Irritability in Traditional Chinese Medicine
Understanding different irritability patterns according to TCM theory
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Condition Categories
Condition Categories
Irritability is a state of heightened emotional sensitivity where a person is easily provoked, annoyed, or agitated. This symptom can manifest as quick temper, emotional instability, or sudden emotional outbursts, making it challenging for individuals to manage their reactions to stress or minor inconveniences. From a medical perspective, irritability may be linked to underlying conditions such as anxiety, depression, or hormonal imbalances. It can also be a transient response to external stressors, lack of sleep, or poor nutrition, reflecting the complex interplay between mental and physical health.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), irritability is viewed as a symptom arising from internal imbalances, particularly within the body's Qi, or vital energy. Unlike Western medicine, which may attribute irritability to psychological or hormonal factors, TCM considers it a sign of disharmony in specific organ systems, such as the Liver or Heart. Identifying the underlying pattern of disharmony is crucial, as different patterns require different treatment approaches to restore balance and alleviate irritability.
TCM Patterns for Irritability
Heat
Intense, ascending pathogenic force that consumes body fluids, disturbs the mind, and accelerates all physiological processes
Causes: Irritability, Short temper
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.
Bright Yang Fire in Stomach and Intestines
Irritability
Along with: Afternoon fever, Excessive sweating, Sweating on limbs, Abdominal fullness, Abdominal pain, Constipation, Dry stools, Thirst, Dark urine, Anal burning, Delirium
Bright Yang Stomach Heat
Irritability
Along with: High fever, Excessive sweating, Excessive thirst, Flushed face, Feeling of heat, Delirium
Damp-Heat in the Gallbladder
Irritability
Along with: Hypochondriac pain, Hypochondriac distention, Nausea or vomiting, Fat malabsorption, Dull yellow complexion, Scanty and dark urine, Fever, Dry mouth without desire to drink, Bitter taste in the mouth, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Feeling of heaviness, Limb numbness, Foot edema, Alternating diarrhea and constipation, Alternating sensation of hot and cold, Yellow sclera
Heat in the Blood
Irritability
Along with: Feeling of heat, Red skin eruptions, Thirst, Frequent bleeding, Bloody sputum, Hematochezia, Hematuria, Vomiting blood, Cough of blood, Nosebleeds, Excessive menstruation
Lesser Yin Heat Transformation
Irritability
Along with: Feeling of heat, Insomnia, Dry mouth and throat at night, Dark urine, Night sweats
Liver Fire Blazing
Irritability
Along with: Anger, Tinnitus, Deafness, Temporal headache, Dizziness, Flushed face, Eye hyperemia, Thirst, Bitter taste in the mouth, Vivid dreaming, Constipation, Dry stools, Dark urine, Nosebleeds, Cough of blood, Vomiting blood
Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Fire
Irritability
Along with: Tremors, Anger, Tinnitus, Deafness, Temporal headache, Dizziness, Flushed face, Eye hyperemia, Thirst, Bitter taste in the mouth, Vivid dreaming, Constipation, Dry stools, Dark urine, Nosebleeds, Vomiting blood, Cough of blood
Stagnant Liver Qi turning into Fire
Irritability
Along with: Hypochondriac distention, Upper abdominal distension, Stifling sensation in the chest, Melancholia, Depression, Mood swings, Globus sensation, Feeling of heat, Flushed face, Thirst, Anger, Pre menstrual tension, Irregular periods, Pre menstrual breast distension, Excessive menstruation
Obstruction Of the Spleen By Dampness with Liver Qi Stagnation
Irritability
Along with: Upper abdominal oppression, Nausea, Loss of appetite, Diarrhea, Feeling of heaviness, Dry mouth without desire to drink, Dull shallow face, Upper abdominal distension, Hypochondriac distention, Hypochondriac pain
Stomach Heat or Fire
Irritability
Along with: Upper abdominal burning pain, Excessive thirst, Craving for cold beverages, Restlessness, Dry stools, Dry mouth, Mouth ulcers, Acid reflux, Nausea, Vomiting after eating, Excessive hunger, Bad breath, Feeling of heat, Acne
Wind Cold with Internal Heat
Irritability
Along with: High fever, Severe chills, Lack of sweating, Headaches, Feeling of heaviness, General sensation of tightness, Flushed face, Eye hyperemia, Dry nose, Thirst, Insomnia, Cough of blood, Mottled skin
Exterior Cold invading with Interior Heat from Stagnation
Irritability
Along with: Fever without perspiration, Body pain, Thirst, Upper respiratory tract infections, Influenza, Purulent keratitis, Viral conjunctivitis, Sinusitis, Bronchial asthma, Viral pneumonia
Liver Qi Stagnation with Spleen Qi Deficiency that transforms into Heat
Irritability
Along with: Spontaneous sweat, Eye hyperemia, Dry mouth, Palpitations, Lower abdominal oppression, Painful urination, Excessive menstruation, Abnormal uterine bleeding, Tidal fever, Infertility
Liver Qi Stagnation that transforms into Heat
Irritability
Along with: Intermittent upper abdominal pain, Hernia-Related pain, Dysmenorrhea exacerbated by hot food or drinks, Bitter taste in the mouth, Peptic ulcer, Chronic gastritis, Hepatitis, Cholecystitis
Heat Excess in the Liver or Gallbladder
Irritability, Short temper
Along with: Hypochondriac pain, Headaches, Dizziness, Red and irritated eyes, Hearing loss, Ear swelling, Bitter taste in the mouth, Painful urination, Swollen and itchy external genitalia, Foul-Smelling vaginal discharge
Excess-Heat
Irritability
Along with: Fever, Flushed face, Red skin eruptions, Mottled skin, Thirst, Arthritis, Constipation, Scanty and dark urine, Lupus
Empty-Heat caused by Yin Deficiency
Irritability
Along with: Nighttime fever, Emaciation, Chronic pyelonephritis, Pulmonary tuberculosis, Renal tuberculosis, Tidal fever, Hot palms and soles, Red skin eruptions, Night sweats, Generalized fatigue
Heat invading the Pericardium
Irritability
Along with: Fever, Restlessness, Feeling of uneasiness, Incoherent or confused speech, Loss of consciousness, Viral encephalitis, Meningitis, Pertussis, Measles induced pneumonia, Mouth ulcers
Heat and Blood Stagnation in the Lower Burner
Irritability
Along with: Lower abdominal pain, Nighttime fever, Incoherent or confused speech, Restlessness, Thirst, Amenorrhea, Menstrual cramps, Uterine fibroids, Retained placenta, Prolonged lochia
Damp-Heat in the Liver Channel
Irritability
Along with: Vulvar itching, Yellow vaginal discharge, Painful intercourse, Restlessness, Insomnia, Dark urine, Excessive vaginal discharge, Foul-Smelling vaginal discharge, Sticky vaginal discharge, Vaginal itching
Stomach Fire or Stomach Heat
Irritability
Along with: Toothache, Headaches, Loose teeth, Bleeding gums, Thirst, Stomatitis, Periodontitis, Glossitis, Trigeminal neuralgia, Bad breath
Qi Stagnation
Blocked or disrupted flow of vital energy causing distending pain, emotional distress, and symptoms that worsen with stress
Causes: Irritability, Pre-menstrual irritability
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.
Liver Qi Stagnation
Irritability
Along with: Hypochondriac distention, Chest distension, Upper abdominal distension, Abdominal distention, Sighing, Melancholia, Depression, Mood swings, Irregular periods, Globus sensation, Pre menstrual breast distension, Pre menstrual tension, Anxiety, Anger, Melasma
Qi And Blood Stagnation
Irritability, Pre-menstrual irritability
Along with: Chest distension, Chest pain, Stabbing fixed pain, Dark face, Purple lips, Purple nails, Mood swings, Depression, Mottled skin, Foot edema, Abdominal masses, Melena black tarry stool, Menstrual cramps, Amenorrhea, Dark menstrual clots, Dark menstrual blood, Prolonged lochia, Irregular periods, Melasma
Qi Stagnation
Irritability
Along with: General fullness, Moving pain, Depression, Mood swings, Sighing
Stagnant Liver Qi turning into Fire
Irritability
Along with: Hypochondriac distention, Upper abdominal distension, Stifling sensation in the chest, Melancholia, Depression, Mood swings, Globus sensation, Feeling of heat, Flushed face, Thirst, Anger, Pre menstrual tension, Irregular periods, Pre menstrual breast distension, Excessive menstruation
Obstruction Of the Spleen By Dampness with Liver Qi Stagnation
Irritability
Along with: Upper abdominal oppression, Nausea, Loss of appetite, Diarrhea, Feeling of heaviness, Dry mouth without desire to drink, Dull shallow face, Upper abdominal distension, Hypochondriac distention, Hypochondriac pain
Pericardium Qi Stagnation
Irritability
Along with: Mild chest pain, Chest distension, Stifling sensation in the chest, Sighing, Throat lumps, Palpitations, Depression, Loss of appetite, Weak limbs, Cold extremities
Qi-Phlegm
Irritability
Along with: Globus sensation, Dysphagia, Upper abdominal oppression, Mood swings, Depression
Stomach Qi Stagnation
Irritability
Along with: Upper abdominal pain, Upper abdominal distension, Belching, Nausea, Vomit, Hiccups
Liver Qi Stagnation with Spleen Qi Deficiency that transforms into Heat
Irritability
Along with: Spontaneous sweat, Eye hyperemia, Dry mouth, Palpitations, Lower abdominal oppression, Painful urination, Excessive menstruation, Abnormal uterine bleeding, Tidal fever, Infertility
Liver Qi Stagnation that transforms into Heat
Irritability
Along with: Intermittent upper abdominal pain, Hernia-Related pain, Dysmenorrhea exacerbated by hot food or drinks, Bitter taste in the mouth, Peptic ulcer, Chronic gastritis, Hepatitis, Cholecystitis
Liver Qi Stagnation invading the Stomach
Irritability
Along with: Belching, Abdominal distention, Upper abdominal distension, Depression, Dry mouth, Loss of appetite, Craving for sour foods, Dry throat, Acid reflux, Vomiting undigested food
Yin Deficiency
Depletion of cooling, moistening fluids causing dryness, false heat rising, and restless agitation throughout the body
Causes: Irritability
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.
Lesser Yin Heat Transformation
Irritability
Along with: Feeling of heat, Insomnia, Dry mouth and throat at night, Dark urine, Night sweats
Liver Yang Rising with Blood and Yin Deficiency
Irritability
Along with: Insomnia, Occasional palpitations, Anxiety, Dizziness
Kidney Yin Deficiency
Irritability
Along with: Excessive sweating, Back pain, Hearing loss, Dry mouth and throat at night, Lower back pain, Constipation, Scanty and dark urine, Infertility, Premature ejaculation, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Depression, Anxiety, Heat sensation in palms, Evening heat sensation, Flushed cheekbones, Menopausal hot flashes, Preference for sipping, Evening anxiety
Yin Deficiency
Irritability
Along with: Heat sensation in palms, Emaciation, Sore throat at night, Thirst, Anxiety, Jumpy, Scanty and dark urine, Dry stools, Dry mouth and throat at night, Nocturnal emission, Pain relieved by pressure and cold, Preference for sipping
Deficiency of both the Kidney Yin and Yang
Irritability
Along with: Menopausal symptoms, Hypertension, Irregular periods, Menopausal hot flashes, Excessive sweating, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Depression, Palpitations, Frequent urination
Empty-Heat caused by Yin Deficiency
Irritability
Along with: Nighttime fever, Emaciation, Chronic pyelonephritis, Pulmonary tuberculosis, Renal tuberculosis, Tidal fever, Hot palms and soles, Red skin eruptions, Night sweats, Generalized fatigue
Yin and Blood Deficiency
Irritability
Along with: Heart palpitations with anxiety, Generalized fatigue, Restless sleeplessness, Poor concentration, Nocturnal emission, Poor memory, Dry stools, Mouth ulcers, Menopausal symptoms, Chronic urticaria
Wind
Causes sudden symptoms, movement disorders, and serves as the vehicle for other pathogens
Causes: Irritability
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.
Bright Yang Fire in Stomach and Intestines
Irritability
Along with: Afternoon fever, Excessive sweating, Sweating on limbs, Abdominal fullness, Abdominal pain, Constipation, Dry stools, Thirst, Dark urine, Anal burning, Delirium
Bright Yang Stomach Heat
Irritability
Along with: High fever, Excessive sweating, Excessive thirst, Flushed face, Feeling of heat, Delirium
Interior Wind
Irritability
Along with: Convulsions, Hand tremor, Dizziness, Paralysis, Coma, Tic disorder, Mouth deviation, Eye deviation, Tremors, Headaches, Limb numbness
Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Fire
Irritability
Along with: Tremors, Anger, Tinnitus, Deafness, Temporal headache, Dizziness, Flushed face, Eye hyperemia, Thirst, Bitter taste in the mouth, Vivid dreaming, Constipation, Dry stools, Dark urine, Nosebleeds, Vomiting blood, Cough of blood
Wind Cold with Internal Heat
Irritability
Along with: High fever, Severe chills, Lack of sweating, Headaches, Feeling of heaviness, General sensation of tightness, Flushed face, Eye hyperemia, Dry nose, Thirst, Insomnia, Cough of blood, Mottled skin
Cold
Congeals body fluids, damages Yang Qi, and causes pain with fixed location
Causes: Irritability
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.
Bright Yang Fire in Stomach and Intestines
Irritability
Along with: Afternoon fever, Excessive sweating, Sweating on limbs, Abdominal fullness, Abdominal pain, Constipation, Dry stools, Thirst, Dark urine, Anal burning, Delirium
Bright Yang Stomach Heat
Irritability
Along with: High fever, Excessive sweating, Excessive thirst, Flushed face, Feeling of heat, Delirium
Wind Cold with Internal Heat
Irritability
Along with: High fever, Severe chills, Lack of sweating, Headaches, Feeling of heaviness, General sensation of tightness, Flushed face, Eye hyperemia, Dry nose, Thirst, Insomnia, Cough of blood, Mottled skin
Exterior Cold invading with Interior Heat from Stagnation
Irritability
Along with: Fever without perspiration, Body pain, Thirst, Upper respiratory tract infections, Influenza, Purulent keratitis, Viral conjunctivitis, Sinusitis, Bronchial asthma, Viral pneumonia
Blood Stasis
Blood that is no longer flowing smoothly through the vessels
Causes: Irritability, Pre-menstrual irritability
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.
Qi And Blood Stagnation
Irritability, Pre-menstrual irritability
Along with: Chest distension, Chest pain, Stabbing fixed pain, Dark face, Purple lips, Purple nails, Mood swings, Depression, Mottled skin, Foot edema, Abdominal masses, Melena black tarry stool, Menstrual cramps, Amenorrhea, Dark menstrual clots, Dark menstrual blood, Prolonged lochia, Irregular periods, Melasma
Blood Stagnation in the Directing and Penetrating Vessels
Irritability
Along with: Irregular periods, Brown vaginal discharge, Dark menstrual clots, Menstrual cramps, Dark menstrual blood, Prolonged lochia, Lower abdominal pain, Umbilical pain, Breast engorgement, Breast pain
Heat and Blood Stagnation in the Lower Burner
Irritability
Along with: Lower abdominal pain, Nighttime fever, Incoherent or confused speech, Restlessness, Thirst, Amenorrhea, Menstrual cramps, Uterine fibroids, Retained placenta, Prolonged lochia
Phlegm
Thick, sticky pathological fluid that obstructs body functions and can manifest anywhere in the body
Causes: Irritability
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."
Phlegm-Fluids in the limbs
Irritability
Along with: Feeling of heaviness, Muscle pain, Lack of sweating, Absence of thirst, Profuse white sputum, Swollen limbs, Urinary dysfunction
Phlegm
Irritability
Along with: Stifling sensation in the chest, Head fog, Dizziness
Qi-Phlegm
Irritability
Along with: Globus sensation, Dysphagia, Upper abdominal oppression, Mood swings, Depression
Yang Excess
Excessive yang energy that generates heat, agitation, and hyperactivity throughout the body systems
Causes: Irritability
Yang Excess represents pathological hyperactivity of the body's yang qi in Traditional Chinese Medicine. It manifests as excessive heat, inflammation, and overstimulation that disrupts the normal balance between yin and yang, causing various acute and intense symptoms.
Liver Yang Rising
Irritability
Along with: Headaches, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Deafness, Blurry vision, Dry mouth, Dry throat, Insomnia, Exhaustion, Anger, Stiff neck, Shoulder stiffness, Stiff upper back
Liver Yang Rising with Blood and Yin Deficiency
Irritability
Along with: Insomnia, Occasional palpitations, Anxiety, Dizziness
Yang Excess or Full Yang
Irritability
Along with: Feeling of heat, Hyperactivity, Lack of sweating, Heat intolerance, Constipation
Qi Rebellion
Qi flowing against its natural direction, typically surging upward when it should descend
Causes: Irritability
Qi Rebellion represents a fundamental disruption in the body's energy flow, where qi moves against its proper direction - like water flowing uphill or smoke sinking downward. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, each organ has a natural directional flow for its qi, and when this flow reverses, it creates a cascade of symptoms that shoot upward through the body.
Rebellious Liver Qi
Irritability
Along with: Hypochondriac distention, Upper abdominal distension, Hiccups, Sighing, Nausea or vomiting, Belching, Stomach churning, Breast engorgement, Headaches, Dizziness
Rebellious Liver Qi invading the Spleen
Irritability
Along with: Abdominal distention, Abdominal pain, Alternating diarrhea and constipation, Dry stools, Excessive gas and flatulence, Generalized fatigue
Rebellious Liver Qi invading the Stomach
Irritability
Along with: Upper abdominal pain, Upper abdominal distension, Hypochondriac pain, Hypochondriac distention, Upper abdominal oppression, Acid reflux, Hiccups, Belching, Nausea or vomiting, Sighing, Weak limbs
Dampness
Heavy, sticky moisture that obstructs body functions and creates sluggishness
Causes: Irritability
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-Heat in the Gallbladder
Irritability
Along with: Hypochondriac pain, Hypochondriac distention, Nausea or vomiting, Fat malabsorption, Dull yellow complexion, Scanty and dark urine, Fever, Dry mouth without desire to drink, Bitter taste in the mouth, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Feeling of heaviness, Limb numbness, Foot edema, Alternating diarrhea and constipation, Alternating sensation of hot and cold, Yellow sclera
Obstruction Of the Spleen By Dampness with Liver Qi Stagnation
Irritability
Along with: Upper abdominal oppression, Nausea, Loss of appetite, Diarrhea, Feeling of heaviness, Dry mouth without desire to drink, Dull shallow face, Upper abdominal distension, Hypochondriac distention, Hypochondriac pain
Damp-Heat in the Liver Channel
Irritability
Along with: Vulvar itching, Yellow vaginal discharge, Painful intercourse, Restlessness, Insomnia, Dark urine, Excessive vaginal discharge, Foul-Smelling vaginal discharge, Sticky vaginal discharge, Vaginal itching
Yang Deficiency
Insufficient yang qi causing coldness, fatigue, and diminished physiological functions throughout the body
Causes: Irritability
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.
Deficiency of both the Kidney Yin and Yang
Irritability
Along with: Menopausal symptoms, Hypertension, Irregular periods, Menopausal hot flashes, Excessive sweating, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Depression, Palpitations, Frequent urination
Disharmony between Heart and Kidneys caused by Kidney Yang Deficiency
Irritability
Along with: Restlessness, Severe heart palpitations, Cold sensation in lower limbs, Insomnia, Anxiety, Mental exhaustion, Dysautonomia, Hypertension
Qi Deficiency
Insufficient vital energy causing fatigue, weakness, poor digestion, and reduced function of organs and protective systems
Causes: Irritability
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.
Liver Qi Deficiency
Irritability
Along with: Dizziness, Blurry vision, Eye floaters, Nervousness, Timidity, Easily startled, Lack of courage, Indecision, Sighing, Vivid dreaming, Depression, Hypochondriac distention, Irregular periods, Loss of appetite, Generalized fatigue, Abdominal distention
Liver Qi Stagnation with Spleen Qi Deficiency that transforms into Heat
Irritability
Along with: Spontaneous sweat, Eye hyperemia, Dry mouth, Palpitations, Lower abdominal oppression, Painful urination, Excessive menstruation, Abnormal uterine bleeding, Tidal fever, Infertility
Blood Deficiency
Insufficient blood to nourish the body, causing paleness, dizziness, and dryness throughout the system
Causes: Irritability
Blood Deficiency represents a fundamental lack of blood volume or quality in the body, resulting in organs, tissues, and the mind being undernourished. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, blood not only refers to the red fluid in our vessels but encompasses the body's entire nourishing and moistening functions.
Liver Yang Rising with Blood and Yin Deficiency
Irritability
Along with: Insomnia, Occasional palpitations, Anxiety, Dizziness
Yin and Blood Deficiency
Irritability
Along with: Heart palpitations with anxiety, Generalized fatigue, Restless sleeplessness, Poor concentration, Nocturnal emission, Poor memory, Dry stools, Mouth ulcers, Menopausal symptoms, Chronic urticaria
Summer Heat
Intense summer heat that rapidly depletes both energy and fluids
Causes: Irritability
Summer-Heat (暑 Shǔ) is a unique pathogenic factor in Traditional Chinese Medicine that only occurs during summer. Unlike other disease-causing factors in TCM that can arise internally or externally, Summer-Heat always comes from the environment - specifically from exposure to intense summer heat and humidity.
Summer-Heat
Irritability
Along with: Fever, Aversion to cold, Excessive sweating, Headaches, Feeling of heaviness, Upper abdominal discomfort, Thirst
Summer-Heat entering the Lesser Yin and Terminal Yin warps
Irritability
Along with: Wasting, Thirst, Cardiac burning sensation, Restlessness, Paralysis, Loss of consciousness, Abnormal behavior, Muscle numbness, Muscle spasm
Mind Disturbance
Disruption of consciousness, mental clarity, and emotional equilibrium causing restlessness, confusion, or withdrawal
Causes: Irritability
Mind Disturbance represents a broad category of patterns in Traditional Chinese Medicine involving disruptions to consciousness, mental clarity, emotional stability, and cognitive function. These patterns affect the Shen (spirit/consciousness), which according to classical texts resides in the Heart and is distributed among the five organs.
Heat invading the Pericardium
Irritability
Along with: Fever, Restlessness, Feeling of uneasiness, Incoherent or confused speech, Loss of consciousness, Viral encephalitis, Meningitis, Pertussis, Measles induced pneumonia, Mouth ulcers
Herbal Formulas for Irritability
Traditional Chinese Medicine formulas used to address irritability
Ban Xia Hou Pu Tang
Addresses these irritability patterns:
Main Actions
- Regulates the flow of Qi,
- Clears Phlegm
- Treats esophageal spasm
- Descends Rebellious Qi
- Dissipates clumps
- Relieves Stagnation
Addresses These Irritability Pattern Variations
Phlegm
How it manifests:
Irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Stifling sensation in the chest, Head fog, Dizziness
Liver Qi Stagnation invading the Stomach
How it manifests:
Irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Belching, Abdominal distention, Upper abdominal distension, Depression, Dry mouth, Loss of appetite...
Pericardium Qi Stagnation
How it manifests:
Irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Mild chest pain, Chest distension, Stifling sensation in the chest, Sighing, Throat lumps, Palpitations...
Qi-Phlegm
How it manifests:
Irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Globus sensation, Dysphagia, Upper abdominal oppression, Mood swings, Depression
Rebellious Liver Qi invading the Stomach
How it manifests:
Irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Upper abdominal pain, Upper abdominal distension, Hypochondriac pain, Hypochondriac distention, Upper abdominal oppression, Acid reflux...
Stomach Qi Stagnation
How it manifests:
Irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Upper abdominal pain, Upper abdominal distension, Belching, Nausea, Vomit, Hiccups
Jia Wei Xiao Yao San
Addresses these irritability patterns:
Main Actions
- Clears Liver and Spleen Qi Stagnation
- Tonifies Spleen
- Clears Deficient Heat
- Nourishes the blood
- Clears Liver Fire from Stagnant Liver Qi
Addresses These Irritability Pattern Variations
Qi And Blood Stagnation
How it manifests:
Irritability, Pre-menstrual irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Chest distension, Chest pain, Stabbing fixed pain, Dark face, Purple lips, Purple nails...
Heat in the Blood
How it manifests:
Irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Feeling of heat, Red skin eruptions, Thirst, Frequent bleeding, Bloody sputum, Hematochezia...
Liver Qi Stagnation with Spleen Qi Deficiency that transforms into Heat
How it manifests:
Irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Spontaneous sweat, Eye hyperemia, Dry mouth, Palpitations, Lower abdominal oppression, Painful urination...
Liver Qi Stagnation
How it manifests:
Irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Hypochondriac distention, Chest distension, Upper abdominal distension, Abdominal distention, Sighing, Melancholia...
Stagnant Liver Qi turning into Fire
How it manifests:
Irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Hypochondriac distention, Upper abdominal distension, Stifling sensation in the chest, Melancholia, Depression, Mood swings...
Xiao Yao San
Addresses these irritability patterns:
Main Actions
- Harmonizes the function of Liver and Spleen
- Relieves Liver Qi stagnation
- Nourishes the Blood
Addresses These Irritability Pattern Variations
Liver Qi Stagnation
How it manifests:
Irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Hypochondriac distention, Chest distension, Upper abdominal distension, Abdominal distention, Sighing, Melancholia...
Qi Stagnation
How it manifests:
Irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
General fullness, Moving pain, Depression, Mood swings, Sighing
Liver Qi Deficiency
How it manifests:
Irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Dizziness, Blurry vision, Eye floaters, Nervousness, Timidity, Easily startled...
Rebellious Liver Qi invading the Spleen
How it manifests:
Irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Abdominal distention, Abdominal pain, Alternating diarrhea and constipation, Dry stools, Excessive gas and flatulence, Generalized fatigue
Qi And Blood Stagnation
How it manifests:
Irritability, Pre-menstrual irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Chest distension, Chest pain, Stabbing fixed pain, Dark face, Purple lips, Purple nails...
Chai Hu Shu Gan San
Addresses these irritability patterns:
Main Actions
- Disperses Stagnant Liver Qi and Blood
- Alleviates pain
- Harmonizes Blood
Addresses These Irritability Pattern Variations
Liver Qi Stagnation
How it manifests:
Irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Hypochondriac distention, Chest distension, Upper abdominal distension, Abdominal distention, Sighing, Melancholia...
Qi Stagnation
How it manifests:
Irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
General fullness, Moving pain, Depression, Mood swings, Sighing
Qi And Blood Stagnation
How it manifests:
Irritability, Pre-menstrual irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Chest distension, Chest pain, Stabbing fixed pain, Dark face, Purple lips, Purple nails...
Rebellious Liver Qi
How it manifests:
Irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Hypochondriac distention, Upper abdominal distension, Hiccups, Sighing, Nausea or vomiting, Belching...
Ling Jiao Gou Teng Tang
Addresses these irritability patterns:
Main Actions
- Cools the Liver
- Extinguishes Wind
- Increases Fluids
- Relaxes the sinews
Addresses These Irritability Pattern Variations
Interior Wind
How it manifests:
Irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Convulsions, Hand tremor, Dizziness, Paralysis, Coma, Tic disorder...
Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Fire
How it manifests:
Irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Tremors, Anger, Tinnitus, Deafness, Temporal headache, Dizziness...
Liver Yang Rising
How it manifests:
Irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Headaches, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Deafness, Blurry vision, Dry mouth...
Qi Ju Di Huang Wan
Addresses these irritability patterns:
Main Actions
- Nourishes Kidney and Liver Yin
- Improves vision
Addresses These Irritability Pattern Variations
Interior Wind
How it manifests:
Irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Convulsions, Hand tremor, Dizziness, Paralysis, Coma, Tic disorder...
Liver Yang Rising
How it manifests:
Irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Headaches, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Deafness, Blurry vision, Dry mouth...
Kidney Yin Deficiency
How it manifests:
Irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Excessive sweating, Back pain, Hearing loss, Dry mouth and throat at night, Lower back pain, Constipation...
Si Wu Tang
Addresses these irritability patterns:
Main Actions
- Restores and nourishes Blood
- Stimulates Blood circulation
Addresses These Irritability Pattern Variations
Interior Wind
How it manifests:
Irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Convulsions, Hand tremor, Dizziness, Paralysis, Coma, Tic disorder...
Liver Qi Deficiency
How it manifests:
Irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Dizziness, Blurry vision, Eye floaters, Nervousness, Timidity, Easily startled...
Qi And Blood Stagnation
How it manifests:
Irritability, Pre-menstrual irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Chest distension, Chest pain, Stabbing fixed pain, Dark face, Purple lips, Purple nails...
Wu Yao Tang
Addresses these irritability patterns:
Main Actions
- Pacifies the Liver
- Moves Qi
- Stops pain
- Nourishes Liver Blood
- Eliminates Stagnation
Addresses These Irritability Pattern Variations
Qi And Blood Stagnation
How it manifests:
Irritability, Pre-menstrual irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Chest distension, Chest pain, Stabbing fixed pain, Dark face, Purple lips, Purple nails...
Liver Qi Stagnation
How it manifests:
Irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Hypochondriac distention, Chest distension, Upper abdominal distension, Abdominal distention, Sighing, Melancholia...
Qi Stagnation
How it manifests:
Irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
General fullness, Moving pain, Depression, Mood swings, Sighing
Da Qing Long Tang
Addresses these irritability patterns:
Main Actions
- Promotes sweating
- Releases the Exterior
- Clears Interior Heat
Addresses These Irritability Pattern Variations
Exterior Cold invading with Interior Heat from Stagnation
How it manifests:
Irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Fever without perspiration, Body pain, Thirst, Upper respiratory tract infections, Influenza, Purulent keratitis...
Phlegm-Fluids in the limbs
How it manifests:
Irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Feeling of heaviness, Muscle pain, Lack of sweating, Absence of thirst, Profuse white sputum, Swollen limbs...
Dan Zhi Xiao Yao San
Addresses these irritability patterns:
Main Actions
- Clears Liver Fire from Stagnant Liver Qi
Addresses These Irritability Pattern Variations
Kidney Yin Deficiency
How it manifests:
Irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Excessive sweating, Back pain, Hearing loss, Dry mouth and throat at night, Lower back pain, Constipation...
Stagnant Liver Qi turning into Fire
How it manifests:
Irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Hypochondriac distention, Upper abdominal distension, Stifling sensation in the chest, Melancholia, Depression, Mood swings...
Hua Ban Tang
Addresses these irritability patterns:
Main Actions
- Clears Qi-level Heat
- Cools the Blood
Addresses These Irritability Pattern Variations
Heat in the Blood
How it manifests:
Irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Feeling of heat, Red skin eruptions, Thirst, Frequent bleeding, Bloody sputum, Hematochezia...
Stomach Heat or Fire
How it manifests:
Irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Upper abdominal burning pain, Excessive thirst, Craving for cold beverages, Restlessness, Dry stools, Dry mouth...
Jin Ling Zi San
Addresses these irritability patterns:
Main Actions
- Moves Liver Blood and Liver Qi
- Drains Liver Heat or Fire
- Stops pain
Addresses These Irritability Pattern Variations
Liver Qi Stagnation that transforms into Heat
How it manifests:
Irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Intermittent upper abdominal pain, Hernia-Related pain, Dysmenorrhea exacerbated by hot food or drinks, Bitter taste in the mouth, Peptic ulcer, Chronic gastritis...
Qi And Blood Stagnation
How it manifests:
Irritability, Pre-menstrual irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Chest distension, Chest pain, Stabbing fixed pain, Dark face, Purple lips, Purple nails...
Si Mo Tang
Addresses these irritability patterns:
Main Actions
- Promotes the movement of Qi
- Directs rebellious Qi downward
- Expands the chest and dissipates clumping
Addresses These Irritability Pattern Variations
Qi Stagnation
How it manifests:
Irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
General fullness, Moving pain, Depression, Mood swings, Sighing
Rebellious Liver Qi invading the Stomach
How it manifests:
Irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Upper abdominal pain, Upper abdominal distension, Hypochondriac pain, Hypochondriac distention, Upper abdominal oppression, Acid reflux...
Tian Ma Gou Teng Yin
Addresses these irritability patterns:
Main Actions
- Calms the Liver
- Extinguishes wind
- Invigorates the blood
- Clears heat
- Tonifies the Liver and Kidneys
Addresses These Irritability Pattern Variations
Interior Wind
How it manifests:
Irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Convulsions, Hand tremor, Dizziness, Paralysis, Coma, Tic disorder...
Liver Yang Rising
How it manifests:
Irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Headaches, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Deafness, Blurry vision, Dry mouth...
Tiao Wei Cheng Qi Tang
Addresses these irritability patterns:
Main Actions
- Removes Heat and Dryness in the Lower Burner
- Removes constipation
Addresses These Irritability Pattern Variations
Bright Yang Fire in Stomach and Intestines
How it manifests:
Irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Afternoon fever, Excessive sweating, Sweating on limbs, Abdominal fullness, Abdominal pain, Constipation...
Stomach Heat or Fire
How it manifests:
Irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Upper abdominal burning pain, Excessive thirst, Craving for cold beverages, Restlessness, Dry stools, Dry mouth...
Xi Jiao Di Huang Tang
Addresses these irritability patterns:
Main Actions
- Treats severe fevers and Heat in the Blood system
- Removes Blood Stagnation
Addresses These Irritability Pattern Variations
Heat in the Blood
How it manifests:
Irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Feeling of heat, Red skin eruptions, Thirst, Frequent bleeding, Bloody sputum, Hematochezia...
Excess-Heat
How it manifests:
Irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Fever, Flushed face, Red skin eruptions, Mottled skin, Thirst, Arthritis...
Yue Ju Wan
Addresses these irritability patterns:
Main Actions
- Promotes the movement of Qi
- Releases all types of Stagnation (Qi, Blood, Phlegm, Fire, Food and Dampness)
Addresses These Irritability Pattern Variations
Liver Qi Stagnation
How it manifests:
Irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Hypochondriac distention, Chest distension, Upper abdominal distension, Abdominal distention, Sighing, Melancholia...
Phlegm
How it manifests:
Irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Stifling sensation in the chest, Head fog, Dizziness
Zhen Zhu Mu Wan
Addresses these irritability patterns:
Main Actions
- Nourishes the Yin and Blood
- Sedates the Heart and calms the Mind
- Calms the Liver
- Anchors the yang
Addresses These Irritability Pattern Variations
Liver Yang Rising
How it manifests:
Irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Headaches, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Deafness, Blurry vision, Dry mouth...
Liver Yang Rising with Blood and Yin Deficiency
How it manifests:
Irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Insomnia, Occasional palpitations, Anxiety, Dizziness
Zuo Jin Wan
Addresses these irritability patterns:
Main Actions
- Clears Liver Heat
- Directs Rebellious Qi downward
- Stops vomiting
Addresses These Irritability Pattern Variations
Liver Qi Stagnation invading the Stomach
How it manifests:
Irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Belching, Abdominal distention, Upper abdominal distension, Depression, Dry mouth, Loss of appetite...
Stomach Qi Stagnation
How it manifests:
Irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Upper abdominal pain, Upper abdominal distension, Belching, Nausea, Vomit, Hiccups
Bai He Di Huang Tang
Addresses these irritability patterns:
Main Actions
- Moistens the Lungs
- Enriches the Body Fluids
- Clears Heat and cools the Blood
Addresses These Irritability Pattern Variations
Heat in the Blood
How it manifests:
Irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Feeling of heat, Red skin eruptions, Thirst, Frequent bleeding, Bloody sputum, Hematochezia...
Bai Hu Tang
Addresses these irritability patterns:
Main Actions
- Clears Qi-level Heat
- Drains Stomach Fire
- Generates fluids
- Alleviates thirst
Addresses These Irritability Pattern Variations
Bright Yang Stomach Heat
How it manifests:
Irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
High fever, Excessive sweating, Excessive thirst, Flushed face, Feeling of heat, Delirium
Bu Gan Tang
Addresses these irritability patterns:
Main Actions
- Tonifies and regulates the Blood
- Nourishes the Liver Yin
Addresses These Irritability Pattern Variations
Interior Wind
How it manifests:
Irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Convulsions, Hand tremor, Dizziness, Paralysis, Coma, Tic disorder...
Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang
Addresses these irritability patterns:
Main Actions
- Tonifies Qi of the Spleen and Stomach (Middle Burner)
- Raises the Yang
- Detoxifies
- Lifts what has sunken
Addresses These Irritability Pattern Variations
Liver Qi Deficiency
How it manifests:
Irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Dizziness, Blurry vision, Eye floaters, Nervousness, Timidity, Easily startled...
Da Chai Hu Tang
Addresses these irritability patterns:
Main Actions
- Harmonizes and releases the Lesser Yang
- Drains internal clumping due to Heat
Addresses These Irritability Pattern Variations
Liver Yang Rising
How it manifests:
Irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Headaches, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Deafness, Blurry vision, Dry mouth...
Da Cheng Qi Tang
Addresses these irritability patterns:
Main Actions
- Purges Heat from the Stomach and Intestines
- Relieves constipation
Addresses These Irritability Pattern Variations
Yang Excess or Full Yang
How it manifests:
Irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Feeling of heat, Hyperactivity, Lack of sweating, Heat intolerance, Constipation
Dan Shen Yin
Addresses these irritability patterns:
Main Actions
- Invigorates the Blood and removes Blood Stagnation
- Promote Qi movement
- Relieves pain
Addresses These Irritability Pattern Variations
Qi And Blood Stagnation
How it manifests:
Irritability, Pre-menstrual irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Chest distension, Chest pain, Stabbing fixed pain, Dark face, Purple lips, Purple nails...
Dang Gui Di Huang Yin
Addresses these irritability patterns:
Main Actions
- Nourishes Blood
- Tonifies Kidney and Liver Yin
- Regulates the menstrual cycle
Addresses These Irritability Pattern Variations
Kidney Yin Deficiency
How it manifests:
Irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Excessive sweating, Back pain, Hearing loss, Dry mouth and throat at night, Lower back pain, Constipation...
Dang Gui Long Hui Wan
Addresses these irritability patterns:
Main Actions
- Drains Liver and Gallbladder Fire Excess
Addresses These Irritability Pattern Variations
Liver Fire Blazing
How it manifests:
Irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Anger, Tinnitus, Deafness, Temporal headache, Dizziness, Flushed face...
Dang Gui Shao Yao San
Addresses these irritability patterns:
Main Actions
- Nourishes the Liver Blood
- Spreads the Liver Qi
- Strengthens the Spleen
- Resolves Dampness
Addresses These Irritability Pattern Variations
Obstruction Of the Spleen By Dampness with Liver Qi Stagnation
How it manifests:
Irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Upper abdominal oppression, Nausea, Loss of appetite, Diarrhea, Feeling of heaviness, Dry mouth without desire to drink...
Di Gu Pi Yin
Addresses these irritability patterns:
Main Actions
- Clears Heat
- Stops bleeding
Addresses These Irritability Pattern Variations
Heat in the Blood
How it manifests:
Irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Feeling of heat, Red skin eruptions, Thirst, Frequent bleeding, Bloody sputum, Hematochezia...
Ding Xiang Shi Di Tang
Addresses these irritability patterns:
Main Actions
- Augments the Qi
- Warms the Middle Burner
- Directs Rebellious Qi downward
- Stops hiccup
Addresses These Irritability Pattern Variations
Rebellious Liver Qi invading the Stomach
How it manifests:
Irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Upper abdominal pain, Upper abdominal distension, Hypochondriac pain, Hypochondriac distention, Upper abdominal oppression, Acid reflux...
E Jiao Ji Zi Huang Tang
Addresses these irritability patterns:
Main Actions
- Nourishes Yin
- Nourishes Blood
- Calms the Liver
- Extinguishes Wind
Addresses These Irritability Pattern Variations
Interior Wind
How it manifests:
Irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Convulsions, Hand tremor, Dizziness, Paralysis, Coma, Tic disorder...
Er Xian Tang
Addresses these irritability patterns:
Main Actions
- Nourishes Yin and tonifies Yang of the Kidneys
- Clears Empty Heat
- Regulates the Directing and Penetrating Vessels
Addresses These Irritability Pattern Variations
Deficiency of both the Kidney Yin and Yang
How it manifests:
Irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Menopausal symptoms, Hypertension, Irregular periods, Menopausal hot flashes, Excessive sweating, Generalized fatigue...
Fei Er Wan
Addresses these irritability patterns:
Main Actions
- Kills parasites
- Reduces accumulation
- Strengthens the Spleen
- Clears Heat
Addresses These Irritability Pattern Variations
Stomach Heat or Fire
How it manifests:
Irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Upper abdominal burning pain, Excessive thirst, Craving for cold beverages, Restlessness, Dry stools, Dry mouth...
Feng Yin Tang
Addresses these irritability patterns:
Main Actions
- Extinguishes and pacifies Wind with heavy medicinals
- Calms the Mind
- Clears Heat
Addresses These Irritability Pattern Variations
Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Fire
How it manifests:
Irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Tremors, Anger, Tinnitus, Deafness, Temporal headache, Dizziness...
Ge Xia Zhu Yu Tang
Addresses these irritability patterns:
Main Actions
- Invigorates Blood
- Eliminates Blood Stagnation below the diaphragm
- Stops pain
- Promotes Qi movement
Addresses These Irritability Pattern Variations
Qi And Blood Stagnation
How it manifests:
Irritability, Pre-menstrual irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Chest distension, Chest pain, Stabbing fixed pain, Dark face, Purple lips, Purple nails...
Gu Jing Wan
Addresses these irritability patterns:
Main Actions
- Nourishes Yin
- Clears Heat
- Stops bleeding
- Stabilizes the menses
Addresses These Irritability Pattern Variations
Heat in the Blood
How it manifests:
Irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Feeling of heat, Red skin eruptions, Thirst, Frequent bleeding, Bloody sputum, Hematochezia...
Gua Lou San
Addresses these irritability patterns:
Main Actions
- Remove breast carbuncle (mastitis) after birth giving
Addresses These Irritability Pattern Variations
Liver Qi Stagnation
How it manifests:
Irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Hypochondriac distention, Chest distension, Upper abdominal distension, Abdominal distention, Sighing, Melancholia...
Gui Zhi Fu Ling Wan
Addresses these irritability patterns:
Main Actions
- Invigorates the Blood
- Transforms Blood Stasis
- Softens lumps
- Reduces fixed abdominal pain
Addresses These Irritability Pattern Variations
Blood Stagnation in the Directing and Penetrating Vessels
How it manifests:
Irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Irregular periods, Brown vaginal discharge, Dark menstrual clots, Menstrual cramps, Dark menstrual blood, Prolonged lochia...
Guo Qi Yin
Addresses these irritability patterns:
Main Actions
- Warms the menses
- Dispels blood Stagnation
- Nourishes the blood
Addresses These Irritability Pattern Variations
Qi And Blood Stagnation
How it manifests:
Irritability, Pre-menstrual irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Chest distension, Chest pain, Stabbing fixed pain, Dark face, Purple lips, Purple nails...
Huang Lian E Jiao Tang
Addresses these irritability patterns:
Main Actions
- Enriches the Yin
- Causes Fire to descend
- Eliminates irritability
- Calms the spirit
Addresses These Irritability Pattern Variations
Lesser Yin Heat Transformation
How it manifests:
Irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Feeling of heat, Insomnia, Dry mouth and throat at night, Dark urine, Night sweats
Jiao Tai Wan
Addresses these irritability patterns:
Main Actions
- Restores the functional communication between the Heart and the Kidneys
Addresses These Irritability Pattern Variations
Disharmony between Heart and Kidneys caused by Kidney Yang Deficiency
How it manifests:
Irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Restlessness, Severe heart palpitations, Cold sensation in lower limbs, Insomnia, Anxiety, Mental exhaustion...
Ju Pi Zhu Ru Tang
Addresses these irritability patterns:
Main Actions
- Directs rebellious Qi downward
- Stops hiccup
- Augments Qi
- Clears heat
Addresses These Irritability Pattern Variations
Rebellious Liver Qi invading the Stomach
How it manifests:
Irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Upper abdominal pain, Upper abdominal distension, Hypochondriac pain, Hypochondriac distention, Upper abdominal oppression, Acid reflux...
Liang Di Tang
Addresses these irritability patterns:
Main Actions
- Nourishes Yin
- Cools Blood
- Stop bleeding
Addresses These Irritability Pattern Variations
Heat in the Blood
How it manifests:
Irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Feeling of heat, Red skin eruptions, Thirst, Frequent bleeding, Bloody sputum, Hematochezia...
Liu Wei Di Huang Wan
Addresses these irritability patterns:
Main Actions
- Enriches the yin and nourishes the Kidneys
Addresses These Irritability Pattern Variations
Yin Deficiency
How it manifests:
Irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Heat sensation in palms, Emaciation, Sore throat at night, Thirst, Anxiety, Jumpy...
Liu Yi San
Addresses these irritability patterns:
Main Actions
- Clears Summer-Heat
- Drains Dampness
- Supplements Qi
Addresses These Irritability Pattern Variations
Summer-Heat
How it manifests:
Irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Fever, Aversion to cold, Excessive sweating, Headaches, Feeling of heaviness, Upper abdominal discomfort...
Mu Li San
Addresses these irritability patterns:
Main Actions
- Inhibits sweating
- Stabilizes the exterior
Addresses These Irritability Pattern Variations
Yin Deficiency
How it manifests:
Irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Heat sensation in palms, Emaciation, Sore throat at night, Thirst, Anxiety, Jumpy...
Niu Huang Qing Xin Wan
Addresses these irritability patterns:
Main Actions
- Clears Heat and resolves Toxicity
- Calms the Mind
- Opens up the Orifices
Addresses These Irritability Pattern Variations
Heat invading the Pericardium
How it manifests:
Irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Fever, Restlessness, Feeling of uneasiness, Incoherent or confused speech, Loss of consciousness, Viral encephalitis...
Ping Wei San
Addresses these irritability patterns:
Main Actions
- Dries Dampness
- Improves the Spleen's transportive function
- Promotes the movement of Qi
- Harmonizes the Stomach
Addresses These Irritability Pattern Variations
Obstruction Of the Spleen By Dampness with Liver Qi Stagnation
How it manifests:
Irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Upper abdominal oppression, Nausea, Loss of appetite, Diarrhea, Feeling of heaviness, Dry mouth without desire to drink...
Qi Ge San
Addresses these irritability patterns:
Main Actions
- Regulates Qi and removes Stagnation
- Moistens Dryness
- Transforms Phlegm
Addresses These Irritability Pattern Variations
Qi Stagnation
How it manifests:
Irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
General fullness, Moving pain, Depression, Mood swings, Sighing
Qi Li San
Addresses these irritability patterns:
Main Actions
- Invigorates the blood and removes Blood Stagnation
- Invigorates Qi
- Reduces swelling and pain
- Stops bleeding
Addresses These Irritability Pattern Variations
Qi And Blood Stagnation
How it manifests:
Irritability, Pre-menstrual irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Chest distension, Chest pain, Stabbing fixed pain, Dark face, Purple lips, Purple nails...
Qing Hao Bie Jia Tang
Addresses these irritability patterns:
Main Actions
- Nourishes the Yin
- Clears Heat
Addresses These Irritability Pattern Variations
Empty-Heat caused by Yin Deficiency
How it manifests:
Irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Nighttime fever, Emaciation, Chronic pyelonephritis, Pulmonary tuberculosis, Renal tuberculosis, Tidal fever...
Qing Jing San
Addresses these irritability patterns:
Main Actions
- Clears Blood-Heat
- Stops bleeding
Addresses These Irritability Pattern Variations
Heat in the Blood
How it manifests:
Irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Feeling of heat, Red skin eruptions, Thirst, Frequent bleeding, Bloody sputum, Hematochezia...
Qing Luo Yin
Addresses these irritability patterns:
Main Actions
- Resolves Summer-Heat
- Clears the Lungs
Addresses These Irritability Pattern Variations
Summer-Heat
How it manifests:
Irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Fever, Aversion to cold, Excessive sweating, Headaches, Feeling of heaviness, Upper abdominal discomfort...
Qing Re Gu Jing Tang
Addresses these irritability patterns:
Main Actions
- Clears Empty Heat
- Tonifies the Kidney Yin
- Stops bleeding
- Supplies Body Fluids
Addresses These Irritability Pattern Variations
Heat in the Blood
How it manifests:
Irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Feeling of heat, Red skin eruptions, Thirst, Frequent bleeding, Bloody sputum, Hematochezia...
Qing Shu Yi Qi Tang
Addresses these irritability patterns:
Main Actions
- Clears summerheat
- Augments the Qi
- Nourishes the Yin
- Generates Body Fluids
Addresses These Irritability Pattern Variations
Summer-Heat
How it manifests:
Irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Fever, Aversion to cold, Excessive sweating, Headaches, Feeling of heaviness, Upper abdominal discomfort...
Qing Wei San
Addresses these irritability patterns:
Main Actions
- Drains Stomach Fire
- Cools the Blood
- Nourishes the Yin
Addresses These Irritability Pattern Variations
Stomach Heat or Fire
How it manifests:
Irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Upper abdominal burning pain, Excessive thirst, Craving for cold beverages, Restlessness, Dry stools, Dry mouth...
Qing Ying Tang
Addresses these irritability patterns:
Main Actions
- Clears the Nutritive level Heat
- Relieves Fire Toxin
- Removes Heat
- Nourishes Yin
Addresses These Irritability Pattern Variations
Heat in the Blood
How it manifests:
Irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Feeling of heat, Red skin eruptions, Thirst, Frequent bleeding, Bloody sputum, Hematochezia...
Shao Fu Zhu Yu Tang
Addresses these irritability patterns:
Main Actions
- Expels Cold and warm the menstruation Blood
- Stops pain
- Invigorates Blood
- Dispels Blood stagnation
Addresses These Irritability Pattern Variations
Qi And Blood Stagnation
How it manifests:
Irritability, Pre-menstrual irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Chest distension, Chest pain, Stabbing fixed pain, Dark face, Purple lips, Purple nails...
Shen Tong Zhu Yu Tang
Addresses these irritability patterns:
Main Actions
- Invigorates Blood
- Unblocks painful obstruction
- Relieves pain
- Invigorate Qi
- Dispels Blood Stagnation
- Unblock Channels
Addresses These Irritability Pattern Variations
Qi And Blood Stagnation
How it manifests:
Irritability, Pre-menstrual irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Chest distension, Chest pain, Stabbing fixed pain, Dark face, Purple lips, Purple nails...
Shi Gao Tang
Addresses these irritability patterns:
Main Actions
- Clears Heat and resolves Toxicity
- Releases the Exterior
Addresses These Irritability Pattern Variations
Wind Cold with Internal Heat
How it manifests:
Irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
High fever, Severe chills, Lack of sweating, Headaches, Feeling of heaviness, General sensation of tightness...
Shi Hui San
Addresses these irritability patterns:
Main Actions
- Cools the Blood and
- Stops bleeding
- Clears Heat and drains Fire
Addresses These Irritability Pattern Variations
Heat in the Blood
How it manifests:
Irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Feeling of heat, Red skin eruptions, Thirst, Frequent bleeding, Bloody sputum, Hematochezia...
Shi Xiao San
Addresses these irritability patterns:
Main Actions
- Invigorates Blood
- Dispels Blood Stagnation
- Eases pain
Addresses These Irritability Pattern Variations
Qi And Blood Stagnation
How it manifests:
Irritability, Pre-menstrual irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Chest distension, Chest pain, Stabbing fixed pain, Dark face, Purple lips, Purple nails...
Si Ni San
Addresses these irritability patterns:
Main Actions
- Regulates Liver and Spleen
- Eliminates Internal Heat
Addresses These Irritability Pattern Variations
Rebellious Liver Qi
How it manifests:
Irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Hypochondriac distention, Upper abdominal distension, Hiccups, Sighing, Nausea or vomiting, Belching...
Tao He Cheng Qi Tang
Addresses these irritability patterns:
Main Actions
- Dispels Heat and
- Eliminates Blood Stagnation
Addresses These Irritability Pattern Variations
Heat and Blood Stagnation in the Lower Burner
How it manifests:
Irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Lower abdominal pain, Nighttime fever, Incoherent or confused speech, Restlessness, Thirst, Amenorrhea...
Tao Hong Si Wu Tang
Addresses these irritability patterns:
Main Actions
- Tonifies Blood and regulates the Liver
- Moves Qi and Blood in the lower abdomen
- Stops pain
Addresses These Irritability Pattern Variations
Qi And Blood Stagnation
How it manifests:
Irritability, Pre-menstrual irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Chest distension, Chest pain, Stabbing fixed pain, Dark face, Purple lips, Purple nails...
Tian Wang Bu Xin Dan
Addresses these irritability patterns:
Main Actions
- Enriches the Yin
- Nourishes the Blood
- Clears Heat
- Calms the Mind
Addresses These Irritability Pattern Variations
Yin and Blood Deficiency
How it manifests:
Irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Heart palpitations with anxiety, Generalized fatigue, Restless sleeplessness, Poor concentration, Nocturnal emission, Poor memory...
Tong Xie Yao Fang
Addresses these irritability patterns:
Main Actions
- Tonifies the Spleen
- Softens the Liver
- Expels Dampness
- Stops diarrhea
Addresses These Irritability Pattern Variations
Rebellious Liver Qi invading the Spleen
How it manifests:
Irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Abdominal distention, Abdominal pain, Alternating diarrhea and constipation, Dry stools, Excessive gas and flatulence, Generalized fatigue
Wei Jing Tang
Addresses these irritability patterns:
Main Actions
- Clears heat from the Lungs
- Transforms Phlegm
- Drives out Blood-Stagnation
- Discharges pus
Addresses These Irritability Pattern Variations
Qi And Blood Stagnation
How it manifests:
Irritability, Pre-menstrual irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Chest distension, Chest pain, Stabbing fixed pain, Dark face, Purple lips, Purple nails...
Wen Dan Tang
Addresses these irritability patterns:
Main Actions
- Clears Phlegm
- Clears Gallbladder
- Regulates Qi
- Harmonizes the Stomach
Addresses These Irritability Pattern Variations
Phlegm
How it manifests:
Irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Stifling sensation in the chest, Head fog, Dizziness
Wu Shi Lian Mei Tang
Addresses these irritability patterns:
Main Actions
- Drains Heat
- Preserves Body Fluids
- Transforms Yin
Addresses These Irritability Pattern Variations
Summer-Heat entering the Lesser Yin and Terminal Yin warps
How it manifests:
Irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Wasting, Thirst, Cardiac burning sensation, Restlessness, Paralysis, Loss of consciousness...
Xia Ru Yong Quan San
Addresses these irritability patterns:
Main Actions
- Nourishes Blood
- Increases breast milk supply
Addresses These Irritability Pattern Variations
Liver Qi Stagnation
How it manifests:
Irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Hypochondriac distention, Chest distension, Upper abdominal distension, Abdominal distention, Sighing, Melancholia...
Xiao Cheng Qi Tang
Addresses these irritability patterns:
Main Actions
- Moderately purges Heat accumulation
- Circulates Qi in the Middle
Addresses These Irritability Pattern Variations
Bright Yang Fire in Stomach and Intestines
How it manifests:
Irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Afternoon fever, Excessive sweating, Sweating on limbs, Abdominal fullness, Abdominal pain, Constipation...
Xiao Qing Long Tang
Addresses these irritability patterns:
Main Actions
- Releases the Exterior
- Transforms Phlegm-Fluids
- Warms the Lungs
- Directs Rebellious Qi downward
Addresses These Irritability Pattern Variations
Phlegm-Fluids in the limbs
How it manifests:
Irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Feeling of heaviness, Muscle pain, Lack of sweating, Absence of thirst, Profuse white sputum, Swollen limbs...
Xie Huang San
Addresses these irritability patterns:
Main Actions
- Clears Stagnant Fire from the Spleen and Stomach
Addresses These Irritability Pattern Variations
Stomach Heat or Fire
How it manifests:
Irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Upper abdominal burning pain, Excessive thirst, Craving for cold beverages, Restlessness, Dry stools, Dry mouth...
Xie Qing Wan
Addresses these irritability patterns:
Main Actions
- Clears the Liver and drains Fire
Addresses These Irritability Pattern Variations
Liver Fire Blazing
How it manifests:
Irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Anger, Tinnitus, Deafness, Temporal headache, Dizziness, Flushed face...
Xuan Fu Dai Zhe Tang
Addresses these irritability patterns:
Main Actions
- Regulates the downward flow of Stomach Qi
- Expectorant, treats hiccups
Addresses These Irritability Pattern Variations
Rebellious Liver Qi invading the Stomach
How it manifests:
Irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Upper abdominal pain, Upper abdominal distension, Hypochondriac pain, Hypochondriac distention, Upper abdominal oppression, Acid reflux...
Xuan Yu Tong Jing Tang
Addresses these irritability patterns:
Main Actions
- Pacifies the Liver
- Removes Stagnation
- Drains Fire
- Unblocks the Meridians
Addresses These Irritability Pattern Variations
Stagnant Liver Qi turning into Fire
How it manifests:
Irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Hypochondriac distention, Upper abdominal distension, Stifling sensation in the chest, Melancholia, Depression, Mood swings...
Xue Fu Zhu Yu Tang
Addresses these irritability patterns:
Main Actions
- Invigorates the Blood
- Dispels blood Stagnation
- Spreads the Liver Qi
- Unblocks the channels
Addresses These Irritability Pattern Variations
Qi And Blood Stagnation
How it manifests:
Irritability, Pre-menstrual irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Chest distension, Chest pain, Stabbing fixed pain, Dark face, Purple lips, Purple nails...
Yi Guan Jian
Addresses these irritability patterns:
Main Actions
- Enriches the Yin
- Spreads the Liver Qi
Addresses These Irritability Pattern Variations
Liver Qi Stagnation
How it manifests:
Irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Hypochondriac distention, Chest distension, Upper abdominal distension, Abdominal distention, Sighing, Melancholia...
Yin Chen Hao Tang
Addresses these irritability patterns:
Main Actions
- Clears heat
- Resolves dampness
- Reduces jaundice
Addresses These Irritability Pattern Variations
Damp-Heat in the Gallbladder
How it manifests:
Irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Hypochondriac pain, Hypochondriac distention, Nausea or vomiting, Fat malabsorption, Dull yellow complexion, Scanty and dark urine...
Yu Nu Jian
Addresses these irritability patterns:
Main Actions
- Clears stomach Heat
- Nourishes Kidney Yin
Addresses These Irritability Pattern Variations
Stomach Fire or Stomach Heat
How it manifests:
Irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Toothache, Headaches, Loose teeth, Bleeding gums, Thirst, Stomatitis...
Zeng Ye Cheng Qi Tang
Addresses these irritability patterns:
Main Actions
- Generates Body Fluids
- Nourishes the Yin
- Unblocks the bowels
- Drains Heat
Addresses These Irritability Pattern Variations
Yin Deficiency
How it manifests:
Irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Heat sensation in palms, Emaciation, Sore throat at night, Thirst, Anxiety, Jumpy...
Zhen Gan Xi Feng Tang
Addresses these irritability patterns:
Main Actions
- Pacifies the Liver
- Extinguishes Wind
- Nourishes the Yin
- Anchors the Yang
Addresses These Irritability Pattern Variations
Interior Wind
How it manifests:
Irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Convulsions, Hand tremor, Dizziness, Paralysis, Coma, Tic disorder...
Zhen Xin An Shen Tang
Addresses these irritability patterns:
Main Actions
- Anchors the Heart and calms the Mind
Addresses These Irritability Pattern Variations
Liver Yang Rising
How it manifests:
Irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Headaches, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Deafness, Blurry vision, Dry mouth...
Zi Xue Dan
Addresses these irritability patterns:
Main Actions
- Clears Heat
- Opens the sensory orifices
- Controls spasms and convulsions
- Extinguishes Wind
Addresses These Irritability Pattern Variations
Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Fire
How it manifests:
Irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Tremors, Anger, Tinnitus, Deafness, Temporal headache, Dizziness...
Zuo Gui Wan
Addresses these irritability patterns:
Main Actions
- Nourishes the Yin
- Strengthens the Kidneys
- Fills the Essence
- Augments the marrow
Addresses These Irritability Pattern Variations
Yin Deficiency
How it manifests:
Irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Heat sensation in palms, Emaciation, Sore throat at night, Thirst, Anxiety, Jumpy...
Zuo Gui Yin
Addresses these irritability patterns:
Main Actions
- Nourishes the Yin
- Tonifies the Kidneys
Addresses These Irritability Pattern Variations
Kidney Yin Deficiency
How it manifests:
Irritability
Accompanying symptoms:
Excessive sweating, Back pain, Hearing loss, Dry mouth and throat at night, Lower back pain, Constipation...
Xiao Chai Hu Tang
Traditional formula for irritability
Main Actions
- Treats the Lesser Yang Channels (Gallbladder and Triple Warmer)
- Regulates the Liver and Spleen functions
- Addresses combined Yin-Yang symptoms of External and Internal, Excess and Deficiency, and Hot and Cold
Chai Hu Gui Zhi Tang
Traditional formula for irritability
Main Actions
- Harmonizes the Lessor Yang and Greater Yang Stage
- Releases the Exterior and muscle layer
- Harmonizes the Liver, Spleen and Intestines
- Dispels Water Accumulation