Cold Extremities in Traditional Chinese Medicine
Understanding different cold extremities patterns according to TCM theory
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Condition Categories
Condition Categories
Cold extremities, a common ailment experienced by many, refers to a noticeable chill or lack of warmth in the hands and feet, which can sometimes extend to the arms and legs. This condition is more than just a temporary reaction to cold weather; for some, it is a persistent feeling that can affect their daily life.
The synonyms, including chilly hands and feet, cold sensation in extremities, and extremities cold sensation, all describe this uncomfortable state, highlighting its prevalence across different populations.
From the perspective of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), cold extremities are not just a superficial symptom but an indication of deeper imbalances within the body's energetic systems.
TCM interprets this condition as potentially stemming from a Deficiency of Qi (life force), or imbalance between Yin and Yang energy, leading to a failure to adequately warm and nourish the body's extremities. This holistic view emphasizes the interconnectedness of internal organ functions and the flow of Qi throughout the body.
TCM Patterns for Cold Extremities
Cold
Congeals body fluids, damages Yang Qi, and causes pain with fixed location
Causes: Cold extremities, Cold hands and feet, Cold limbs
Cold is the predominant pathogenic factor of winter in Traditional Chinese Medicine. Cold represents an environmental pathogen that, when excessive, causes disease characterized by its cold, congealing, and contracting nature. While Cold is the main pathogen of winter, it can cause illness in any season through exposure to cold temperatures, getting caught in rain, sweating followed by wind exposure, or excessive air conditioning.
Wind-Cold invading with Yang Deficiency
Cold extremities
Along with: Low grade fever, Severe chills, Exhaustion, Hypersomnia, Lumbar pain, Lower back pain, Lower back coldness, General cold feeling, Lack of sweating, Headaches, Weak voice
Cold in the Uterus
Cold hands and feet, Cold limbs
Along with: Diarrhea, Loss of appetite, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Thin vaginal discharge
Stagnation of Cold in the Liver Channel
Cold hands and feet
Along with: Hypochondrial fullness and distention with pain alleviated by warmth, Testicular pain, Scrotal contraction, Vertical headaches, Chills, Cold extremities, Vomiting clear liquid, Vaginal atrophy
Cold invading the Stomach
Cold limbs
Along with: Severe upper abdominal pain, Chills, Cold extremities, Desire for hot beverages and foods, Vomiting clear liquid, Nausea, Feeling worse after drinking cold drinks
Cold-Phlegm
Cold limbs
Along with: White and watery sputum, Stifling sensation in the chest, Cold extremities, Nausea, Loss of appetite
Damp-Cold
Cold limbs
Along with: Mouth ulcers, White and watery sputum, Nasal discharge, Sneezing, Chills, Abdominal pain, Cold extremities, Arthralgia, Diarrhea, Feeling of heaviness
Empty-Cold
Cold limbs
Along with: Chills, Cold extremities, Pale face, Absence of thirst, Apathy, Excessive sweating, Diarrhea, Clear urination, Frequent urination
Large Intestine Cold
Cold limbs
Along with: Diarrhea, Abdominal pain, Borborygmi, Clear urination, Cold extremities
Lesser Yin Cold Transformation
Cold limbs
Along with: Chills, Diarrhea, Absence of thirst, Desire to lie down curled up, Apathy, Hypersomnia, Cold extremities, Frequent pale urination
Small Intestine Deficient and Cold
Cold limbs
Along with: Borborygmi, Abdominal pain relieved by pressure or eating, Craving for hot beverages, Diarrhea, Pale and abudant urination, Cold extremities
Yang Deficiency with Cold-Damp
Cold extremities
Along with: Body pain, Bone and joint pain, Absence of thirst, Aversion to cold, Migraine, Cluster headache, Trigeminal neuralgia, Piriformis syndrome, Rheumatoid arthritis, Cervical spondylosis
Exterior Cold invading the Interior
Cold hands and feet
Along with: Abdominal pain, Constipation, Hypochondriac pain, Chills, Low grade fever, Cold extremities, Sweating that doesn't reduce fever, Epigastric palpitations, Dizziness, Twitching
Yang Deficiency
Insufficient yang qi causing coldness, fatigue, and diminished physiological functions throughout the body
Causes: Cold extremities, Cold hands and feet, Cold limbs
Yang Deficiency represents a fundamental weakness of the body's yang qi in Traditional Chinese Medicine. It manifests as an inability to warm the body, transform substances, and maintain normal physiological activities, resulting in various cold-type symptoms and functional decline.
Wind-Cold invading with Yang Deficiency
Cold extremities
Along with: Low grade fever, Severe chills, Exhaustion, Hypersomnia, Lumbar pain, Lower back pain, Lower back coldness, General cold feeling, Lack of sweating, Headaches, Weak voice
Kidney Yang Deficiency
Cold extremities, Cold hands and feet, Cold limbs
Along with: Lower back pain, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Weak and cold knees, Lower back coldness, Chills, Weak legs, Bright pale face, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Leg edema, Female infertility, Diarrhea, Depression, Erectile dysfunction, Premature ejaculation, Oligospermia, Low sex drive, Pale and abudant urination, Constipation
Lesser Yin Cold Transformation
Cold limbs
Along with: Chills, Diarrhea, Absence of thirst, Desire to lie down curled up, Apathy, Hypersomnia, Cold extremities, Frequent pale urination
Lung Yang Deficiency
Cold limbs
Along with: Coughing and wheezing with copious sputum, Cold extremities, Spontaneous sweat, Frequent colds or flu, Pale face, Generalized fatigue, Shortness of breath, Absence of thirst, Wheezing, Weak voice
Spleen Yang Deficiency
Cold limbs
Along with: Slight abdominal distension after eating, General weakness, Desire to lie down curled up, Pale face, Cold extremities, Chills, Undigested food in stools, Excessive gas and flatulence, Bloated abdomen, Abdominal pain relieved by pressure and warmth, Dull shallow face
Stomach Yang Deficient and Cold
Cold limbs
Along with: Epigastric pain relieved with pressure or eating, Loss of appetite, Desire for hot beverages and foods, Vomiting clear liquid, Absence of thirst, Weak limbs, Cold extremities, Generalized fatigue, Pale face
Yang Deficiency or Empty Yang
Cold limbs
Along with: Chills, General cold feeling, Pale urine, Undigested food in stools, General weakness, Abdominal pain relieved by pressure and warmth, Frequent urination, Polyuria, Nocturia, White vaginal discharge
Yang Deficiency with Cold-Damp
Cold extremities
Along with: Body pain, Bone and joint pain, Absence of thirst, Aversion to cold, Migraine, Cluster headache, Trigeminal neuralgia, Piriformis syndrome, Rheumatoid arthritis, Cervical spondylosis
Spleen and Kidney Yang Deficiency
Cold extremities
Along with: Pale face, Facial edema, Oedema of limbs, Abdominal distention, Shortness of breath, Diarrhea, Frequent urination, Lupus
Deficiency of both the Kidney Yin and Yang
Cold hands and feet
Along with: Menopausal symptoms, Hypertension, Irregular periods, Menopausal hot flashes, Excessive sweating, Irritability, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Depression, Palpitations
Qi Deficiency
Insufficient vital energy causing fatigue, weakness, poor digestion, and reduced function of organs and protective systems
Causes: Cold limbs
Qi Deficiency is a fundamental pattern in Traditional Chinese Medicine where the body's vital energy is insufficient to maintain normal physiological functions, leading to weakness, fatigue, and various organ dysfunctions.
Qi Deficiency
Cold limbs
Along with: General weakness, Weak voice, Generalized fatigue, Apathy, Dislike of speaking, Spontaneous sweat, Frequent colds or flu, Loss of appetite, Diarrhea, Shortness of breath
Kidney Qi not Firm
Cold limbs
Along with: Lower back pain, Lower back weakness, Polyuria, Weak urine stream, Enuresis, Nocturnal emission, Generalized fatigue, Chills, Cold extremities, White vaginal discharge, Bearing down sensation in abdomen, Recurrent miscarriage
Spleen Deficiency
Cold limbs
Along with: Sticky vaginal discharge, Generalized fatigue, Depression, Cold extremities, Diarrhea, White vaginal discharge, Loss of appetite, Amenorrhea, Dull shallow face, Weak limbs
Dampness
Heavy, sticky moisture that obstructs body functions and creates sluggishness
Causes: Cold limbs, Cold extremities
Dampness manifests as swelling, bloating, a feeling of heaviness in the head and limbs, and digestive issues. It's like having waterlogged tissues that make everything feel heavy and slow. Common signs include a thick, greasy tongue coating, sticky mouth sensation, and stools that are difficult to flush.
Damp-Cold
Cold limbs
Along with: Mouth ulcers, White and watery sputum, Nasal discharge, Sneezing, Chills, Abdominal pain, Cold extremities, Arthralgia, Diarrhea, Feeling of heaviness
Oedema
Cold limbs
Along with: Abdominal edema, Ankle edema, Facial edema, Foot edema, Oedema of hands, Leg edema, Ocular swelling, Abdominal distention
Yang Deficiency with Cold-Damp
Cold extremities
Along with: Body pain, Bone and joint pain, Absence of thirst, Aversion to cold, Migraine, Cluster headache, Trigeminal neuralgia, Piriformis syndrome, Rheumatoid arthritis, Cervical spondylosis
Yin Deficiency
Depletion of cooling, moistening fluids causing dryness, false heat rising, and restless agitation throughout the body
Causes: Cold hands and feet, Cold limbs
Yin Deficiency represents a fundamental pattern in Traditional Chinese Medicine where the body's yin fluids - blood, essence, and body fluids - become depleted, losing their ability to cool, moisten, and anchor the yang energy, resulting in relative hyperactivity of yang and internal heat manifestations.
Deficiency of both the Kidney Yin and Yang
Cold hands and feet
Along with: Menopausal symptoms, Hypertension, Irregular periods, Menopausal hot flashes, Excessive sweating, Irritability, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Depression, Palpitations
Kidney-Deficiency
Cold limbs
Along with: Scanty menstruation, Pale menstrual flow, Back pain, Knee pain, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Frequent urination, Late menstruation, Chills, Cold extremities
Phlegm
Thick, sticky pathological fluid that obstructs body functions and can manifest anywhere in the body
Causes: Cold limbs
Phlegm is both a pathological product and a pathogenic factor in Traditional Chinese Medicine. It results from impaired fluid metabolism when the body's transformative functions fail, particularly affecting the Spleen, Lungs, and Kidneys. Classical texts emphasize that "the Spleen is the source of phlegm production, while the Lungs are the storage vessel for phlegm."
Cold-Phlegm
Cold limbs
Along with: White and watery sputum, Stifling sensation in the chest, Cold extremities, Nausea, Loss of appetite
Oedema
Cold limbs
Along with: Abdominal edema, Ankle edema, Facial edema, Foot edema, Oedema of hands, Leg edema, Ocular swelling, Abdominal distention
Qi Stagnation
Blocked or disrupted flow of vital energy causing distending pain, emotional distress, and symptoms that worsen with stress
Causes: Cold limbs
Qi Stagnation is a fundamental pathological pattern in Traditional Chinese Medicine where the smooth flow of vital energy becomes obstructed, creating areas of pressure, pain, and dysfunction throughout the body.
Heart Qi Stagnation
Cold limbs
Along with: Palpitations, Chest distension, Stifling sensation in the chest, Depression
Pericardium Qi Stagnation
Cold limbs
Along with: Mild chest pain, Chest distension, Stifling sensation in the chest, Sighing, Throat lumps, Palpitations, Depression, Irritability, Loss of appetite, Weak limbs, Cold extremities
Blood Stasis
Blood that is no longer flowing smoothly through the vessels
Causes: Cold hands and feet
Blood Stasis represents blood that is no longer flowing smoothly through the vessels, either moving too slowly, pooling in certain areas, or congealing into clots. It's one of the most important pathological conditions in Traditional Chinese Medicine and can be both a result of disease and a cause of further illness.
Heart Vessel obstructed
Cold hands and feet
Along with: Palpitations, Shortness of breath, Depression, Restlessness, Stifling sensation in the chest, Heart pain, Chest pain, Sputum, Feeling of heaviness, Dislike of speaking, Cold extremities, Sighing, Purple lips, Purple nails, Purple face
Yang Collapse
Sudden, catastrophic loss of yang energy causing systemic shutdown with cold sweating, frozen extremities, and consciousness fading
Causes: Cold limbs
Yang Collapse represents the most critical yang deficiency pattern in Traditional Chinese Medicine - a life-threatening condition where the body's yang energy suddenly and massively depletes, leading to systemic functional failure.
Collapse of Yang
Cold limbs
Along with: Apathy, Chills, Cold extremities, Bright pale face, Sweating on forehead, Absence of thirst, Urinary or fecal incontinence, Frequent urination, Diarrhea
Qi Sinking
Weakened lifting force causing downward bearing sensations, organ prolapse, and inability to hold things in their proper position
Causes: Cold limbs
Qi Sinking represents a progression from Spleen Qi deficiency in Traditional Chinese Medicine, where the spleen's essential lifting function fails, causing various downward symptoms and organ displacement.
Large Intestine collapse
Cold limbs
Along with: Chronic diarrhea, Anus prolapse, Hemorrhoids, Generalized fatigue, Cold extremities, Loss of appetite, Mental exhaustion, Craving for hot beverages
Yin Excess
Pathological accumulation of cold, heavy substances causing stagnation, obstruction, and suppression of yang energy with internal cold manifestations
Causes: Cold limbs
Yin Excess represents patterns in Traditional Chinese Medicine where yin-natured pathological substances - cold, phlegm, dampness, and fluids - accumulate excessively in the body, overwhelming yang energy and causing obstruction, stagnation, and cold manifestations throughout the system.
Yin Excess
Cold limbs
Along with: Absence of thirst, Slow and forceful movement, Epigastric pain worsen by pressure, Polyuria, Feeling of chest oppression, Nausea, Excessive vaginal discharge, Loss of appetite, Pain relieved by heat, Chills, Cold extremities, Pale urine
Wind
Causes sudden symptoms, movement disorders, and serves as the vehicle for other pathogens
Causes: Cold extremities
Wind is the predominant pathogenic factor of spring in Traditional Chinese Medicine and is considered the leader of the six external pathogens. Wind is described as "the leader of the hundred diseases" (百病之长), serving as the primary factor in external pathogenic invasions. Wind represents a pathogen characterized by constant movement, changeability, and a tendency to affect the upper and outer portions of the body.
Wind-Cold invading with Yang Deficiency
Cold extremities
Along with: Low grade fever, Severe chills, Exhaustion, Hypersomnia, Lumbar pain, Lower back pain, Lower back coldness, General cold feeling, Lack of sweating, Headaches, Weak voice
Heat
Intense, ascending pathogenic force that consumes body fluids, disturbs the mind, and accelerates all physiological processes
Causes: Cold hands and feet
Heat is a major pathogenic factor in Traditional Chinese Medicine that can arise from external invasion or internal generation. Heat has the characteristics of burning intensity, rising upward, consuming qi and fluids, and generating wind and disturbing blood. In TCM philosophy, normal physiological warmth is called "minor fire" (少火) which maintains life functions, while pathological heat is "major fire" (壮火) which damages the body.
Heat in Pericardium
Cold hands and feet
Along with: Nighttime fever, Delirium, Confusion, Incoherent or confused speech, Cold extremities
Herbal Formulas for Cold Extremities
Traditional Chinese Medicine formulas used to address cold extremities
Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Tonifies the Middle and Augments Qi
- Raises sunken Yang
- Lifts Sunken Qi
- Strengthens the Spleen
- Clears Heat from deficiency (sweet-warm method)
Addresses These Cold Extremities Pattern Variations
Qi Deficiency
How it manifests:
Cold limbs
Accompanying symptoms:
General weakness, Weak voice, Generalized fatigue, Apathy, Dislike of speaking, Spontaneous sweat...
Spleen Deficiency
How it manifests:
Cold limbs
Accompanying symptoms:
Sticky vaginal discharge, Generalized fatigue, Depression, Cold extremities, Diarrhea, White vaginal discharge...
Large Intestine collapse
How it manifests:
Cold limbs
Accompanying symptoms:
Chronic diarrhea, Anus prolapse, Hemorrhoids, Generalized fatigue, Cold extremities, Loss of appetite...
Spleen Yang Deficiency
How it manifests:
Cold limbs
Accompanying symptoms:
Slight abdominal distension after eating, General weakness, Desire to lie down curled up, Pale face, Cold extremities, Chills...
You Gui Wan
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Tonifies Kidney Yang
- Benefits Essence and Fills the Marrow
- Warms the Ming Men Fire
- Nourishes Blood
- Strengthens the Sinews and Bones
Addresses These Cold Extremities Pattern Variations
Kidney Yang Deficiency
How it manifests:
Cold extremities, Cold hands and feet, Cold limbs
Accompanying symptoms:
Lower back pain, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Weak and cold knees, Lower back coldness, Chills...
Kidney-Deficiency
How it manifests:
Cold limbs
Accompanying symptoms:
Scanty menstruation, Pale menstrual flow, Back pain, Knee pain, Dizziness, Tinnitus...
Kidney Qi not Firm
How it manifests:
Cold limbs
Accompanying symptoms:
Lower back pain, Lower back weakness, Polyuria, Weak urine stream, Enuresis, Nocturnal emission...
Yang Deficiency or Empty Yang
How it manifests:
Cold limbs
Accompanying symptoms:
Chills, General cold feeling, Pale urine, Undigested food in stools, General weakness, Abdominal pain relieved by pressure and warmth...
Wu Ling San
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Promotes Urination and Drains Dampness
- Warms Yang and Transforms Qi
- Releases the Exterior
- Supplements Earth to Control Water
- Resolves Phlegm-Fluid Retention
Addresses These Cold Extremities Pattern Variations
Spleen and Kidney Yang Deficiency
How it manifests:
Cold extremities
Accompanying symptoms:
Pale face, Facial edema, Oedema of limbs, Abdominal distention, Shortness of breath, Diarrhea...
Oedema
How it manifests:
Cold limbs
Accompanying symptoms:
Abdominal edema, Ankle edema, Facial edema, Foot edema, Oedema of hands, Leg edema...
Yin Excess
How it manifests:
Cold limbs
Accompanying symptoms:
Absence of thirst, Slow and forceful movement, Epigastric pain worsen by pressure, Polyuria, Feeling of chest oppression, Nausea...
Ba Wei Di Huang Wan
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Tonifies Kidney Yang
- Promotes Qi transformation
- Warms the Ming Men Fire
- Promotes Urination
- Supplements Yin and Benefits Yang
Addresses These Cold Extremities Pattern Variations
Kidney Yang Deficiency
How it manifests:
Cold extremities, Cold hands and feet, Cold limbs
Accompanying symptoms:
Lower back pain, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Weak and cold knees, Lower back coldness, Chills...
Yang Deficiency or Empty Yang
How it manifests:
Cold limbs
Accompanying symptoms:
Chills, General cold feeling, Pale urine, Undigested food in stools, General weakness, Abdominal pain relieved by pressure and warmth...
Ban Liu Wan
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Warms the Kidneys and expels Cold
- Warms the Ming Men Fire
- Purges Cold Accumulation
- Descends Qi
- Transforms Turbidity
Addresses These Cold Extremities Pattern Variations
Empty-Cold
How it manifests:
Cold limbs
Accompanying symptoms:
Chills, Cold extremities, Pale face, Absence of thirst, Apathy, Excessive sweating...
Yang Deficiency or Empty Yang
How it manifests:
Cold limbs
Accompanying symptoms:
Chills, General cold feeling, Pale urine, Undigested food in stools, General weakness, Abdominal pain relieved by pressure and warmth...
Ban Xia Hou Po Tang
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Moves Qi and Dissipates Nodules
- Descends Qi
- Resolves Phlegm
- Dries Dampness
- Harmonizes the Stomach
Addresses These Cold Extremities Pattern Variations
Heart Qi Stagnation
How it manifests:
Cold limbs
Accompanying symptoms:
Palpitations, Chest distension, Stifling sensation in the chest, Depression
Pericardium Qi Stagnation
How it manifests:
Cold limbs
Accompanying symptoms:
Mild chest pain, Chest distension, Stifling sensation in the chest, Sighing, Throat lumps, Palpitations...
Er Xian Tang
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Tonifies Kidney Yang
- Tonifies Kidney Essence
- Drains Ministerial Fire
- Secures the Chong and Ren Vessels
- Nourishes Blood
Addresses These Cold Extremities Pattern Variations
Deficiency of both the Kidney Yin and Yang
How it manifests:
Cold hands and feet
Accompanying symptoms:
Menopausal symptoms, Hypertension, Irregular periods, Menopausal hot flashes, Excessive sweating, Irritability...
Kidney Yang Deficiency
How it manifests:
Cold extremities, Cold hands and feet, Cold limbs
Accompanying symptoms:
Lower back pain, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Weak and cold knees, Lower back coldness, Chills...
Er Zhi Wan
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Nourishes Liver and Kidney Yin
- Tonifies the Kidneys
- Tonifies the Liver
- Cools the Blood
- Stops Bleeding
- Blackens the Hair and Beard
Addresses These Cold Extremities Pattern Variations
Deficiency of both the Kidney Yin and Yang
How it manifests:
Cold hands and feet
Accompanying symptoms:
Menopausal symptoms, Hypertension, Irregular periods, Menopausal hot flashes, Excessive sweating, Irritability...
Kidney-Deficiency
How it manifests:
Cold limbs
Accompanying symptoms:
Scanty menstruation, Pale menstrual flow, Back pain, Knee pain, Dizziness, Tinnitus...
Huang Qi Jian Zhong Tang
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Tonifies the Middle and Augments Qi
- Relaxes Spasms and Relieves Urgency
- Tonifies Qi and Generates Blood
- Warms Yang and Disperses Cold
- Harmonizes the Nutritive and Defensive Qi
Addresses These Cold Extremities Pattern Variations
Empty-Cold
How it manifests:
Cold limbs
Accompanying symptoms:
Chills, Cold extremities, Pale face, Absence of thirst, Apathy, Excessive sweating...
Stomach Yang Deficient and Cold
How it manifests:
Cold limbs
Accompanying symptoms:
Epigastric pain relieved with pressure or eating, Loss of appetite, Desire for hot beverages and foods, Vomiting clear liquid, Absence of thirst, Weak limbs...
Liang Fu Wan
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Warms the Interior and Dispels Cold
- Soothes the Liver and Regulates Qi
- Alleviates Pain
Addresses These Cold Extremities Pattern Variations
Cold invading the Stomach
How it manifests:
Cold limbs
Accompanying symptoms:
Severe upper abdominal pain, Chills, Cold extremities, Desire for hot beverages and foods, Vomiting clear liquid, Nausea...
Large Intestine Cold
How it manifests:
Cold limbs
Accompanying symptoms:
Diarrhea, Abdominal pain, Borborygmi, Clear urination, Cold extremities
Tu Si Zi Wan
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Tonifies Kidney Yang
- Secures Essence and Stops Leakage
- Strengthens the Lower Back and Knees
- Tonifies the Kidneys
- Secures Essence and Stops Enuresis
Addresses These Cold Extremities Pattern Variations
Kidney Qi not Firm
How it manifests:
Cold limbs
Accompanying symptoms:
Lower back pain, Lower back weakness, Polyuria, Weak urine stream, Enuresis, Nocturnal emission...
Kidney Yang Deficiency
How it manifests:
Cold extremities, Cold hands and feet, Cold limbs
Accompanying symptoms:
Lower back pain, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Weak and cold knees, Lower back coldness, Chills...
Wu Pi Yin
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Promotes Urination and Reduces Edema
- Transforms Dampness and Moves Qi
- Strengthens the Spleen
- Descends Lung Qi to open the water pathways
- Moves Qi and Relieves Distension
Addresses These Cold Extremities Pattern Variations
Oedema
How it manifests:
Cold limbs
Accompanying symptoms:
Abdominal edema, Ankle edema, Facial edema, Foot edema, Oedema of hands, Leg edema...
Yin Excess
How it manifests:
Cold limbs
Accompanying symptoms:
Absence of thirst, Slow and forceful movement, Epigastric pain worsen by pressure, Polyuria, Feeling of chest oppression, Nausea...
Wu Zhu Yu Tang
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Warms the Middle Burner and tonifies deficiency
- Directs Rebellious Qi Downward and Stops Vomiting
- Warms the Liver Channel and Dispels Cold
- Warms the Interior and Dispels Cold
Addresses These Cold Extremities Pattern Variations
Cold invading the Stomach
How it manifests:
Cold limbs
Accompanying symptoms:
Severe upper abdominal pain, Chills, Cold extremities, Desire for hot beverages and foods, Vomiting clear liquid, Nausea...
Stomach Yang Deficient and Cold
How it manifests:
Cold limbs
Accompanying symptoms:
Epigastric pain relieved with pressure or eating, Loss of appetite, Desire for hot beverages and foods, Vomiting clear liquid, Absence of thirst, Weak limbs...
Xiao Jian Zhong Tang
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Warms the Middle Burner
- Relaxes Spasms and Relieves Urgency
- Harmonizes Yin and Yang
- Nourishes the Spleen and Stomach
- Harmonizes the Liver and Spleen
- Tonifies Qi and Generates Blood
Addresses These Cold Extremities Pattern Variations
Small Intestine Deficient and Cold
How it manifests:
Cold limbs
Accompanying symptoms:
Borborygmi, Abdominal pain relieved by pressure or eating, Craving for hot beverages, Diarrhea, Pale and abudant urination, Cold extremities
Stomach Yang Deficient and Cold
How it manifests:
Cold limbs
Accompanying symptoms:
Epigastric pain relieved with pressure or eating, Loss of appetite, Desire for hot beverages and foods, Vomiting clear liquid, Absence of thirst, Weak limbs...
Yi Huang Tang
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Secures the Kidneys and Stops Vaginal Discharge
- Clears Heat and Drains Dampness
- Secures the Chong and Ren Vessels
- Secures the Lower Burner
Addresses These Cold Extremities Pattern Variations
Spleen Deficiency
How it manifests:
Cold limbs
Accompanying symptoms:
Sticky vaginal discharge, Generalized fatigue, Depression, Cold extremities, Diarrhea, White vaginal discharge...
Spleen Yang Deficiency
How it manifests:
Cold limbs
Accompanying symptoms:
Slight abdominal distension after eating, General weakness, Desire to lie down curled up, Pale face, Cold extremities, Chills...
Zhen Wu Tang
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Warms Yang and Disperses Cold
- Promotes Urination and Drains Dampness
- Transforms Water-Dampness
- Strengthens the Spleen
- Tonifies Kidney Yang
Addresses These Cold Extremities Pattern Variations
Oedema
How it manifests:
Cold limbs
Accompanying symptoms:
Abdominal edema, Ankle edema, Facial edema, Foot edema, Oedema of hands, Leg edema...
Spleen Yang Deficiency
How it manifests:
Cold limbs
Accompanying symptoms:
Slight abdominal distension after eating, General weakness, Desire to lie down curled up, Pale face, Cold extremities, Chills...
Chai Hu Shu Gan San
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Courses the Liver and Resolves Constraint
- Moves Qi and Alleviates Pain
- Invigorates Blood and Dispels Stasis
- Harmonizes the Liver and Spleen
Addresses These Cold Extremities Pattern Variations
Heart Vessel obstructed
How it manifests:
Cold hands and feet
Accompanying symptoms:
Palpitations, Shortness of breath, Depression, Restlessness, Stifling sensation in the chest, Heart pain...
Da Huang Fu Zi Tang
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Warms the Interior and Dispels Cold
- Purges Heat and Unblocks the Bowels
- Alleviates Pain
- Warms Yang to resolve Cold stagnation
Addresses These Cold Extremities Pattern Variations
Exterior Cold invading the Interior
How it manifests:
Cold hands and feet
Accompanying symptoms:
Abdominal pain, Constipation, Hypochondriac pain, Chills, Low grade fever, Cold extremities...
Da Jian Zhong Tang
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Warms the Middle Burner
- Tonifies Qi
- Descends Qi
- Disperses Cold
- Alleviates Pain
- Stops Vomiting
Addresses These Cold Extremities Pattern Variations
Empty-Cold
How it manifests:
Cold limbs
Accompanying symptoms:
Chills, Cold extremities, Pale face, Absence of thirst, Apathy, Excessive sweating...
Dang Gui Si Ni Tang
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Warms the Channels and Disperses Cold
- Nourishes Blood and Unblocks the Vessels
- Promotes blood circulation through the meridians
- Dispels Cold and Alleviates Pain
Addresses These Cold Extremities Pattern Variations
Heart Vessel obstructed
How it manifests:
Cold hands and feet
Accompanying symptoms:
Palpitations, Shortness of breath, Depression, Restlessness, Stifling sensation in the chest, Heart pain...
Di Tan Tang
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Scours Phlegm and Opens the Orifices
- Clears Heat and Transforms Phlegm
- Regulates Qi and resolves turbidity
- Tonifies Qi and Strengthens the Spleen
- Dries Dampness
Addresses These Cold Extremities Pattern Variations
Heart Vessel obstructed
How it manifests:
Cold hands and feet
Accompanying symptoms:
Palpitations, Shortness of breath, Depression, Restlessness, Stifling sensation in the chest, Heart pain...
Fang Ji Huang Qi Tang
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Tonifies Qi and consolidates the Exterior
- Dispels Wind-Dampness
- Promotes Urination and Reduces Edema
- Strengthens the Spleen
- Drains Dampness
Addresses These Cold Extremities Pattern Variations
Oedema
How it manifests:
Cold limbs
Accompanying symptoms:
Abdominal edema, Ankle edema, Facial edema, Foot edema, Oedema of hands, Leg edema...
Fu Tu Dan
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Tonifies the Kidneys and Secures Essence
- Strengthens the Spleen
- Secures Essence and Stops Enuresis
- Tonifies the Kidneys
- Astringes to Stop Vaginal Discharge
Addresses These Cold Extremities Pattern Variations
Kidney Qi not Firm
How it manifests:
Cold limbs
Accompanying symptoms:
Lower back pain, Lower back weakness, Polyuria, Weak urine stream, Enuresis, Nocturnal emission...
Fu Zi Tang
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Warms the Channels and Disperses Cold
- Assists Yang
- Dispels Cold-Dampness
- Tonifies Qi
- Dispels Cold and Alleviates Pain
- Strengthens the Spleen and Resolves Dampness
Addresses These Cold Extremities Pattern Variations
Yang Deficiency with Cold-Damp
How it manifests:
Cold extremities
Accompanying symptoms:
Body pain, Bone and joint pain, Absence of thirst, Aversion to cold, Migraine, Cluster headache...
Gan Cao Gan Jiang Tang
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Warms the Middle Burner and Restores Yang
- Warms the Lungs and Transforms Phlegm-Fluids
- Tonifies Spleen Qi
- Disperses Cold
Addresses These Cold Extremities Pattern Variations
Lung Yang Deficiency
How it manifests:
Cold limbs
Accompanying symptoms:
Coughing and wheezing with copious sputum, Cold extremities, Spontaneous sweat, Frequent colds or flu, Pale face, Generalized fatigue...
Gu Ben Zhi Beng Tang
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Tonifies Qi
- Nourishes Blood
- Strengthens the Spleen
- Warms the Channels and Stops Bleeding
- Secures Essence and Stops Leakage
Addresses These Cold Extremities Pattern Variations
Qi Deficiency
How it manifests:
Cold limbs
Accompanying symptoms:
General weakness, Weak voice, Generalized fatigue, Apathy, Dislike of speaking, Spontaneous sweat...
Gui Pi Tang
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Tonifies Qi
- Nourishes Blood
- Strengthens the Spleen
- Tonifies Heart Qi
- Calms the Spirit
- Restores the Spleen's Governance of Blood
Addresses These Cold Extremities Pattern Variations
Qi Deficiency
How it manifests:
Cold limbs
Accompanying symptoms:
General weakness, Weak voice, Generalized fatigue, Apathy, Dislike of speaking, Spontaneous sweat...
Huang Tu Tang
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Warms the Middle Burner
- Nourishes Blood and stops bleeding
- Restores the Spleen's Governance of Blood
- Stops Bleeding
Addresses These Cold Extremities Pattern Variations
Spleen Yang Deficiency
How it manifests:
Cold limbs
Accompanying symptoms:
Slight abdominal distension after eating, General weakness, Desire to lie down curled up, Pale face, Cold extremities, Chills...
Hui Yang Jiu Ji Tang
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Rescues Devastated Yang from Collapse
- Warms the Interior and Dispels Cold
- Tonifies Qi and revives the pulse
- Strengthens the Spleen and Resolves Dampness
- Opens the Orifices and Revives Consciousness
Addresses These Cold Extremities Pattern Variations
Collapse of Yang
How it manifests:
Cold limbs
Accompanying symptoms:
Apathy, Chills, Cold extremities, Bright pale face, Sweating on forehead, Absence of thirst...
Huo Xiang Zheng Qi San
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Aromatically Transforms Dampness
- Disperses Wind-Cold from the Exterior
- Regulates Qi and Harmonizes the Middle Burner
- Directs Rebellious Qi Downward and Stops Vomiting
- Strengthens the Spleen and Stops Diarrhea
Addresses These Cold Extremities Pattern Variations
Cold invading the Stomach
How it manifests:
Cold limbs
Accompanying symptoms:
Severe upper abdominal pain, Chills, Cold extremities, Desire for hot beverages and foods, Vomiting clear liquid, Nausea...
Ji Chuan Jian
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Warms the Kidneys and Secures Essence
- Moistens the Intestines and Unblocks the Bowels
- Supplements Blood and lubricates dryness
- Raises Clear Yang and Descends Turbid Yin
Addresses These Cold Extremities Pattern Variations
Kidney Yang Deficiency
How it manifests:
Cold extremities, Cold hands and feet, Cold limbs
Accompanying symptoms:
Lower back pain, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Weak and cold knees, Lower back coldness, Chills...
Jin Suo Gu Jing Wan
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Tonifies the Kidneys
- Astringes and Secures Essence
- Secures Essence and Stops Seminal Emission
- Calms the Spirit
Addresses These Cold Extremities Pattern Variations
Kidney Qi not Firm
How it manifests:
Cold limbs
Accompanying symptoms:
Lower back pain, Lower back weakness, Polyuria, Weak urine stream, Enuresis, Nocturnal emission...
Liang Di Tang
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Nourishes Yin
- Clears Deficiency Heat
- Cools the Blood
- Regulates menstruation
Addresses These Cold Extremities Pattern Variations
Kidney-Deficiency
How it manifests:
Cold limbs
Accompanying symptoms:
Scanty menstruation, Pale menstrual flow, Back pain, Knee pain, Dizziness, Tinnitus...
Ling Gan Wu Wei Jiang Xin Tang
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Warms the Lungs and Stops Cough
- Resolves Phlegm-Fluid Retention
- Disperses Cold
- Strengthens the Spleen and Resolves Dampness
Addresses These Cold Extremities Pattern Variations
Cold-Phlegm
How it manifests:
Cold limbs
Accompanying symptoms:
White and watery sputum, Stifling sensation in the chest, Cold extremities, Nausea, Loss of appetite
Ling Gui Zhu Gan Tang
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Warms Yang and Transforms Fluid Retention
- Strengthens the Spleen and Resolves Dampness
- Subdues Rushing Qi (Ben Tun)
- Resolves Phlegm-Fluid Retention
Addresses These Cold Extremities Pattern Variations
Oedema
How it manifests:
Cold limbs
Accompanying symptoms:
Abdominal edema, Ankle edema, Facial edema, Foot edema, Oedema of hands, Leg edema...
Ma Huang Xi Xin Fu Zi Tang
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Releases the Exterior and Warms the Interior
- Warms the Channels and Disperses Cold
- Tonifies Kidney Yang
- Disperses Wind-Cold from the Exterior
Addresses These Cold Extremities Pattern Variations
Wind-Cold invading with Yang Deficiency
How it manifests:
Cold extremities
Accompanying symptoms:
Low grade fever, Severe chills, Exhaustion, Hypersomnia, Lumbar pain, Lower back pain...
Nuan Gan Jian
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Warms the Liver and Kidneys
- Moves Qi and Alleviates Pain
- Warms the Liver Channel and Dispels Cold
- Nourishes Blood
Addresses These Cold Extremities Pattern Variations
Stagnation of Cold in the Liver Channel
How it manifests:
Cold hands and feet
Accompanying symptoms:
Hypochondrial fullness and distention with pain alleviated by warmth, Testicular pain, Scrotal contraction, Vertical headaches, Chills, Cold extremities...
Ping Wei San
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Dries Dampness
- Strengthens the Spleen
- Moves Qi
- Harmonizes the Stomach
- Eliminates Focal Distention and Fullness
- Transforms Dampness and Resolves Turbidity
Addresses These Cold Extremities Pattern Variations
Oedema
How it manifests:
Cold limbs
Accompanying symptoms:
Abdominal edema, Ankle edema, Facial edema, Foot edema, Oedema of hands, Leg edema...
Qing E Wan
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Tonifies the Kidneys
- Strengthens the Lower Back and Knees
- Tonifies Kidney Yang
- Strengthens the Sinews and Bones
Addresses These Cold Extremities Pattern Variations
Kidney Qi not Firm
How it manifests:
Cold limbs
Accompanying symptoms:
Lower back pain, Lower back weakness, Polyuria, Weak urine stream, Enuresis, Nocturnal emission...
Qing Ying Tang
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Cools the Nutritive Level
- Resolves Heat Toxins
- Vents Pathogenic Heat Outward
- Nourishes Yin
- Generates Fluids
- Cools the Blood
- Invigorates Blood and Dispels Stasis
Addresses These Cold Extremities Pattern Variations
Heat in Pericardium
How it manifests:
Cold hands and feet
Accompanying symptoms:
Nighttime fever, Delirium, Confusion, Incoherent or confused speech, Cold extremities
San Zi Yang Qin Tang
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Warms the Lungs and Transforms Phlegm-Fluids
- Descends Qi
- Stops Cough and Calms Wheezing
- Promotes Digestion and Resolves Food Stagnation
- Loosens the chest and resolves distension
Addresses These Cold Extremities Pattern Variations
Cold-Phlegm
How it manifests:
Cold limbs
Accompanying symptoms:
White and watery sputum, Stifling sensation in the chest, Cold extremities, Nausea, Loss of appetite
Shao Fu Zhu Yu Tang
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Invigorates Blood and Dispels Stasis
- Warms the Channels and Disperses Cold
- Moves Qi and Alleviates Pain
- Regulates menstruation
Addresses These Cold Extremities Pattern Variations
Cold in the Uterus
How it manifests:
Cold hands and feet, Cold limbs
Accompanying symptoms:
Diarrhea, Loss of appetite, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Thin vaginal discharge
Shen Fu Tang
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Rescues Devastated Yang from Collapse
- Greatly Tonifies the Source Qi
- Secures Essence and Stops Leakage
Addresses These Cold Extremities Pattern Variations
Collapse of Yang
How it manifests:
Cold limbs
Accompanying symptoms:
Apathy, Chills, Cold extremities, Bright pale face, Sweating on forehead, Absence of thirst...
Shen Ling Bai Zhu San
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Tonifies Qi
- Strengthens the Spleen
- Drains Dampness
- Stops Diarrhea
- Tonifies Lung Qi
- Harmonizes the Stomach
Addresses These Cold Extremities Pattern Variations
Small Intestine Deficient and Cold
How it manifests:
Cold limbs
Accompanying symptoms:
Borborygmi, Abdominal pain relieved by pressure or eating, Craving for hot beverages, Diarrhea, Pale and abudant urination, Cold extremities
Sheng Mai San
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Tonifies Qi
- Generates Fluids
- Nourishes Yin
- Astringes to Stop Sweating
- Astringes the Lungs and Stops Cough
Addresses These Cold Extremities Pattern Variations
Lung Yang Deficiency
How it manifests:
Cold limbs
Accompanying symptoms:
Coughing and wheezing with copious sputum, Cold extremities, Spontaneous sweat, Frequent colds or flu, Pale face, Generalized fatigue...
Si Jun Zi Tang
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Tonifies Qi
- Strengthens the Spleen
- Harmonizes the Stomach
- Promotes transportation and transformation
Addresses These Cold Extremities Pattern Variations
Lung Yang Deficiency
How it manifests:
Cold limbs
Accompanying symptoms:
Coughing and wheezing with copious sputum, Cold extremities, Spontaneous sweat, Frequent colds or flu, Pale face, Generalized fatigue...
Si Ni Tang
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Rescues Devastated Yang from Collapse
- Warms the Interior and Dispels Cold
- Tonifies Kidney Yang
- Tonifies Heart and Kidney Yang
Addresses These Cold Extremities Pattern Variations
Lesser Yin Cold Transformation
How it manifests:
Cold limbs
Accompanying symptoms:
Chills, Diarrhea, Absence of thirst, Desire to lie down curled up, Apathy, Hypersomnia...
Tao Hua Tang
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Warms the Middle Burner
- Astringes the Intestines and Stops Diarrhea
- Secures Essence and Stops Leakage
- Stops Dysentery
- Stops Bleeding
Addresses These Cold Extremities Pattern Variations
Large Intestine Cold
How it manifests:
Cold limbs
Accompanying symptoms:
Diarrhea, Abdominal pain, Borborygmi, Clear urination, Cold extremities
Wan Dai Tang
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Strengthens the Spleen
- Drains Dampness
- Soothes the Liver and Regulates Qi
- Astringes to Stop Vaginal Discharge
- Raises Clear Yang
- Moves Qi
Addresses These Cold Extremities Pattern Variations
Spleen Deficiency
How it manifests:
Cold limbs
Accompanying symptoms:
Sticky vaginal discharge, Generalized fatigue, Depression, Cold extremities, Diarrhea, White vaginal discharge...
Wei Ling Tang
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Dries Dampness and strengthens the Spleen
- Promotes Urination and Drains Dampness
- Regulates Qi and Harmonizes the Middle Burner
- Warms Yang and Transforms Qi
- Transforms Water-Dampness
Addresses These Cold Extremities Pattern Variations
Damp-Cold
How it manifests:
Cold limbs
Accompanying symptoms:
Mouth ulcers, White and watery sputum, Nasal discharge, Sneezing, Chills, Abdominal pain...
Wen Jing Tang
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Warms the Channels and Disperses Cold
- Nourishes Blood
- Invigorates Blood and Dispels Stasis
- Regulates menstruation
- Tonifies Qi
- Nourishes Yin and Clears Deficiency Heat
Addresses These Cold Extremities Pattern Variations
Cold in the Uterus
How it manifests:
Cold hands and feet, Cold limbs
Accompanying symptoms:
Diarrhea, Loss of appetite, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Thin vaginal discharge
Wen Pi Tang
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Warms the Middle Burner
- Purges Cold Accumulation
- Tonifies Qi
- Disperses Cold
- Promotes Bowel Movement
Addresses These Cold Extremities Pattern Variations
Spleen Yang Deficiency
How it manifests:
Cold limbs
Accompanying symptoms:
Slight abdominal distension after eating, General weakness, Desire to lie down curled up, Pale face, Cold extremities, Chills...
Wen Qi Hua Shi Tang
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Warms the Lower Burner and Dispels Cold
- Drains Dampness
- Tonifies Spleen Qi
- Assists Yang
- Secures the Chong and Ren Vessels
Addresses These Cold Extremities Pattern Variations
Cold in the Uterus
How it manifests:
Cold hands and feet, Cold limbs
Accompanying symptoms:
Diarrhea, Loss of appetite, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Thin vaginal discharge
Wu Zi Yan Zong Wan
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Tonifies the Kidneys
- Benefits Essence and Fills the Marrow
- Secures Essence and Stops Leakage
- Regulates and facilitates Kidney Qi
Addresses These Cold Extremities Pattern Variations
Kidney Yang Deficiency
How it manifests:
Cold extremities, Cold hands and feet, Cold limbs
Accompanying symptoms:
Lower back pain, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Weak and cold knees, Lower back coldness, Chills...
Xiang Sha Yang Wei Wan
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Warms the Middle Burner
- Harmonizes the Stomach
- Drains Dampness
- Moves Qi
- Strengthens the Spleen
- Eliminates Focal Distention and Fullness
Addresses These Cold Extremities Pattern Variations
Stomach Yang Deficient and Cold
How it manifests:
Cold limbs
Accompanying symptoms:
Epigastric pain relieved with pressure or eating, Loss of appetite, Desire for hot beverages and foods, Vomiting clear liquid, Absence of thirst, Weak limbs...
Xue Fu Zhu Yu Tang
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Invigorates Blood and Dispels Stasis
- Moves Qi and Alleviates Pain
- Opens the Chest and Disperses Stagnation
- Courses the Liver and Resolves Constraint
- Guides Herbs and Blood Downward
Addresses These Cold Extremities Pattern Variations
Heart Vessel obstructed
How it manifests:
Cold hands and feet
Accompanying symptoms:
Palpitations, Shortness of breath, Depression, Restlessness, Stifling sensation in the chest, Heart pain...
Yu Gong San
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Drains Water and Reduces Edema
- Moves Qi and Dissipates Nodules
- Purges Heat and Unblocks the Bowels
- Warms the Lower Burner and Dispels Cold
Addresses These Cold Extremities Pattern Variations
Oedema
How it manifests:
Cold limbs
Accompanying symptoms:
Abdominal edema, Ankle edema, Facial edema, Foot edema, Oedema of hands, Leg edema...
Yu Lin Zhu
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Tonifies Qi and Generates Blood
- Tonifies Kidney Yang
- Tonifies the Liver
- Secures the Chong and Ren Vessels
- Regulates menstruation
- Warms the Uterus and Promotes Fertility
Addresses These Cold Extremities Pattern Variations
Kidney Yang Deficiency
How it manifests:
Cold extremities, Cold hands and feet, Cold limbs
Accompanying symptoms:
Lower back pain, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Weak and cold knees, Lower back coldness, Chills...
Zai Zao San
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Assists Yang
- Tonifies Qi
- Releases the Exterior
- Disperses Cold
- Harmonizes the Nutritive and Defensive Qi
Addresses These Cold Extremities Pattern Variations
Wind-Cold invading with Yang Deficiency
How it manifests:
Cold extremities
Accompanying symptoms:
Low grade fever, Severe chills, Exhaustion, Hypersomnia, Lumbar pain, Lower back pain...
Zhi Bao Dan
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Opens the Orifices and Revives Consciousness
- Transforms Turbidity
- Clears Heat
- Resolves Toxicity
- Calms the Spirit and Relieves Restlessness
- Expels Phlegm
Addresses These Cold Extremities Pattern Variations
Heat in Pericardium
How it manifests:
Cold hands and feet
Accompanying symptoms:
Nighttime fever, Delirium, Confusion, Incoherent or confused speech, Cold extremities
Zhou Che Wan
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Drains Water and Reduces Edema
- Moves Qi
- Purges Heat and Unblocks the Bowels
- Promotes Bowel and Urinary Movement
Addresses These Cold Extremities Pattern Variations
Oedema
How it manifests:
Cold limbs
Accompanying symptoms:
Abdominal edema, Ankle edema, Facial edema, Foot edema, Oedema of hands, Leg edema...
Zuo Gui Wan
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Nourishes Kidney Yin
- Benefits Essence and Fills the Marrow
- Nourishes Blood
- Tonifies the Liver
- Strengthens the Lower Back and Knees
- Astringes and Secures Essence
Addresses These Cold Extremities Pattern Variations
Kidney-Deficiency
How it manifests:
Cold limbs
Accompanying symptoms:
Scanty menstruation, Pale menstrual flow, Back pain, Knee pain, Dizziness, Tinnitus...
Su Zi Jiang Qi Tang
Traditional formula for cold extremities
Main Actions
- Descends Qi and calms wheezing
- Resolves Phlegm and Stops Cough
- Disperses Cold and Transforms Phlegm
- Aids the Kidneys in Grasping Qi
- Guides Fire Back to Its Source
Ren Shen Ge Jie San
Traditional formula for cold extremities
Main Actions
- Tonifies Lung and Kidney Qi
- Stops Cough and Calms Wheezing
- Clears Lung Heat
- Resolves Phlegm
- Strengthens the Spleen and Resolves Dampness
- Aids the Kidneys in Grasping Qi
Wu Mei Wan
Traditional formula for cold extremities
Main Actions
- Warms the organs and calms roundworms
- Harmonizes Cold and Heat
- Soothes the Liver and regulates the middle
- Tonifies Qi and Generates Blood
- Astringes the Intestines and Stops Diarrhea