Symptom family: Anger and Hostility

Did you mean? Irritability

Root Causes of Anger in TCM

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

  • By Syndrome
  • By Organ
  • Liver
  • Uterus
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 Anger

Common Symptoms: Thirst Flushed Face Constipation Dark Urine Irritability Eye Hyperemia Dry Stools Dizziness

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Heat in Uterus Blood Anger, Excessive menstruation, Sudden period before schedule, Dark menstrual blood, Sticky menstrual blood, Thirst, Flushed face, Anxiety, Dark urine, Constipation... see more Qing Re Gu Jing Tang | Huai Jiao Wan | Gu Jing Wan
Stagnant Liver Qi turning into Fire Anger, Outbursts of anger, Hypochondriac distention, Upper abdominal distension, Stifling sensation in the chest, Irritability, Melancholia, Depression, Mood swings, Globus sensation, Feeling of heat, Flushed face, Thirst, Pre menstrual tension, Irregular periods, Pre menstrual breast distension, Excessive menstruation... see more Jia Wei Xiao Yao San | Xuan Yu Tong Jing Tang | Dan Zhi Xiao Yao San
Liver Fire Blazing Outbursts of anger, Irritability, 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... see more Long Dan Xie Gan Tang | Dang Gui Long Hui Wan | Xie Qing Wan
Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Fire Outbursts of anger, Tremors, Irritability, 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... see more Ling Jiao Gou Teng Tang | Zi Xue Dan | Feng Yin 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 Anger

Common Symptoms: Dizziness Constipation Tremors Headaches Limb Numbness Irritability Eye Hyperemia Flushed Face

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Interior Wind Anger, Convulsions, Hand tremor, Dizziness, Paralysis, Coma, Tic disorder, Mouth deviation, Eye deviation, Tremors, Headaches, Limb numbness... see more Tian Ma Gou Teng Yin | Ling Jiao Gou Teng Tang | Liu Wei Di Huang Wan | Qi Ju Di Huang Wan | E Jiao Ji Zi Huang Tang | Zhen Gan Xi Feng Tang | Bu Gan Tang | Si Wu Tang
Wind-Phlegm Anger, Dizziness, Stifling sensation in the chest, Aphasia, Coughing and wheezing with copious sputum, Noisy breathing, Limb numbness... see more Ban Xia Bai Zhu Tian Ma Tang
Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Fire Outbursts of anger, Tremors, Irritability, 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... see more Ling Jiao Gou Teng Tang | Zi Xue Dan | Feng Yin Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Qi Stagnation

Qi Stagnation in TCM is like having a traffic jam in your body's energy system. Qi, the vital life force that flows through your body, is supposed to move smoothly to maintain health and balance. But with Qi Stagnation, this flow gets blocked or slowed down, like cars stuck on a highway. This can lead to symptoms like feeling stressed, emotional mood swings, and physical discomfort, often described as a feeling of fullness or tightness, especially in the chest or abdomen. It's as though the body's internal energy circulation is disrupted, causing various issues. TCM sees this as an energy flow problem, different from modern medicine's focus on specific physiological processes.... see more

Qi Stagnation Patterns That Can Lead to Anger

Common Symptoms: Hypochondriac Distention Upper Abdominal Distension Melancholia Depression Mood Swings Irregular Periods Globus Sensation Pre Menstrual Breast Distension

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Liver Qi Stagnation Anger, 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... see more Xiao Yao San | Jia Wei Xiao Yao San | Yue Ju Wan | Chai Hu Shu Gan San | Yi Guan Jian
Stagnant Liver Qi turning into Fire Anger, Outbursts of anger, Hypochondriac distention, Upper abdominal distension, Stifling sensation in the chest, Irritability, Melancholia, Depression, Mood swings, Globus sensation, Feeling of heat, Flushed face, Thirst, Pre menstrual tension, Irregular periods, Pre menstrual breast distension, Excessive menstruation... see more Jia Wei Xiao Yao San | Xuan Yu Tong Jing Tang | Dan Zhi Xiao Yao San
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 Anger

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Wind-Phlegm Anger, Dizziness, Stifling sensation in the chest, Aphasia, Coughing and wheezing with copious sputum, Noisy breathing, Limb numbness... see more Ban Xia Bai Zhu Tian Ma Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Yang Excess

Yang Excess in TCM refers to a state where there is an overabundance of Yang energy, leading to symptoms of heat and hyperactivity in the body. This pattern of disharmony often arises from factors like stress, excessive physical activity, overconsumption of spicy or heating foods, or an internal imbalance that causes Yang to flare up. Symptoms of Yang Excess include a feeling of heat, red face, irritability, restlessness, thirst, constipation, and a rapid, forceful pulse. Treatment in TCM for Yang Excess aims to cool down and subdue the excessive Yang while nurturing Yin energy to restore balance.... see more

Yang Excess Patterns That Can Lead to Anger

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Liver Yang Rising Outbursts of anger, Headaches, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Deafness, Blurry vision, Dry mouth, Dry throat, Insomnia, Irritability, Exhaustion, Anger, Stiff neck, Shoulder stiffness, Stiff upper back... see more Tian Ma Gou Teng Yin | Ling Jiao Gou Teng Tang | Liu Wei Di Huang Wan | Qi Ju Di Huang Wan | Da Chai Hu Tang | Zhen Zhu Mu Wan | Zhen Xin An Shen Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Liver

In TCM the Liver is viewed as the organ responsible for the smooth flow of Qi, Blood, and emotions throughout the body. It plays a key role in regulating mood, storing blood, supporting digestion, and ensuring the health of tendons and eyes. When the Liver malfunctions or is imbalanced in TCM, it can lead to a range of issues such as irritability, mood swings, menstrual irregularities, eye problems, and muscular stiffness or pain. A malfunctioning Liver in TCM reflects not only physical disturbances but also emotional and mental disharmony, emphasizing the holistic approach of TCM in addressing health and wellness.... see more

Liver Patterns That Can Lead to Anger

Common Symptoms: Irritability Constipation Dry Stools Dizziness Headaches Flushed Face Thirst Eye Hyperemia

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Liver Qi Stagnation Anger, 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... see more Xiao Yao San | Jia Wei Xiao Yao San | Yue Ju Wan | Chai Hu Shu Gan San | Yi Guan Jian
Stagnant Liver Qi turning into Fire Anger, Outbursts of anger, Hypochondriac distention, Upper abdominal distension, Stifling sensation in the chest, Irritability, Melancholia, Depression, Mood swings, Globus sensation, Feeling of heat, Flushed face, Thirst, Pre menstrual tension, Irregular periods, Pre menstrual breast distension, Excessive menstruation... see more Jia Wei Xiao Yao San | Xuan Yu Tong Jing Tang | Dan Zhi Xiao Yao San
Liver Fire Blazing Outbursts of anger, Irritability, 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... see more Long Dan Xie Gan Tang | Dang Gui Long Hui Wan | Xie Qing Wan
Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Fire Outbursts of anger, Tremors, Irritability, 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... see more Ling Jiao Gou Teng Tang | Zi Xue Dan | Feng Yin Tang
Liver Yang Rising Outbursts of anger, Headaches, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Deafness, Blurry vision, Dry mouth, Dry throat, Insomnia, Irritability, Exhaustion, Anger, Stiff neck, Shoulder stiffness, Stiff upper back... see more Tian Ma Gou Teng Yin | Ling Jiao Gou Teng Tang | Liu Wei Di Huang Wan | Qi Ju Di Huang Wan | Da Chai Hu Tang | Zhen Zhu Mu Wan | Zhen Xin An Shen Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Uterus

In TCM the Uterus (or "Bao Gong") is not just a reproductive organ but a vital system closely linked to Kidney energy, responsible for menstrual health, fertility, and pregnancy. It's also connected to the Heart and Liver, reflecting the importance of emotional and blood health in reproductive wellness. In TCM, the Uterus is seen as a reservoir of Blood and Qi, crucial for reproductive health and general vitality. When the Uterus malfunctions or is imbalanced, it can lead to menstrual irregularities, infertility, miscarriages, or menopausal symptoms. Additionally, there might be symptoms like lower abdominal pain or emotional disturbances such as mood swings, often linked to Liver Qi stagnation. These manifestations highlight the TCM perspective that the health of the Uterus is intertwined with the overall balance of energy and blood in the body, as well as emotional well-being.... see more

Uterus Patterns That Can Lead to Anger

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Heat in Uterus Blood Anger, Excessive menstruation, Sudden period before schedule, Dark menstrual blood, Sticky menstrual blood, Thirst, Flushed face, Anxiety, Dark urine, Constipation... see more Qing Re Gu Jing Tang | Huai Jiao Wan | Gu Jing Wan

TCM Herbal Formulas for Anger

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

  • By Cause
  • By Formula Type
  • Formulas that pacify and extinguish internal wind
  • Formulas that nourish yin and tonify
  • Formulas that clear heat from the organs
  • Formulas that harmonize liver-Spleen
  • Formulas that tonify blood
  • Formulas that promote qi movement
  • Formulas that clear heat from deficiency
  • Formulas that stop bleeding
  • Formulas that secure irregular uterine bleeding and stop vaginal discharge
  • Formulas that invigorate blood and dispel blood stagnation
  • Formulas that clear liver-Heat
  • Formulas that transform phlegm and extinguish wind
  • Formulas that clear heat and open sensory orifices
  • Formulas that dredge and disperse external wind
  • Formulas that release the exterior and purge the interior
  • Formulas that sedate and calm the mind
  • Formulas that nourish the heart and calm the mind

All Formulas Recommended for Anger Caused by Heat

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Ling Jiao Gou Teng Tang Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Fire
Jia Wei Xiao Yao San Stagnant Liver Qi turning into Fire
Qing Re Gu Jing Tang Heat in Uterus Blood
Huai Jiao Wan Heat in Uterus Blood
Gu Jing Wan Heat in Uterus Blood
Xuan Yu Tong Jing Tang Stagnant Liver Qi turning into Fire
Dan Zhi Xiao Yao San Stagnant Liver Qi turning into Fire
Long Dan Xie Gan Tang Liver Fire Blazing
Dang Gui Long Hui Wan Liver Fire Blazing
Xie Qing Wan Liver Fire Blazing
Zi Xue Dan Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Fire
Feng Yin Tang Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Fire

All Formulas Recommended for Anger Caused by Wind

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Ling Jiao Gou Teng Tang Interior Wind, Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Fire
Tian Ma Gou Teng Yin Interior Wind
Liu Wei Di Huang Wan Interior Wind
Qi Ju Di Huang Wan Interior Wind
E Jiao Ji Zi Huang Tang Interior Wind
Zhen Gan Xi Feng Tang Interior Wind
Bu Gan Tang Interior Wind
Si Wu Tang Interior Wind
Ban Xia Bai Zhu Tian Ma Tang Wind-Phlegm
Zi Xue Dan Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Fire
Feng Yin Tang Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Fire

All Formulas Recommended for Anger Caused by Qi Stagnation

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Jia Wei Xiao Yao San Liver Qi Stagnation, Stagnant Liver Qi turning into Fire
Xiao Yao San Liver Qi Stagnation
Yue Ju Wan Liver Qi Stagnation
Chai Hu Shu Gan San Liver Qi Stagnation
Yi Guan Jian Liver Qi Stagnation
Xuan Yu Tong Jing Tang Stagnant Liver Qi turning into Fire
Dan Zhi Xiao Yao San Stagnant Liver Qi turning into Fire

All Formulas Recommended for Anger Caused by Yang Excess

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Ling Jiao Gou Teng Tang Liver Yang Rising
Tian Ma Gou Teng Yin Liver Yang Rising
Liu Wei Di Huang Wan Liver Yang Rising
Qi Ju Di Huang Wan Liver Yang Rising
Da Chai Hu Tang Liver Yang Rising
Zhen Zhu Mu Wan Liver Yang Rising
Zhen Xin An Shen Tang Liver Yang Rising

All "formulas that pacify and extinguish internal wind" recommended for anger

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Ling Jiao Gou Teng Tang Interior Wind, Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Fire, Liver Yang Rising... see more
Tian Ma Gou Teng Yin Interior Wind, Liver Yang Rising
E Jiao Ji Zi Huang Tang Interior Wind
Zhen Gan Xi Feng Tang Interior Wind

All "formulas that nourish yin and tonify" recommended for anger

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Liu Wei Di Huang Wan Interior Wind, Liver Yang Rising
Qi Ju Di Huang Wan Interior Wind, Liver Yang Rising
Yi Guan Jian Liver Qi Stagnation

All "formulas that harmonize liver-Spleen" recommended for anger

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Jia Wei Xiao Yao San Liver Qi Stagnation, Stagnant Liver Qi turning into Fire
Xiao Yao San Liver Qi Stagnation

All "formulas that clear heat from the organs" recommended for anger

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Long Dan Xie Gan Tang Liver Fire Blazing
Dang Gui Long Hui Wan Liver Fire Blazing
Xie Qing Wan Liver Fire Blazing

All "formulas that tonify blood" recommended for anger

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Bu Gan Tang Interior Wind
Si Wu Tang Interior Wind

All "formulas that promote qi movement" recommended for anger

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Yue Ju Wan Liver Qi Stagnation
Chai Hu Shu Gan San Liver Qi Stagnation

Acupoints for Anger

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

  • By Meridian
  • Liver Channel
  • Kidney Channel
  • Directing Vessel
  • Heart Channel
  • Lung Channel
Xingjian LIV-2

Xingjian LIV-2

Between the first and second toe, on the dorsum of the foot, 0.5 cun proximal to the interdigital fold.

Taichong LIV-3

Taichong LIV-3

On the dorsum of the foot, between the 1st and 2nd metatarsal bones, in the depression proximal to the metatarsophalangeal joints and the proximal angle between the two bones.

Dazhong KID-4

Dazhong KID-4

Posterior and inferior to the medial malleolus, in the depression medial to the Achilles tendon, superior to its insertion at the calcaneus.

Juque REN-14

Juque REN-14

On the midline of the abdomen, 6 cun above the umbilicus and 2 cun below the sternocostal angle.

Tongli HE-5

Tongli HE-5

On the radial side of the tendon of flexor carpi ulnaris muscle, 1 cun above the transverse crease of the wrist when the palm faces upward.

Yuji LU-10

Yuji LU-10

On the radial aspect of the midpoint of the first metacarpal bone, on the junction of the red and white skin (the junction of the dorsum and palm of the hand).