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
Causes: Cold extremities, Cold hands and feet, Cold limbs
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
Causes: Cold extremities, Cold hands and feet, Cold limbs
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
Causes: Cold limbs
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
Causes: Cold limbs, Cold extremities
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
Causes: Cold hands and feet, Cold limbs
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
Causes: Cold limbs
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
Causes: Cold limbs
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
Causes: Cold hands and feet
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
Causes: Cold limbs
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
Causes: Cold limbs
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
Causes: Cold limbs
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: Cold extremities
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
Causes: Cold hands and feet
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
Wu Ling San
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Promotes urination,
- Warms the Yang
- Strengthens the Spleen
- Promotes Qi transformation function
- Drains Dampness
- Clears edema
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...
Fu Zi Tang
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Warms the Meridians
- Assists the Yang
- Dispels Cold
- Transforms 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...
You Gui Wan
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Warms and tonifies Kidney Yang
- Replenishes the Essence
- Tonifies the Blood
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...
Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Tonifies Qi of the Spleen and Stomach (Middle Burner)
- Raises the Yang
- Detoxifies
- Lifts what has sunken
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...
Wu Pi Yin
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Reduces edema, diuretic
- Regulates and strengthens Spleen Qi
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...
Ma Huang Xi Xin Fu Zi Tang
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Tonifes the Yang
- Releases 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...
Jin Gui Shen Qi Wan
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Tonifies and warms Kidney 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...
Oedema
How it manifests:
Cold limbs
Accompanying symptoms:
Abdominal edema, Ankle edema, Facial edema, Foot edema, Oedema of hands, Leg edema...
Zhen Wu Tang
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Warms and tonifies the Yang and Qi of the Spleen and Kidneys
- Eliminates 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...
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...
Zai Zao San
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Tonfies the Yang
- Augments the Qi
- Induces sweating
- Releases 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...
Er Xian Tang
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Nourishes Yin and tonifies Yang of the Kidneys
- Clears Empty Heat
- Regulates the Directing and Penetrating Vessels
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...
Yi Huang Tang
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Strengthens the Spleen
- Dries Dampness
- Clears Heat
- Stops vaginal discharge
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...
Wu Zhu Yu Tang
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Warms and tonifies the Liver and Stomach
- Directs Rebellious Qi downward
- Stops vomiting
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...
Fang Ji Huang Qi Tang
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Diuretic, clears Excess fluid and removes edema
- Tonifies the Spleen Qi
- Calms External Wind
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...
Er Zhi Wan
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Nourishes Liver Yin
- Nourishes Kidney Yin
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...
Tu Si Zi Wan
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Warms the Kidneys
- Prevents abnormal leakage such as urinary incontinence or seminal emissions
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...
Ling Gan Wu Wei Jiang Xin Tang
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Warms the Lungs
- Transforms congested Fluids
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
Ping Wei San
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Dries Dampness
- Improves the Spleen's transportive function
- Promotes the movement of Qi
- Harmonizes the Stomach
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...
San Zi Yang Qin Tang
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Directs the Qi downward
- Transforms Phlegm
- Reduces harbored food
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 and transforms Phlegm-Fluids
- Strengthens the Spleen
- Resolves 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...
Wei Ling Tang
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Promotes urination
- Warms the Yang
- Strengthens the Spleen
- Drains Dampness
- Promotes the movement of Qi
- Harmonizes the Stomach
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...
Yu Gong San
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Expels water and
- Reduces edema
- Unblocks the bowels
- Moves Qi
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...
Huang Qi Jian Zhong Tang
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Warms and tonifies the Middle Burner (Spleen and Stomach)
- Tonifies Qi
- Relieves spasmodic pain
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...
Zhou Che Wan
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Promotes Qi movement
- Harshly drives out Water and Heat Stagnation
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...
Ban Liu Wan
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Fortifies the Fire at the Gate of Vitality
- Expels Cold
- Unblocks the Yang
- Drains 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...
Si Ni Tang
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Rescues devastated Yang
- Warms the Middle Burner
- Stops diarrhea
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...
Xiao Jian Zhong Tang
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Warms and tonifies the Middle Burner (Spleen and Stomach)
- Tonifies Qi
- Relieves spasmodic pain
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...
Wen Jing Tang
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Warms the Uterus and vessels
- Nourishes Blood
- Dispels Cold
- Dispels Blood Stagnation
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
Xue Fu Zhu Yu Tang
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Invigorates the Blood
- Dispels blood Stagnation
- Spreads the Liver Qi
- Unblocks the channels
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...
Shen Fu Tang
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Restores Yang
- Strongly tonifies the source Qi
- Saves Qi from collapsing due to devastated Yang
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...
Qing Ying Tang
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Clears the Nutritive level Heat
- Relieves Fire Toxin
- Removes Heat
- Nourishes Yin
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
Gui Pi Tang
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Tonifies and nourish Qi and Blood
- Tonifies Heart and Spleen
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...
Zuo Gui Wan
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Nourishes the Yin
- Strengthens the Kidneys
- Fills the Essence
- Augments the marrow
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...
Wu Zi Yan Zong Wan
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Tonifies Kidney Yang
- Strengthens the Essence
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...
Ban Xia Hou Pu Tang
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Regulates the flow of Qi,
- Clears Phlegm
- Treats esophageal spasm
- Descends Rebellious Qi
- Dissipates clumps
- Relieves Stagnation
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...
Shao Fu Zhu Yu Tang
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Expels Cold and warm the menstruation Blood
- Stops pain
- Invigorates Blood
- Dispels Blood stagnation
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
Chai Hu Shu Gan San
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Disperses Stagnant Liver Qi and Blood
- Alleviates pain
- Harmonizes Blood
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...
Hui Yang Jiu Ji Tang
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Restores and revives the Yang
- Augments the Qi
- Revives the pulse
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...
Zhi Bao Dan
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Clears Heat
- Opens the sensory orifices
- Resolves toxicity
- Transforms 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
Gu Ben Zhi Beng Tang
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Tonifies Qi and Yang
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...
Liang Di Tang
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Nourishes Yin
- Cools Blood
- Stop bleeding
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...
Ba Wei Di Huang Wan
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Tonifies Yang
- Warms the Kidneys and lower extremities
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...
Wen Qi Hua Shi Tang
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Supports Kidney Yang
- Supplies Spleen Qi
- Expels Cold and Dampness from the Uterus
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
Di Tan Tang
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Removes Phlegm
- Opens the sensory orifices
- Tonifies Qi
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...
Wan Dai Tang
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Tonifies the Middle Burner
- Removes Dampness
- Stops vaginal discharge
- Strengthens the Spleen
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...
Ji Chuan Jian
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Warms the Kidneys
- Nourishes the Blood
- Strengthens the Essence
- Moistens the Intestines
- Unblocks bowels
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...
Da Huang Fu Zi Tang
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Warms the Interior
- Disperses Cold
- Unblocks the bowels
- Alleviates pain
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...
Dang Gui Si Ni Tang
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Warms the Channels
- Disperses Cold
- Nourishes the Blood
- Unblocks the Blood vessels
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...
Jin Suo Gu Jing Wan
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Stabilizes the Kidneys
- Binds up the semen
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...
Yu Lin Zhu
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Tonifies Kidney Yang
- Consolidates the Penetrating and Directing Vessel (Chong Mai, Ren Mai)
- Facilitating pregnancy
- Promotes Blood circulation and regulates menstruation
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...
Nuan Gan Jian
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Warms the Liver and Kidneys
- Promotes the movement of Qi
- Alleviates pain
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...
Fu Tu Dan
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Stabilizes the Kidney Qi
- Strengthens the Spleen
- Stops leakage
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...
Gan Cao Gan Jiang Tang
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Warms the Lungs
- Strengthens the Stomach
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...
Liang Fu Wan
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Warms the Middle Burner
- Dispels Cold
- Promotes the movement of 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
Qing E Wan
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Warms and Reinforces Kidney Yang
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...
Si Jun Zi Tang
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Tonifies Qi
- Strengthens the Spleen and Stomach
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...
Huo Xiang Zheng Qi San
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Releases the Exterior
- Transforms Dampness
- Regulates Qi
- Harmonizes the Middle Burner
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...
Sheng Mai San
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Augments Qi
- Supplies the Yin
- Stops excessive sweating
- Generates Body Fluids
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...
Da Jian Zhong Tang
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Warms and tonifies Middle Burner Deficiency
- Directs rebellious Qi downward
- Relieves pain
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...
Huang Tu Tang
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Warms the Yang
- Strengthens the Spleen
- Nourishes the 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...
Tao Hua Tang
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Warms the Middle
- Dispels Cold
- Binds up the bowels and stops dysenteric disorders
Addresses These Cold Extremities Pattern Variations
Large Intestine Cold
How it manifests:
Cold limbs
Accompanying symptoms:
Diarrhea, Abdominal pain, Borborygmi, Clear urination, Cold extremities
Wen Pi Tang
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Warms and tonifies the Spleen Yang
- Clears Cold Evil
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...
Shen Ling Bai Zhu San
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Augments the Qi
- Strengthens the Spleen
- Drains Dampness
- Stops diarrhea
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
Xiang Sha Yang Wei Wan
Addresses these cold extremities patterns:
Main Actions
- Strengthens and harmonizes the Spleen and Stomach
- Resolves Dampness
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...