensis) are astringent herbs that reduce swelling and inflammation.

In summary, Flex (GT) is a comprehensive formula that targets both the cause and the symptoms of gout. It incorporates herbs to strengthen the Spleen and Stomach, drain damp-heat, open the channels and collaterals, and relieve pain.