Lack Of Sweatingaccording to TCM

Symptom family: Sweating Disorders

What is Lack of Sweating?

Lack of sweating, also known as anhidrosis or hypohidrosis, refers to the body's inability to produce sweat. This condition can affect either a small area or the entire body and may result from a variety of underlying health issues. While sweating is a natural mechanism to regulate body temperature and expel toxins, its absence can lead to overheating and other complications. Lack of sweating can be a symptom of neurological disorders, skin conditions, or other systemic illnesses, necessitating medical attention to determine its cause.

How Does TCM View Lack of Sweating?

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), lack of sweating is considered a sign of imbalance within the body's systems. Unlike Western medicine, which often focuses on symptomatic treatment, TCM seeks to identify and address the root cause of the condition. Various patterns of disharmony, such as Cold, Wind, Phlegm, Heat, and Dampness, can lead to an inability to sweat. Identifying the correct pattern is crucial for effective treatment, as each pattern requires a tailored approach involving herbal formulas, acupuncture, and lifestyle adjustments.

Root Causes of Lack Of Sweating in TCM

One common cause of lack of sweating in TCM is Cold invasion, particularly the Greater Yang Attack of Cold according to the 6 Stage Theory of Zhang Zhong Jin. This pattern is characterized by symptoms such as occipital headache, aversion to cold, low-grade fever, stiff neck, and nasal discharge. When Cold invades the body, it constricts the pores and prevents the natural release of sweat.

Another related pattern is Wind-Cold invading the Lungs, which includes symptoms like fever, itchy throat, shortness of breath, and congested nose. The combination of Wind and Cold obstructs the body's ability to sweat properly.

Another potential cause is Phlegm accumulation, specifically Phlegm-Fluids in the limbs. This pattern presents with symptoms such as a feeling of heaviness, muscle pain, absence of thirst, profuse white sputum, and swollen limbs. The accumulation of Phlegm and fluids obstructs the channels and prevents sweating. Similarly, Phlegm-Fluids above the diaphragm can lead to symptoms like coughing, asthma, edema, and a stifling sensation in the chest. This pattern also disrupts the body's sweating mechanism by blocking the normal flow of Qi and fluids.

Explore below more details about what might cause Lack of sweating according to TCM.

  • By Syndrome
  • By Organ
  • Cold
  • Wind
  • Phlegm
  • Heat
  • Dampness
  • Yin Deficiency
  • Yang Excess
  • Yang Deficiency
  • Dryness
  • Summer Heat
  • Lung
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 Lack Of Sweating

Common Symptoms: Headaches Aversion To Cold Fever Body Pain Chills Sneezing Nasal Discharge Occipital Headache

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Greater Yang Attack of Cold Absence of sweating, Occipital headache, Aversion to cold, Low grade fever, Lack of sweating, Stiff neck, Sneezing, Nasal discharge, Shortness of breath... see more Ma Huang Tang
Wind-Cold invading the Lungs Lack of sweating, Aversion to cold, Fever, Itchy throat, Shortness of breath, Congested nose, Nasal discharge, Sneezing, Headaches, Body pain, White and watery sputum, Coughing and wheezing with copious sputum... see more Ma Huang Tang | Ge Gen Tang | Xin Yi San | Zhi Sou San
Dry-Cold No sweat, Fever, Headaches, Aversion to cold, Skin dryness, Lack of sweating, Dry mouth, Dry throat, Coughing, Scanty sputum... see more Xing Su San
Exterior-Cold No sweat, Aversion to cold, Fever, Body pain, Stiff neck, Lack of sweating, Absence of thirst, Feeling of heat, Chills... see more Ma Huang Tang | Gui Zhi Tang
Wind-Cold No sweat, Aversion to cold, Fever, Sneezing, Coughing, Nasal discharge, Occipital headache, Occipital stiffness, Congested nose, White and watery sputum... see more Ma Huang Tang | Jing Fang Bai Du San | Cong Chi Tang | Huo Ren Cong Shi Tang | Jiu Wei Qiang Huo Tang | Jia Wei Xiang Su San | Shi Shen Tang | Jin Fei Cao San | Wu Ji San
Early Stage Summerheat with Exterior Wind-Cold No sweating, Fever, Chills, Lack of sweating, Headaches, Thirst, Flushed face, Stifling sensation in the chest, Feeling of heaviness, Body pain, Dark urine, Urinary dysfunction... see more Xin Jia Xiang Ru Yin
Exterior Cold with Interior Dampness in Summer No sweating, Chills with warm skin, Lack of sweating, Heavy sensation in the head, Headaches, Abdominal pain, Vomit, Diarrhea, Tight feeling in chest and stomach, Fatigued extremities, Nausea... see more Xiang Ru San
Wind Cold with Internal Heat No sweating, High fever, Severe chills, Lack of sweating, Headaches, Feeling of heaviness, General sensation of tightness, Flushed face, Eye hyperemia, Dry nose, Thirst, Irritability, Insomnia, Cough of blood, Mottled skin... see more Shi Gao Tang
Wind-Cold invading with Yang Deficiency No sweating, Low grade fever, Severe chills, Exhaustion, Hypersomnia, Cold extremities, Lumbar pain, Lower back pain, Lower back coldness, General cold feeling, Lack of sweating, Headaches, Weak voice... see more Ma Huang Xi Xin Fu Zi Tang | Zai Zao San
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 Lack Of Sweating

Common Symptoms: Headaches Fever Body Pain Chills Aversion To Cold Itchy Throat Congested Nose Nasal Discharge

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Wind-Cold invading the Lungs Lack of sweating, Aversion to cold, Fever, Itchy throat, Shortness of breath, Congested nose, Nasal discharge, Sneezing, Headaches, Body pain, White and watery sputum, Coughing and wheezing with copious sputum... see more Ma Huang Tang | Ge Gen Tang | Xin Yi San | Zhi Sou San
Wind-Cold No sweat, Aversion to cold, Fever, Sneezing, Coughing, Nasal discharge, Occipital headache, Occipital stiffness, Congested nose, White and watery sputum... see more Ma Huang Tang | Jing Fang Bai Du San | Cong Chi Tang | Huo Ren Cong Shi Tang | Jiu Wei Qiang Huo Tang | Jia Wei Xiang Su San | Shi Shen Tang | Jin Fei Cao San | Wu Ji San
Early Stage Summerheat with Exterior Wind-Cold No sweating, Fever, Chills, Lack of sweating, Headaches, Thirst, Flushed face, Stifling sensation in the chest, Feeling of heaviness, Body pain, Dark urine, Urinary dysfunction... see more Xin Jia Xiang Ru Yin
Wind Cold with Internal Heat No sweating, High fever, Severe chills, Lack of sweating, Headaches, Feeling of heaviness, General sensation of tightness, Flushed face, Eye hyperemia, Dry nose, Thirst, Irritability, Insomnia, Cough of blood, Mottled skin... see more Shi Gao Tang
Wind-Cold invading with Yang Deficiency No sweating, Low grade fever, Severe chills, Exhaustion, Hypersomnia, Cold extremities, Lumbar pain, Lower back pain, Lower back coldness, General cold feeling, Lack of sweating, Headaches, Weak voice... see more Ma Huang Xi Xin Fu Zi Tang | Zai Zao 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 Lack Of Sweating

Common Symptoms: Feeling Of Heaviness Absence Of Thirst Muscle Pain Profuse White Sputum Body Pain Alternating Fever And Chills Upper Respiratory Tract Infections Viral Conjunctivitis

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Phlegm-Fluids in the limbs Absence of sweating, No sweat, Feeling of heaviness, Muscle pain, Lack of sweating, Absence of thirst, Profuse white sputum, Swollen limbs, Urinary dysfunction... see more Da Qing Long Tang | Xiao Qing Long Tang
Phlegm-Fluids above the diaphragm Absence of sweating, Coughing, Asthma, Edema, Stifling sensation in the chest, Dizziness, Profuse white sputum... see more Xiao Qing Long Tang | Ling Gan Wu Wei Jiang Xin Tang
Phlegm-Fluids No sweat, Abdominal distention, Vomiting clear liquid, Feeling of heaviness, Shortness of breath, Hypochondrial pain that is worse on coughing and breathing, Coughing, Lack of sweating, Absence of thirst, Edema, Chest distension... see more Er Chen Tang | Wen Dan Tang | Wu Ling San | Ling Gui Zhu Gan Tang
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 Lack Of Sweating

Common Symptoms: Headaches Thirst Flushed Face Feeling Of Heaviness Nighttime Fever Emaciation With No Loss Of Appetite Fever Chills

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Full Heat Yin Deficiency No sweat, Nighttime fever, Lack of sweating, Emaciation with no loss of appetite Qin Jiao Bie Jia San
Early Stage Summerheat with Exterior Wind-Cold No sweating, Fever, Chills, Lack of sweating, Headaches, Thirst, Flushed face, Stifling sensation in the chest, Feeling of heaviness, Body pain, Dark urine, Urinary dysfunction... see more Xin Jia Xiang Ru Yin
Wind Cold with Internal Heat No sweating, High fever, Severe chills, Lack of sweating, Headaches, Feeling of heaviness, General sensation of tightness, Flushed face, Eye hyperemia, Dry nose, Thirst, Irritability, Insomnia, Cough of blood, Mottled skin... see more Shi Gao Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Dampness

"Dampness" in TCM is a concept that describes a pattern of disharmony where the body accumulates excess moisture. Imagine the heavy, sticky feeling you get on a very humid day; that's similar to what dampness feels like internally. It can manifest as a sense of heaviness, bloating, sluggishness, or even a foggy mind. This condition is often thought to arise from environmental factors like living in a damp place, dietary habits that promote moisture in the body, or internal imbalances that hinder the body's ability to process fluids properly. In TCM, dampness can obstruct the normal flow of energy and fluids in the body, leading to various symptoms.... see more

Dampness Patterns That Can Lead to Lack Of Sweating

Common Symptoms: Headaches Fever Chills Thirst Flushed Face Stifling Sensation In The Chest Feeling Of Heaviness Body Pain

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Early Stage Summerheat with Exterior Wind-Cold No sweating, Fever, Chills, Lack of sweating, Headaches, Thirst, Flushed face, Stifling sensation in the chest, Feeling of heaviness, Body pain, Dark urine, Urinary dysfunction... see more Xin Jia Xiang Ru Yin
Exterior Cold with Interior Dampness in Summer No sweating, Chills with warm skin, Lack of sweating, Heavy sensation in the head, Headaches, Abdominal pain, Vomit, Diarrhea, Tight feeling in chest and stomach, Fatigued extremities, Nausea... see more Xiang Ru San
Detailed description of the cause

Yin Deficiency

Yin deficiency in TCM is a pattern of disharmony characterized by a depletion of the body's Yin energy, which represents the cooling, moistening, and nurturing aspects of our physiology. This condition often arises from factors like chronic stress, overwork, insufficient rest, or prolonged illness. Symptoms of Yin deficiency can include a sensation of heat, especially in the afternoon or evening, night sweats, insomnia, a dry mouth or throat, and a red tongue with little coating. There might also be a general feeling of restlessness or irritability. Since Yin is essential for balancing the body's active and warm Yang energy, its deficiency leads to a relative excess of Yang, manifesting as heat or dryness symptoms.... see more

Yin Deficiency Patterns That Can Lead to Lack Of Sweating

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Full Heat Yin Deficiency No sweat, Nighttime fever, Lack of sweating, Emaciation with no loss of appetite Qin Jiao Bie Jia San
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 Lack Of Sweating

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Yang Excess or Full Yang No sweat, Feeling of heat, Hyperactivity, Lack of sweating, Heat intolerance, Constipation Da Cheng Qi Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Yang Deficiency

Yang deficiency in TCM refers to a state where the body's Yang energy, which is responsible for warmth, activity, and function, is weakened or diminished. This pattern of disharmony often arises from chronic illness, aging, or inherent constitutional weakness. Symptoms of Yang deficiency are typically associated with cold and sluggishness, such as a feeling of coldness, cold extremities, pale complexion, low energy or fatigue, and a desire for warmth. Digestive issues like poor appetite, loose stools, and water retention can also be indicative of Yang deficiency.... see more

Yang Deficiency Patterns That Can Lead to Lack Of Sweating

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Wind-Cold invading with Yang Deficiency No sweating, Low grade fever, Severe chills, Exhaustion, Hypersomnia, Cold extremities, Lumbar pain, Lower back pain, Lower back coldness, General cold feeling, Lack of sweating, Headaches, Weak voice... see more Ma Huang Xi Xin Fu Zi Tang | Zai Zao San
Detailed description of the cause

Dryness

"Dryness" in TCM refers to a state where there is a lack of moisture in the body, much like how the land feels during a drought. It's a pattern of disharmony that can arise from external factors like dry weather or internal issues, such as insufficient fluid intake or certain lifestyle habits. When your body experiences this dryness, you might notice symptoms like dry skin, a scratchy throat, dry eyes, or even constipation. It's similar to the feeling of being parched or having dry, chapped lips in a very dry climate. TCM views this as an imbalance where the body's yin - often associated with moisture and cooling - is depleted.... see more

Dryness Patterns That Can Lead to Lack Of Sweating

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Dry-Cold No sweat, Fever, Headaches, Aversion to cold, Skin dryness, Lack of sweating, Dry mouth, Dry throat, Coughing, Scanty sputum... see more Xing Su San
Detailed description of the cause

Summer Heat

"Summer-Heat" in TCM is a unique concept that refers to a pattern of disharmony often associated with the hot summer months. Imagine the intense heat of summer stressing your body, like being in a sweltering, humid environment for too long. This can lead to symptoms like feeling overheated, excessive sweating, a feeling of irritation, and sometimes even nausea or dizziness. In TCM, this condition is thought to arise from the external environment's heat affecting the body's internal balance. It's similar to how we might feel uncomfortable and out of sorts on a very hot day. ... see more

Summer Heat Patterns That Can Lead to Lack Of Sweating

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Early Stage Summerheat with Exterior Wind-Cold No sweating, Fever, Chills, Lack of sweating, Headaches, Thirst, Flushed face, Stifling sensation in the chest, Feeling of heaviness, Body pain, Dark urine, Urinary dysfunction... see more Xin Jia Xiang Ru Yin
Detailed description of the cause

Lung

In TCM the Lungs are seen as the organ responsible for controlling Qi and respiration, as well as being a key part of the body's defensive system. They are thought to maintain the balance and flow of air and moisture, and are closely linked to the skin and hair. When the Lungs are imbalanced or malfunctioning in TCM, it can lead to respiratory issues like coughing or asthma, a weakened immune system, dry skin, and emotional disturbances such as sadness or grief. These symptoms are believed to arise from disruptions in the Lungs' ability to regulate Qi and protect the body, highlighting their central role in maintaining overall health and well-being.... see more

Lung Patterns That Can Lead to Lack Of Sweating

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Wind-Cold invading the Lungs Lack of sweating, Aversion to cold, Fever, Itchy throat, Shortness of breath, Congested nose, Nasal discharge, Sneezing, Headaches, Body pain, White and watery sputum, Coughing and wheezing with copious sputum... see more Ma Huang Tang | Ge Gen Tang | Xin Yi San | Zhi Sou San

TCM Herbal Formulas for Lack Of Sweating

To address lack of sweating caused by Cold invasion, TCM practitioners may recommend formulas such as Ma Huang Tang. This formula, which includes Ephedra (Ma Huang) as a key herb, is designed to clear Wind-Cold and release the exterior. It helps to open the pores and promote sweating, thereby relieving symptoms of Cold invasion.

For cases involving Phlegm accumulation, formulas like Da Qing Long Tang may be used. This formula, which also includes Ephedra (Ma Huang) as a key herb, is effective in treating patterns such as Phlegm-Fluids in the limbs. It works by clearing Wind-Cold, transforming Phlegm, and promoting the movement of fluids to restore the body's ability to sweat.

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

  • By Cause
  • By Formula Type
  • Cold
  • Wind
  • Phlegm
  • Heat
  • Dampness
  • Yin Deficiency
  • Yang Excess
  • Yang Deficiency
  • Dryness
  • Summer Heat
  • Formulas that clear wind-Cold
  • Formulas that clear exterior disorders with interior deficiency
  • Formulas that dry dampness and transform phlegm
  • Formulas that clear early-stage exterior disorders
  • Formulas that dispel summer-Heat and resolve exterior
  • Formulas that warm and transform phlegm-Cold
  • Formulas that dredge and disperse external wind
  • Formulas that transform phlegm and extinguish wind
  • Formulas that disperse dryness and moisten
  • Formulas that clear heat from deficiency
  • Formulas that promote urination and leach out dampness
  • Formulas that warm and transform water and dampness
  • External formulas for external disorders
  • Formulas that release the exterior and warm the interior
  • Formulas that purge heat accumulation
  • Formulas that release the exterior and clear the interior

All Formulas Recommended for Lack Of Sweating Caused by Cold

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Ma Huang Tang Greater Yang Attack of Cold, Wind-Cold invading the Lungs, Exterior-Cold, Wind-Cold... see more
Ge Gen Tang Wind-Cold invading the Lungs
Xin Yi San Wind-Cold invading the Lungs
Zhi Sou San Wind-Cold invading the Lungs
Xing Su San Dry-Cold
Gui Zhi Tang Exterior-Cold
Jing Fang Bai Du San Wind-Cold
Cong Chi Tang Wind-Cold
Huo Ren Cong Shi Tang Wind-Cold
Jiu Wei Qiang Huo Tang Wind-Cold
Jia Wei Xiang Su San Wind-Cold
Shi Shen Tang Wind-Cold
Jin Fei Cao San Wind-Cold
Wu Ji San Wind-Cold
Xin Jia Xiang Ru Yin Early Stage Summerheat with Exterior Wind-Cold
Xiang Ru San Exterior Cold with Interior Dampness in Summer
Shi Gao Tang Wind Cold with Internal Heat
Ma Huang Xi Xin Fu Zi Tang Wind-Cold invading with Yang Deficiency
Zai Zao San Wind-Cold invading with Yang Deficiency

All Formulas Recommended for Lack Of Sweating Caused by Wind

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Ma Huang Tang Wind-Cold invading the Lungs, Wind-Cold
Ge Gen Tang Wind-Cold invading the Lungs
Xin Yi San Wind-Cold invading the Lungs
Zhi Sou San Wind-Cold invading the Lungs
Jing Fang Bai Du San Wind-Cold
Cong Chi Tang Wind-Cold
Huo Ren Cong Shi Tang Wind-Cold
Jiu Wei Qiang Huo Tang Wind-Cold
Jia Wei Xiang Su San Wind-Cold
Shi Shen Tang Wind-Cold
Jin Fei Cao San Wind-Cold
Wu Ji San Wind-Cold
Xin Jia Xiang Ru Yin Early Stage Summerheat with Exterior Wind-Cold
Shi Gao Tang Wind Cold with Internal Heat
Ma Huang Xi Xin Fu Zi Tang Wind-Cold invading with Yang Deficiency
Zai Zao San Wind-Cold invading with Yang Deficiency

All Formulas Recommended for Lack Of Sweating Caused by Phlegm

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Xiao Qing Long Tang Phlegm-Fluids in the limbs, Phlegm-Fluids above the diaphragm
Da Qing Long Tang Phlegm-Fluids in the limbs
Ling Gan Wu Wei Jiang Xin Tang Phlegm-Fluids above the diaphragm
Er Chen Tang Phlegm-Fluids
Wen Dan Tang Phlegm-Fluids
Wu Ling San Phlegm-Fluids
Ling Gui Zhu Gan Tang Phlegm-Fluids

All Formulas Recommended for Lack Of Sweating Caused by Heat

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Qin Jiao Bie Jia San Full Heat Yin Deficiency
Xin Jia Xiang Ru Yin Early Stage Summerheat with Exterior Wind-Cold
Shi Gao Tang Wind Cold with Internal Heat

All Formulas Recommended for Lack Of Sweating Caused by Dampness

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Xin Jia Xiang Ru Yin Early Stage Summerheat with Exterior Wind-Cold
Xiang Ru San Exterior Cold with Interior Dampness in Summer

All Formulas Recommended for Lack Of Sweating Caused by Yang Deficiency

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Ma Huang Xi Xin Fu Zi Tang Wind-Cold invading with Yang Deficiency
Zai Zao San Wind-Cold invading with Yang Deficiency

All "formulas that clear wind-Cold" recommended for lack of sweating

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Ma Huang Tang Greater Yang Attack of Cold, Wind-Cold invading the Lungs, Exterior-Cold, Exterior-Full, Wind-Cold... see more
Xiao Qing Long Tang Phlegm-Fluids above the diaphragm, Phlegm-Fluids in the limbs
Da Qing Long Tang Phlegm-Fluids in the limbs
Ge Gen Tang Wind-Cold invading the Lungs
Gui Zhi Tang Exterior-Cold
Jiu Wei Qiang Huo Tang Wind-Cold
Jia Wei Xiang Su San Wind-Cold
Shi Shen Tang Wind-Cold
Jin Fei Cao San Wind-Cold

All "formulas that clear exterior disorders with interior deficiency" recommended for lack of sweating

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Cong Bai Qi Wei Yin Wind-Cold invading with Blood and Yin Deficiency
Ma Huang Xi Xin Fu Zi Tang Wind-Cold invading with Yang Deficiency
Zai Zao San Wind-Cold invading with Yang Deficiency

All "formulas that dispel summer-Heat and resolve exterior" recommended for lack of sweating

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Xin Jia Xiang Ru Yin Early Stage Summerheat with Exterior Wind-Cold
Xiang Ru San Exterior Cold with Interior Dampness in Summer

All "formulas that dry dampness and transform phlegm" recommended for lack of sweating

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

All "formulas that clear early-stage exterior disorders" recommended for lack of sweating

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Cong Chi Tang Wind-Cold
Huo Ren Cong Shi Tang Wind-Cold

Acupoints for Lack Of Sweating

In TCM, specific acupuncture points are utilized to address lack of sweating. One such point is Qucha BL-4, located 0.5 cun superior to the anterior hairline and 1.5 cun lateral to the anterior midline. This point helps to expel Wind-Heat and ease pain, benefiting the eyes and nose as well. Another important acupoint is Hegu LI-4, found between the first and second metacarpal bones. This point is known for its ability to expel exterior Wind, regulate defensive Qi, and harmonize the body's Yin and Yang.

By addressing the underlying patterns of disharmony through both herbal formulas and acupuncture, TCM provides a comprehensive approach to managing lack of sweating, helping to restore balance and improve overall well-being.

Explore below some acupoints used to address lack of sweating, organized by meridian.

  • By Meridian
  • Bladder Channel
  • Large Intestine Channel
  • Spleen Channel
Qucha BL-4

Qucha BL-4

0.5 cun superior to the anterior hairline and 1.5 cun lateral to the anterior midline, at the junction of the medial third and lateral two-thirds of the distance from anterior midline to Touwei ST-8.

Chengguang BL-6

Chengguang BL-6

1.5 cun lateral to the anterior midline and 2.5 cun within the anterior hairline. On the other hand, this point is at the medial third and lateral two-thirds of the distance from anterior midline to the line vertically from Touwei ST-8. Chengguang BL-6 is also 1.5 cun posterior to Wuchu BL-5.

Zhonglushu BL-29

Zhonglushu BL-29

At the level of the 3rd posterior sacral foramen, 1.5 cun lateral to the posterior midline.

Yixi BL-45

Yixi BL-45

3 cun (about 4 finger-breadths) lateral to the lower border of the spinous process of the 6th thoracic vertebra (T6).

Hegu LI-4

Hegu LI-4

Between the 1st and 2nd metacarpal bones, approximately in the middle of the 2nd metacarpal bone on the radial side.

Dadu SP-2

Dadu SP-2

On the medial aspect of the big toe, at the junction of the shaft and the base of the proximal phalanx, distal to the 1st metatarsophalangeal joint.