Da Ji has a contraindication in patients with which condition?

• A. SP/ST deficiency
• B. Pregnancy
• C. Excess heat
• D. Yin deficiency

Answer: (A)

Da Ji is a strong purgative with a drying, draining action. Its use can significantly deplete body fluids and qi, so it’s particularly risky when the spleen and stomach aren’t strong. In SP/ST deficiency, the system that transforms and transports fluids and sustains digestion is already weak, and a potent purge can tip the balance toward greater qi deficiency, fatigue, and possible collapse. That’s why this herb is contraindicated in SP/ST deficiency—the weakened digestive function makes the aggressive purgative action too harsh. While pregnancy and yin deficiency can also be concerns with purgatives in general, the scenario that best fits a direct contraindication for Da Ji is SP/ST deficiency.