Therapeutic Potential of a Modified Gui-Zhi 
( Cinnamomi ramulus ) and Shao-Yao ( Paeoniae 
radix Alba ) Decoction for Postcolonoscopy Pain: 
A Herbal Acupoint Application Study

Background and Purpose Gui-Zhi ( Cinnamomi ramulus ) and Shao-Yao ( Paeoniae radix Alba ) are traditional Chinese medicinal herbs with well-documented analgesic and antispasmodic properties. This study explores the efficacy of a modified herbal decoction comprising these two herbs applied via acupoint therapy to alleviate postcolonoscopy pain (PCP). Materials and Methods In this randomized cohort trial, 60 patients undergoing colonoscopy were divided into a control group (standard care) and a treatment group (standard care combined with acupoint application of the modified Gui-Zhi and Shao-Yao decoction). The visual analog scale (VAS) and Modified Gloucester Comfort Scale (MGCS) were used to evaluate pain and discomfort at 1-, 6-, and 24-h postprocedure, respectively. Results The treatment group demonstrated significantly lower VAS scores at all time points compared to the control group ( p < .05), with rapid improvement in comfort levels. Enhanced borborygmus at 6-h postprocedure further suggested restoration of gastrointestinal motility. No significant changes in blood pressure or heart rate were observed. Conclusion The acupoint application of a modified decoction containing Gui-Zhi and Shao-Yao offers a promising plant-based therapeutic approach to PCP management, aligning with pharmacognosy principles. Its efficacy and safety merit further investigation in clinical herbal medicine.