Symptom family: Cognitive Impairment

Root Causes of Delirium in TCM

Explore below more details about what might cause Delirium according to TCM.

  • By Syndrome
  • By Organ
  • Stomach
  • Small Intestine
  • Pericardium
Detailed description of the cause

Heat

In TCM "Heat" signifies an excess of Yang energy, leading to an imbalance where heat predominates over the body's cool Yin aspects. This condition is metaphorically akin to an internal over-heating. Symptoms indicative of Heat can include feelings of warmth, fever, sweating, irritability, red face, thirst with a preference for cold drinks, and a rapid pulse. The tongue may appear red with a yellow coating. Unlike the common interpretation of heat in terms of temperature, in TCM, it represents a state of hyperactivity or inflammation in the body.... see more

Heat Patterns That Can Lead to Delirium

Common Symptoms: Irritability Thirst Flushed Face Feeling Hot Insomnia Incoherent Or Confused Speech Perspiration Abdominal Pain

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Bright Yang Fire in Stomach and Intestines Delirium, Afternoon fever, Perspiration, Sweating on limbs, Abdominal fullness, Abdominal pain, Constipation, Dry stools, Thirst, Dark urine, Anal burning, Irritability... see more Tiao Wei Cheng Qi Tang | Xiao Cheng Qi Tang
Bright Yang Stomach Heat Delirium, High fever, Perspiration, Excessive thirst, Flushed face, Feeling hot, Irritability... see more Bai Hu Tang
Heat in Nutritive Qi level Delirium, Nighttime fever, Dry mouth without desire to drink, Restlessness, Insomnia, Incoherent or confused speech, Aphasia, Macules... see more Qing Ying Tang | Bai He Di Huang Tang
Heat in Pericardium Delirium, Nighttime fever, Confusion, Incoherent or confused speech, Cold extremities Qing Ying Tang | Zhi Bao Dan
Heat in the Blood Delirium, Feeling hot, Red skin eruptions, Thirst, Frequent bleeding, Bloody sputum, Hematochezia, Hematuria, Vomiting blood, Hemoptysis, Nosebleeds, Excessive menstruation... see more Qing Ying Tang | Bai He Di Huang Tang | Xi Jiao Di Huang Tang | Gu Jing Wan | Shi Hui San | Hua Ban Tang | Qing Re Gu Jing Tang
Wind Cold with Internal Heat Delirium, Strong fever, Severe chills, Lack of sweating, Headaches, Feeling of heaviness, General sensation of tightness, Flushed face, Eye hyperemia, Dry nose, Thirst, Irritability, Insomnia, Hemoptysis, Mottled skin... see more Shi Gao Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Cold

In TCM "Cold" as a pattern of disharmony refers to a specific type of imbalance within the body's systems, often linked to a deficiency or weakness. It's not about feeling physically cold or having a common cold, but rather a metaphorical description of certain symptoms and underlying conditions. When a TCM practitioner says someone suffers from "Cold," it usually implies that the body's Yang energy, which is warm and active, is insufficient or overpowered by Yin energy, which is cool and passive. Symptoms of Cold in TCM can include a general feeling of coldness, cold limbs, pale complexion, low energy, slow metabolism, and a preference for warmth. ... see more

Cold Patterns That Can Lead to Delirium

Common Symptoms: Irritability Perspiration Thirst Flushed Face Afternoon Fever Sweating On Limbs Abdominal Fullness Abdominal Pain

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Bright Yang Fire in Stomach and Intestines Delirium, Afternoon fever, Perspiration, Sweating on limbs, Abdominal fullness, Abdominal pain, Constipation, Dry stools, Thirst, Dark urine, Anal burning, Irritability... see more Tiao Wei Cheng Qi Tang | Xiao Cheng Qi Tang
Bright Yang Stomach Heat Delirium, High fever, Perspiration, Excessive thirst, Flushed face, Feeling hot, Irritability... see more Bai Hu Tang
Wind Cold with Internal Heat Delirium, Strong fever, Severe chills, Lack of sweating, Headaches, Feeling of heaviness, General sensation of tightness, Flushed face, Eye hyperemia, Dry nose, Thirst, Irritability, Insomnia, Hemoptysis, Mottled skin... see more Shi Gao Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Wind

In TCM "Wind" is a concept that represents a pattern of disharmony, often characterized by its sudden and unpredictable nature, much like a gusty wind changing direction without warning. This pattern is associated with symptoms that come and go quickly or move around the body, such as itching, tremors, or even certain types of pain. Wind is considered to be a primary cause of illnesses that have these rapidly changing characteristics. In TCM, external Wind often refers to illnesses that start suddenly, like the common cold, believed to be caused by external pathogenic factors like climatic changes. On the other hand, internal Wind can be linked to internal imbalances and can manifest in conditions like dizziness or spasms. ... see more

Wind Patterns That Can Lead to Delirium

Common Symptoms: Irritability Perspiration Thirst Flushed Face Afternoon Fever Sweating On Limbs Abdominal Fullness Abdominal Pain

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Bright Yang Fire in Stomach and Intestines Delirium, Afternoon fever, Perspiration, Sweating on limbs, Abdominal fullness, Abdominal pain, Constipation, Dry stools, Thirst, Dark urine, Anal burning, Irritability... see more Tiao Wei Cheng Qi Tang | Xiao Cheng Qi Tang
Bright Yang Stomach Heat Delirium, High fever, Perspiration, Excessive thirst, Flushed face, Feeling hot, Irritability... see more Bai Hu Tang
Wind Cold with Internal Heat Delirium, Strong fever, Severe chills, Lack of sweating, Headaches, Feeling of heaviness, General sensation of tightness, Flushed face, Eye hyperemia, Dry nose, Thirst, Irritability, Insomnia, Hemoptysis, Mottled skin... see more Shi Gao Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Phlegm

In TCM "Phlegm" as a pattern of disharmony is a complex concept that extends beyond the physical manifestation of mucus. It represents a pathological factor that can disrupt the flow of Qi (vital energy) and blood, leading to various health issues. Phlegm in TCM is seen as a sticky, turbid substance arising from the body's inability to metabolize fluids properly, often due to a dysfunction of the spleen. It's not only associated with respiratory problems like cough and congestion but also with systemic issues. Symptoms can include a feeling of heaviness, mental cloudiness, dizziness, and in some cases, the formation of lumps or masses. Phlegm can even be "invisible," contributing to emotional disturbances like depression or stress. ... see more

Phlegm Patterns That Can Lead to Delirium

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Phlegm Delirium, Feeling of oppression of the chest, Head fog, Dizziness Er Chen Tang | Liu Jun Zi Tang | Ban Xia Bai Zhu Tian Ma Tang | Wen Dan Tang | Hao Qin Qing Dan Tang | Xing Su San
Detailed description of the cause

Stomach

In TCM the Stomach is regarded as the "sea of nourishment," pivotal for digesting food and transforming it into Qi and blood. It works closely with the Spleen to distribute these essential nutrients throughout the body. When the Stomach is out of balance or malfunctions in TCM, it often leads to digestive problems such as bloating, nausea, vomiting, poor appetite, or a feeling of fullness. There may also be issues like acid reflux or a sour taste in the mouth. Emotionally, an imbalanced Stomach can contribute to excessive worry and overthinking, reflecting the TCM belief that physical and emotional well-being are deeply interconnected.... see more

Stomach Patterns That Can Lead to Delirium

Common Symptoms: Perspiration Irritability Afternoon Fever Sweating On Limbs Abdominal Fullness Abdominal Pain Constipation Dry Stools

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Bright Yang Fire in Stomach and Intestines Delirium, Afternoon fever, Perspiration, Sweating on limbs, Abdominal fullness, Abdominal pain, Constipation, Dry stools, Thirst, Dark urine, Anal burning, Irritability... see more Tiao Wei Cheng Qi Tang | Xiao Cheng Qi Tang
Bright Yang Stomach Heat Delirium, High fever, Perspiration, Excessive thirst, Flushed face, Feeling hot, Irritability... see more Bai Hu Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Small Intestine

In TCM the Small Intestine plays a critical role in receiving partially digested food from the Stomach and further separating the clear from the turbid, essentially distinguishing nutrients from waste. This process is vital for proper absorption and assimilation of food. The Small Intestine is also associated with clarity of judgment and decision-making. When it malfunctions or is imbalanced in TCM, it can lead to digestive issues such as abdominal pain, bloating, poor appetite, or irregular bowel movements. Additionally, a malfunctioning Small Intestine may manifest as mental confusion or difficulty in making decisions, reflecting its role in discernment and clarity in both physical and mental realms. ... see more

Small Intestine Patterns That Can Lead to Delirium

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Bright Yang Fire in Stomach and Intestines Delirium, Afternoon fever, Perspiration, Sweating on limbs, Abdominal fullness, Abdominal pain, Constipation, Dry stools, Thirst, Dark urine, Anal burning, Irritability... see more Tiao Wei Cheng Qi Tang | Xiao Cheng Qi Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Pericardium

In TCM the Pericardium is more than a physical membrane protecting the heart; it's considered an organ system that acts as the "Heart's protector." It plays a crucial role in safeguarding the heart from external pathogenic factors and emotional disturbances. The Pericardium is also involved in regulating blood circulation and influencing emotional well-being, especially in terms of relationships and intimacy. When the Pericardium malfunctions or is imbalanced in TCM, it can lead to symptoms that mirror heart issues, such as chest pain or palpitations, but often with an emotional component like difficulty in forming emotional connections or excessive vulnerability to external stressors. Additionally, a disturbed Pericardium can result in sleep disturbances, anxiety, and in severe cases, mental confusion, reflecting its integral role in both physical heart protection and emotional balance.... see more

Pericardium Patterns That Can Lead to Delirium

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Heat in Pericardium Delirium, Nighttime fever, Confusion, Incoherent or confused speech, Cold extremities Qing Ying Tang | Zhi Bao Dan

TCM Herbal Formulas for Delirium

Explore below some TCM herbal formulas used to address delirium, organized by cause and by formula type.

  • By Cause
  • By Formula Type
  • Formulas that purge heat accumulation
  • Formulas that clear nutritive-level heat
  • Formulas that clear heat from deficiency
  • Formulas that dry dampness and transform phlegm
  • Formulas that clear qi-level heat
  • Formulas that clear heat and open sensory orifices
  • Formulas that secure irregular uterine bleeding and stop vaginal discharge
  • Formulas that stop bleeding
  • Formulas that clear heat from qi and blood
  • Formulas that tonify qi
  • Formulas that transform phlegm and extinguish wind
  • Formulas that harmonize lesser yang-warp disorders
  • Formulas that disperse dryness and moisten
  • Formulas that release the exterior and clear the interior

All Formulas Recommended for Delirium Caused by Heat

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Qing Ying Tang Heat in Nutritive Qi level, Heat in Pericardium, Heat in the Blood
Bai He Di Huang Tang Heat in Nutritive Qi level, Heat in the Blood
Tiao Wei Cheng Qi Tang Bright Yang Fire in Stomach and Intestines
Xiao Cheng Qi Tang Bright Yang Fire in Stomach and Intestines
Bai Hu Tang Bright Yang Stomach Heat
Zhi Bao Dan Heat in Pericardium
Xi Jiao Di Huang Tang Heat in the Blood
Gu Jing Wan Heat in the Blood
Shi Hui San Heat in the Blood
Hua Ban Tang Heat in the Blood
Qing Re Gu Jing Tang Heat in the Blood
Shi Gao Tang Wind Cold with Internal Heat

All Formulas Recommended for Delirium Caused by Cold

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Tiao Wei Cheng Qi Tang Bright Yang Fire in Stomach and Intestines
Xiao Cheng Qi Tang Bright Yang Fire in Stomach and Intestines
Bai Hu Tang Bright Yang Stomach Heat
Shi Gao Tang Wind Cold with Internal Heat

All Formulas Recommended for Delirium Caused by Wind

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Tiao Wei Cheng Qi Tang Bright Yang Fire in Stomach and Intestines
Xiao Cheng Qi Tang Bright Yang Fire in Stomach and Intestines
Bai Hu Tang Bright Yang Stomach Heat
Shi Gao Tang Wind Cold with Internal Heat

All Formulas Recommended for Delirium Caused by Phlegm

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Er Chen Tang Phlegm
Liu Jun Zi Tang Phlegm
Ban Xia Bai Zhu Tian Ma Tang Phlegm
Wen Dan Tang Phlegm
Hao Qin Qing Dan Tang Phlegm
Xing Su San Phlegm

All "formulas that clear nutritive-level heat" recommended for delirium

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Qing Ying Tang Heat in Nutritive Qi level, Heat in Pericardium, Heat in the Blood
Xi Jiao Di Huang Tang Heat in the Blood

All "formulas that clear heat from deficiency" recommended for delirium

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Bai He Di Huang Tang Heat in Nutritive Qi level, Heat in the Blood
Qing Re Gu Jing Tang Heat in the Blood

All "formulas that purge heat accumulation" recommended for delirium

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Tiao Wei Cheng Qi Tang Bright Yang Fire in Stomach and Intestines
Xiao Cheng Qi Tang Bright Yang Fire in Stomach and Intestines

All "formulas that dry dampness and transform phlegm" recommended for delirium

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Er Chen Tang Phlegm
Wen Dan Tang Phlegm

Acupoints for Delirium

Explore below some acupoints used to address delirium, organized by meridian.

  • By Meridian
  • Pericardium Channel
  • Bladder Channel
Quze P-3

Quze P-3

On the transverse cubital crease, at the ulnar side of the tendon of biceps brachii muscle.

Jianshi P-5

Jianshi P-5

3 cun above the transverse crease of the wrist, between the tendons of palmaris longus and flexor carpi radialis muscle.

Laogong P-8

Laogong P-8

In the center of the palm, between the 2nd and the 3rd metacarpal bones, proximal to the metacarpophalangeal joint.

Weizhong BL-40

Weizhong BL-40

At the midpoint of the popliteal crease, between the tendons of biceps femoris and semitendinosus muscle.