Aversion To Coldaccording to TCM

*redirected from Cold intolerance

9 causes

54 herbal formulas

37 acupoints

Symptom family: Cold Sensations and Intolerance

Sub-symptom(s): Slight Aversion To Cold

Did you mean? Chills

What is Aversion to Cold?

Aversion to cold is a condition characterized by a heightened sensitivity or discomfort in response to cold temperatures. Individuals with this symptom often prefer warmer environments and may experience a persistent feeling of coldness that is difficult to alleviate. This sensation can be particularly pronounced in specific parts of the body, such as the back. Understanding the underlying causes of aversion to cold is crucial for effective treatment and management.

How Does TCM View Aversion to Cold?

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), aversion to cold is seen as a manifestation of internal disharmony. TCM practitioners believe that this condition can arise from various imbalances within the body, such as Deficiencies or Stagnation in the flow of Qi and Blood. Unlike Western medicine, which might focus on physiological causes like hypothyroidism or poor circulation, TCM emphasizes the importance of diagnosing the specific pattern of disharmony to tailor an effective treatment plan.

Root Causes of Aversion To Cold in TCM

One common cause of aversion to cold in TCM is Wind, specifically patterns like Damp-Wind or Dry-Wind. Damp-Wind is characterized by symptoms such as aversion to cold, fever, neck gland swelling, nausea, and excessive sweating. Dry-Wind, on the other hand, presents with symptoms like aversion to cold, excessive sweating, skin dryness, dry nose and throat, and dry cough. These patterns highlight how external environmental factors combined with internal imbalances can lead to aversion to cold.

Another significant cause is Cold, with patterns such as Dry-Cold and Empty-Cold. Dry-Cold includes symptoms like aversion to cold, fever, headaches, skin dryness, and lack of sweating. Empty-Cold involves symptoms like chills, cold extremities, pale face, low energy, and clear urination.

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

By Syndrome
By Organ

Wind
Cold
Heat
Dampness
Yang Deficiency
Qi Deficiency
Dryness
Summer Heat
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Lung
Kidney
Liver
Bladder
Spleen
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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 Aversion To Cold

Common Symptoms: Fever Sneezing Headaches Nasal Discharge Coughing Body Pain Sore Throat Itchy Throat

Pattern Name	Relevant Symptoms	Relevant Formulas
Damp-Wind	Aversion to cold, Fever, Neck gland swelling, Nausea, Excessive sweating, Occipital stiffness, Body pain, Muscle pain, Feeling of heaviness, Swollen joints... see more	Qiang Huo Sheng Shi Tang \| Jiu Wei Qiang Huo Tang \| Cang Er Zi San \| Xiao Feng San \| Ku Shen Tang \| Hai Tong Pi Tang
Dry-Wind	Aversion to cold, Excessive sweating, Skin dryness, Dry nose, Dry mouth, Dry throat, Dry cough, Sore throat, Dry tongue... see more	Sang Xing Tang
Exterior Wind	Aversion to cold, Fever, Headaches, Anemophobia, Nasal discharge, Clear sputum, Itchy throat, Sneezing, Coughing, Muscle pain, Itchy skin... see more	Chuan Xiong Cha Tiao San
Greater Yang Accumulation of Water	Aversion to cold, Fever, Urinary retention, Slight thirst, Vomiting after eating	Wu Ling San
Wind-Cold	Aversion to cold, Fever, Sneezing, Coughing, Nasal discharge, Occipital headache, Occipital stiffness, Congested nose, White and watery sputum... see more	Jiu Wei Qiang Huo Tang \| Ma Huang Tang \| Jing Fang Bai Du San \| Cong Chi Tang \| Huo Ren Cong Shi Tang \| Jia Wei Xiang Su San \| Shi Shen Tang \| Jin Fei Cao San \| Wu Ji San
Wind-Cold invading the Lungs	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-Water invading the Lungs	Aversion to cold, Ocular swelling, Shiny complexion, Scanty clear urination, Fever, Coughing, Shortness of breath, Facial edema... see more	Xiao Qing Long Tang
Wind-Heat	Aversion to cold, Fever, Sneezing, Coughing, Nasal discharge, Occipital stiffness, Occipital headache, Excessive sweating, Sore throat, Yellowish phlegm... see more	Xiao Feng San \| Yin Qiao San \| Cong Chi Tang \| Huo Ren Cong Shi Tang \| Sang Ju Yin \| Jing Jie Lian Qiao Tang \| Zhu Ye Cheng Liu Tang \| Fang Feng Tong Sheng San \| Bing Peng San \| Pu Ji Xiao Du Yin
Wind-Heat invading the Lungs	Aversion to cold, Fever, Coughing, Sore throat, Congested nose, Nasal discharge, Copious thick yellow sputum, Sneezing, Headaches, Body pain, Thirst, Tonsil swelling... see more	Yin Qiao San
Greater Yang Attack of Wind	Slight aversion to cold, Anemophobia, Low grade fever, Mild sweating, Stiff neck, Sneezing, Occipital headache... see more	Gui Zhi Tang

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 Aversion To Cold

Common Symptoms: Fever Lack Of Sweating Chills Absence Of Thirst Shortness Of Breath Body Pain Headaches Coughing

Pattern Name	Relevant Symptoms	Relevant Formulas
Dry-Cold	Aversion to cold, Fever, Headaches, Skin dryness, Lack of sweating, Dry mouth, Dry throat, Coughing, Scanty sputum... see more	Xing Su San
Empty-Cold	Aversion to cold, Chills, Cold extremities, Pale face, Absence of thirst, Low energy, Excessive sweating, Diarrhea, Clear urination, Frequent urination... see more	Huang Qi Jian Zhong Tang \| Da Jian Zhong Tang \| Ban Liu Wan
Exterior-Cold	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
Greater Yang Attack of Cold	Aversion to cold, Occipital headache, Low grade fever, Lack of sweating, Stiff neck, Sneezing, Nasal discharge, Shortness of breath... see more	Ma Huang Tang
Wind-Cold	Aversion to cold, Fever, Sneezing, Coughing, Nasal discharge, Occipital headache, Occipital stiffness, Congested nose, White and watery sputum... see more	Jiu Wei Qiang Huo Tang \| Ma Huang Tang \| Jing Fang Bai Du San \| Cong Chi Tang \| Huo Ren Cong Shi Tang \| Jia Wei Xiang Su San \| Shi Shen Tang \| Jin Fei Cao San \| Wu Ji San
Wind-Cold invading the Lungs	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-Water invading the Lungs	Aversion to cold, Ocular swelling, Shiny complexion, Scanty clear urination, Fever, Coughing, Shortness of breath, Facial edema... see more	Xiao Qing Long Tang
Yang Deficiency with Cold-Damp	Aversion to cold - especially at the back, Body pain, Bone and joint pain, Cold extremities, Absence of thirst, Aversion to cold, Migraine, Cluster headache, Trigeminal neuralgia, Piriformis syndrome, Rheumatoid arthritis... see more	Fu Zi Tang

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 Aversion To Cold

Common Symptoms: Fever Thirst Headaches Excessive Sweating Sore Throat Dry Mouth Body Pain Sneezing

Pattern Name	Relevant Symptoms	Relevant Formulas
Damp-Heat	Aversion to cold, Fever, Neck gland swelling, Headaches, Tight feeling in chest and stomach, Sticky taste in the mouth, Absence of thirst, Feeling of heat, Feeling of heaviness, Bitter taste in the mouth, Acne... see more	Huo Xiang Zheng Qi San \| Lian Po Yin \| Yin Chen Hao Tang \| Gan Lu Xiao Du Dan
Dry-Heat or Dry-Fire	Aversion to cold, Fever, Thirst, Excessive sweating, Sore throat, Skin dryness, Dry nose, Dry throat, Dry cough, Dry mouth... see more	Xing Su San \| Qing Zao Jiu Fei Tang \| Sang Xing Tang
Exterior-Heat	Aversion to cold, Fever, Excessive sweating, Thirst, Body pain, Stiff neck	Yin Qiao San \| Shi Gao Tang
Wind-Heat	Aversion to cold, Fever, Sneezing, Coughing, Nasal discharge, Occipital stiffness, Occipital headache, Excessive sweating, Sore throat, Yellowish phlegm... see more	Xiao Feng San \| Yin Qiao San \| Cong Chi Tang \| Huo Ren Cong Shi Tang \| Sang Ju Yin \| Jing Jie Lian Qiao Tang \| Zhu Ye Cheng Liu Tang \| Fang Feng Tong Sheng San \| Bing Peng San \| Pu Ji Xiao Du Yin
Wind-Heat invading the Lungs	Aversion to cold, Fever, Coughing, Sore throat, Congested nose, Nasal discharge, Copious thick yellow sputum, Sneezing, Headaches, Body pain, Thirst, Tonsil swelling... see more	Yin Qiao San

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 Aversion To Cold

Common Symptoms: Fever Feeling Of Heaviness Neck Gland Swelling Headaches Tight Feeling In Chest And Stomach Absence Of Thirst Thirst Lack Of Appetite

Pattern Name	Relevant Symptoms	Relevant Formulas
Damp-Heat	Aversion to cold, Fever, Neck gland swelling, Headaches, Tight feeling in chest and stomach, Sticky taste in the mouth, Absence of thirst, Feeling of heat, Feeling of heaviness, Bitter taste in the mouth, Acne... see more	Huo Xiang Zheng Qi San \| Lian Po Yin \| Yin Chen Hao Tang \| Gan Lu Xiao Du Dan
Damp-Wind	Aversion to cold, Fever, Neck gland swelling, Nausea, Excessive sweating, Occipital stiffness, Body pain, Muscle pain, Feeling of heaviness, Swollen joints... see more	Qiang Huo Sheng Shi Tang \| Jiu Wei Qiang Huo Tang \| Cang Er Zi San \| Xiao Feng San \| Ku Shen Tang \| Hai Tong Pi Tang
Summer Heat with Dampness	Aversion to cold, Fever, Excessive sweating, Headaches, Feeling of heaviness, Tight feeling in chest and stomach, Anxiety, Thirst, Chest distension, Lack of appetite... see more	Huo Xiang Zheng Qi San \| Xiang Ru San \| Gui Ling Gan Lu Yin
Wind-Cold-Water invading the Lungs	Aversion to cold, Ocular swelling, Shiny complexion, Scanty clear urination, Fever, Coughing, Shortness of breath, Facial edema... see more	Xiao Qing Long Tang
Yang Deficiency with Cold-Damp	Aversion to cold - especially at the back, Body pain, Bone and joint pain, Cold extremities, Absence of thirst, Aversion to cold, Migraine, Cluster headache, Trigeminal neuralgia, Piriformis syndrome, Rheumatoid arthritis... see more	Fu Zi Tang

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 Aversion To Cold

Common Symptoms: Erectile Dysfunction Cold Extremities General Cold Feeling Rheumatoid Arthritis Periarthritis Of The Shoulder Lumbar Disc Disease Eczema Chills

Pattern Name	Relevant Symptoms	Relevant Formulas
Kidney Yang Deficiency	Aversion to cold, Lower back pain, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Weak and cold knees, Lower back coldness, Chills, Weak legs, Bright pale face, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Leg edema, Female infertility, Diarrhea, Depression, Erectile dysfunction, Premature ejaculation, Oligospermia, Low sex drive, Pale and abudant urination, Constipation... see more	You Gui Wan
Yang Deficiency or Empty Yang	Fear of cold, Chills, General cold feeling, Pale urine, Undigested food in stools, General weakness, Abdominal pain relieved by pressure and warmth, Frequent urination, Polyuria, Nocturia, White vaginal discharge... see more	Ban Liu Wan \| You Gui Wan \| Ba Wei Di Huang Wan
Painful Obstruction with Liver and Kidney Deficiency	Aversion to cold, Lower back and leg pain and heaviness, Weakness and stiffness, General cold feeling, Palpitations, Shortness of breath, Chronic lower back pain, Sciatica, Osteoarthritis, Rheumatoid arthritis, Periarthritis of the shoulder... see more	Du Huo Ji Sheng Tang
Yang Deficiency with Cold-Damp	Aversion to cold - especially at the back, Body pain, Bone and joint pain, Cold extremities, Absence of thirst, Aversion to cold, Migraine, Cluster headache, Trigeminal neuralgia, Piriformis syndrome, Rheumatoid arthritis... see more	Fu Zi Tang

Qi Deficiency

Qi Deficiency in TCM is like running low on battery power. Qi is the vital energy that powers every function in your body. When there's a Qi Deficiency, it means your body doesn't have enough of this essential energy. This can make you feel tired all the time, weak, or even cause shortness of breath. It's similar to how you feel when you haven't had enough sleep or nutritious food. Your body just doesn't have the energy it needs to perform at its best. Unlike modern medicine, which often focuses on specific physical causes for fatigue and weakness, TCM views Qi Deficiency as an overall energy depletion that affects your entire well-being, and it seeks to replenish and balance this vital energy.... see more

Qi Deficiency Patterns That Can Lead to Aversion To Cold

Common Symptoms: Spontaneous Sweat Abnormal Uterine Bleeding Reluctance To Speak Shortness Of Breath Coughing Weak Voice Pale Face Generalized Fatigue

Pattern Name	Relevant Symptoms	Relevant Formulas
Lung Qi Deficiency	Aversion to cold, Daytime sweating, Reluctance to speak	Si Jun Zi Tang \| Jiu Xian San \| Bu Fei Tang \| Ren Shen Ge Jie San \| Zhi Gan Cao Tang
Spleen and Lung Qi Deficiency	Aversion to cold, Lack of appetite, Slight abdominal distension after eating, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Pale face, Weak limbs, Diarrhea, Obesity, Shortness of breath, Coughing, Weak voice, Spontaneous sweat, Reluctance to speak, Frequent colds or flu... see more	Si Jun Zi Tang \| Liu Jun Zi Tang
Qi Deficiency Fever	Aversion to cold, Intermittent fever that worsens upon exertion, Spontaneous sweat, Craving for hot beverages, Chronic hepatitis, Arrhythmia, Hypertension, Chronic bronchitis, Chronic rhinitis, Aphthous stomatitis, Chronic laryngitis... see more	Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang

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 Aversion To Cold

Common Symptoms: Skin Dryness Dry Mouth Dry Throat Dry Nose Fever Excessive Sweating Sore Throat Dry Cough

Pattern Name	Relevant Symptoms	Relevant Formulas
Dry-Cold	Aversion to cold, Fever, Headaches, Skin dryness, Lack of sweating, Dry mouth, Dry throat, Coughing, Scanty sputum... see more	Xing Su San
Dry-Heat or Dry-Fire	Aversion to cold, Fever, Thirst, Excessive sweating, Sore throat, Skin dryness, Dry nose, Dry throat, Dry cough, Dry mouth... see more	Xing Su San \| Qing Zao Jiu Fei Tang \| Sang Xing Tang
Dry-Wind	Aversion to cold, Excessive sweating, Skin dryness, Dry nose, Dry mouth, Dry throat, Dry cough, Sore throat, Dry tongue... see more	Sang Xing Tang

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 Aversion To Cold

Common Symptoms: Fever Excessive Sweating Headaches Feeling Of Heaviness Thirst Diarrhea Tight Feeling In Chest And Stomach Anxiety

Pattern Name	Relevant Symptoms	Relevant Formulas
Summer Heat with Dampness	Aversion to cold, Fever, Excessive sweating, Headaches, Feeling of heaviness, Tight feeling in chest and stomach, Anxiety, Thirst, Chest distension, Lack of appetite... see more	Huo Xiang Zheng Qi San \| Xiang Ru San \| Gui Ling Gan Lu Yin
Summer-Heat	Aversion to cold, Fever, Excessive sweating, Headaches, Feeling of heaviness, Upper abdominal discomfort, Irritability, Thirst... see more	Qing Luo Yin \| Qing Shu Yi Qi Tang

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 Aversion To Cold

Common Symptoms: Shortness Of Breath Coughing Fever Reluctance To Speak Weak Voice Pale Face Generalized Fatigue Frequent Colds Or Flu

Pattern Name	Relevant Symptoms	Relevant Formulas
Lung Qi Deficiency	Aversion to cold, Daytime sweating, Reluctance to speak	Si Jun Zi Tang \| Jiu Xian San \| Bu Fei Tang \| Ren Shen Ge Jie San \| Zhi Gan Cao Tang
Spleen and Lung Qi Deficiency	Aversion to cold, Lack of appetite, Slight abdominal distension after eating, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Pale face, Weak limbs, Diarrhea, Obesity, Shortness of breath, Coughing, Weak voice, Spontaneous sweat, Reluctance to speak, Frequent colds or flu... see more	Si Jun Zi Tang \| Liu Jun Zi Tang
Wind-Cold invading the Lungs	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-Water invading the Lungs	Aversion to cold, Ocular swelling, Shiny complexion, Scanty clear urination, Fever, Coughing, Shortness of breath, Facial edema... see more	Xiao Qing Long Tang
Wind-Heat invading the Lungs	Aversion to cold, Fever, Coughing, Sore throat, Congested nose, Nasal discharge, Copious thick yellow sputum, Sneezing, Headaches, Body pain, Thirst, Tonsil swelling... see more	Yin Qiao San

Kidney

In TCM the Kidneys are regarded as the body's most fundamental reservoir of Essence, known as Jing, which influences growth, reproduction, and aging. They are not just organs for filtering blood, but a holistic system governing vital life forces. When the Kidneys malfunction in TCM, it can manifest as a variety of health issues, such as chronic fatigue, reproductive problems, imbalances in fluid metabolism leading to edema or dryness, lower back pain, and a sense of fear or insecurity.... see more

Kidney Patterns That Can Lead to Aversion To Cold

Common Symptoms: Eczema Lower Back And Leg Pain And Heaviness Weakness And Stiffness General Cold Feeling Palpitations Shortness Of Breath Chronic Lower Back Pain Sciatica

Pattern Name	Relevant Symptoms	Relevant Formulas
Kidney Yang Deficiency	Aversion to cold, Lower back pain, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Weak and cold knees, Lower back coldness, Chills, Weak legs, Bright pale face, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Leg edema, Female infertility, Diarrhea, Depression, Erectile dysfunction, Premature ejaculation, Oligospermia, Low sex drive, Pale and abudant urination, Constipation... see more	You Gui Wan
Painful Obstruction with Liver and Kidney Deficiency	Aversion to cold, Lower back and leg pain and heaviness, Weakness and stiffness, General cold feeling, Palpitations, Shortness of breath, Chronic lower back pain, Sciatica, Osteoarthritis, Rheumatoid arthritis, Periarthritis of the shoulder... see more	Du Huo Ji Sheng Tang

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 Aversion To Cold

Pattern Name	Relevant Symptoms	Relevant Formulas
Painful Obstruction with Liver and Kidney Deficiency	Aversion to cold, Lower back and leg pain and heaviness, Weakness and stiffness, General cold feeling, Palpitations, Shortness of breath, Chronic lower back pain, Sciatica, Osteoarthritis, Rheumatoid arthritis, Periarthritis of the shoulder... see more	Du Huo Ji Sheng Tang

Bladder

In TCM the Bladder plays a crucial role beyond its basic function of storing and excreting urine. It is intimately connected with the Kidney system, helping to regulate the body's water balance and being a key component in the processing and elimination of fluids. The Bladder also influences the lower part of the body and the back. When it malfunctions or is imbalanced in TCM, it can lead to urinary issues like frequent urination, incontinence, or painful urination. Additionally, there may be problems related to its meridian pathway, such as lower back pain, stiffness, or weakness in the legs. The Bladder’s condition in TCM can also reflect emotional states, with imbalances potentially leading to feelings of fear or anxiety.... see more

Bladder Patterns That Can Lead to Aversion To Cold

Pattern Name	Relevant Symptoms	Relevant Formulas
Greater Yang Accumulation of Water	Aversion to cold, Fever, Urinary retention, Slight thirst, Vomiting after eating	Wu Ling San

Spleen

In TCM the Spleen plays a vital role in digestion and transformation, converting food into energy and nutrients, and overseeing the distribution of Qi and Blood. It's also crucial in maintaining the health of muscles and limbs and ensuring the blood remains within the vessels. When the Spleen malfunctions in TCM, it can lead to a variety of issues such as digestive disorders, fatigue, weak muscles, bloating, and a feeling of heaviness. It can also cause a pale complexion, poor appetite, and a tendency to bruise easily. Emotionally, a Spleen imbalance is often associated with excessive worry or overthinking, reflecting its role in the interplay between physical and mental health.... see more

Spleen Patterns That Can Lead to Aversion To Cold

Pattern Name	Relevant Symptoms	Relevant Formulas
Spleen and Lung Qi Deficiency	Aversion to cold, Lack of appetite, Slight abdominal distension after eating, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Pale face, Weak limbs, Diarrhea, Obesity, Shortness of breath, Coughing, Weak voice, Spontaneous sweat, Reluctance to speak, Frequent colds or flu... see more	Si Jun Zi Tang \| Liu Jun Zi Tang

TCM Herbal Formulas for Aversion To Cold

TCM treatment for aversion to cold involves using specific herbal formulas tailored to the identified pattern of disharmony. For Damp-Wind, Qiang Huo Sheng Shi Tang is recommended, featuring Notopterygium Roots as a key herb to release the Exterior and dispel Dampness. For Dry-Wind, Sang Xing Tang with Mulberry leaves is used to clear Dryness and release the Exterior.

In cases of Dry-Cold, Xing Su San is prescribed, leveraging the moistening properties of Apricot Seeds. For Empty-Cold, Huang Qi Jian Zhong Tang is beneficial, with Milkvetch Roots helping to warm the Middle and dispel Cold. These formulas and herbs work by addressing the root cause of the symptom, providing relief and restoring balance.

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

By Cause
By Formula Type

Wind
Cold
Heat
Dampness
Yang Deficiency
Qi Deficiency
Dryness
Summer Heat
View More Causes

View More Causes

Formulas that clear wind-Cold
Formulas that tonify qi
External formulas for external disorders
Formulas that dredge and disperse external wind
Formulas that clear heat and expel dampness
Formulas that clear wind-Heat
Formulas that dispel wind-Damp
Formulas that disperse dryness and moisten
Formulas that warm the middle and dispel cold
Formulas that clear early-stage exterior disorders
Formulas that transform dampness and harmonize stomach
Formulas that clear dryness
Formulas that warm and purge
Formulas that release the exterior and clear the interior
Formulas that promote urination and leach out dampness
Formulas that secure lungs and stop coughing
Formulas that tonify qi and blood
Formulas that dispel summer-Heat and resolve exterior
Formulas that dispel summer-Heat and facilitate resolution of dampness
Formulas that dispel summer-Heat and clear heat
Formulas that dispel summer-Heat and augment qi
Formulas that release the exterior and warm the interior
Formulas that transform phlegm and extinguish wind
Formulas that release the exterior and purge the interior
Formulas that clear heat and resolve toxicity
Formulas that warm yang and tonify
Formulas that nourish yin and tonify
Formulas that warm and transform water and dampness

View More Types

Top Formula for Wind:
Ma Huang Tang

Suitable for Wind patterns that may cause aversion to cold, such as Wind-Cold or Wind-Cold invading the Lungs

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All Formulas Recommended for Aversion To Cold Caused by Wind

Formula	Patterns Suitable For
Ma Huang Tang	Wind-Cold, Wind-Cold invading the Lungs
Yin Qiao San	Wind-Heat, Wind-Heat invading the Lungs
Jiu Wei Qiang Huo Tang	Damp-Wind, Wind-Cold
Xiao Feng San	Damp-Wind, Wind-Heat
Cong Chi Tang	Wind-Cold, Wind-Heat
Huo Ren Cong Shi Tang	Wind-Cold, Wind-Heat
Gui Zhi Tang	Greater Yang Attack of Wind
Sang Xing Tang	Dry-Wind
Qiang Huo Sheng Shi Tang	Damp-Wind
Cang Er Zi San	Damp-Wind
Ku Shen Tang	Damp-Wind
Hai Tong Pi Tang	Damp-Wind
Chuan Xiong Cha Tiao San	Exterior Wind
Wu Ling San	Greater Yang Accumulation of Water
Jing Fang Bai Du San	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
Ge Gen Tang	Wind-Cold invading the Lungs
Xin Yi San	Wind-Cold invading the Lungs
Zhi Sou San	Wind-Cold invading the Lungs
Xiao Qing Long Tang	Wind-Cold-Water invading the Lungs
Sang Ju Yin	Wind-Heat
Jing Jie Lian Qiao Tang	Wind-Heat
Zhu Ye Cheng Liu Tang	Wind-Heat
Fang Feng Tong Sheng San	Wind-Heat
Bing Peng San	Wind-Heat
Pu Ji Xiao Du Yin	Wind-Heat

Top Formula for Cold:
Ma Huang Tang

Suitable for Cold patterns that may cause aversion to cold, such as Exterior-Cold or Greater Yang Attack of Cold

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All Formulas Recommended for Aversion To Cold Caused by Cold

Formula	Patterns Suitable For
Ma Huang Tang	Exterior-Cold, Greater Yang Attack of Cold, Wind-Cold, Wind-Cold invading the Lungs... see more
Gui Zhi Tang	Exterior-Cold
Xing Su San	Dry-Cold
Ban Liu Wan	Empty-Cold
Jiu Wei Qiang Huo Tang	Wind-Cold
Cong Chi Tang	Wind-Cold
Huo Ren Cong Shi Tang	Wind-Cold
Huang Qi Jian Zhong Tang	Empty-Cold
Da Jian Zhong Tang	Empty-Cold
Jing Fang Bai Du San	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
Ge Gen Tang	Wind-Cold invading the Lungs
Xin Yi San	Wind-Cold invading the Lungs
Zhi Sou San	Wind-Cold invading the Lungs
Xiao Qing Long Tang	Wind-Cold-Water invading the Lungs
Fu Zi Tang	Yang Deficiency with Cold-Damp

Top Formula for Heat:
Yin Qiao San

Suitable for Heat patterns that may cause aversion to cold, such as Exterior-Heat or Wind-Heat

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All Formulas Recommended for Aversion To Cold Caused by Heat

Formula	Patterns Suitable For
Yin Qiao San	Exterior-Heat, Wind-Heat, Wind-Heat invading the Lungs
Huo Xiang Zheng Qi San	Damp-Heat
Xing Su San	Dry-Heat or Dry-Fire
Sang Xing Tang	Dry-Heat or Dry-Fire
Xiao Feng San	Wind-Heat
Cong Chi Tang	Wind-Heat
Huo Ren Cong Shi Tang	Wind-Heat
Lian Po Yin	Damp-Heat
Yin Chen Hao Tang	Damp-Heat
Gan Lu Xiao Du Dan	Damp-Heat
Qing Zao Jiu Fei Tang	Dry-Heat or Dry-Fire
Shi Gao Tang	Exterior-Heat
Sang Ju Yin	Wind-Heat
Jing Jie Lian Qiao Tang	Wind-Heat
Zhu Ye Cheng Liu Tang	Wind-Heat
Fang Feng Tong Sheng San	Wind-Heat
Bing Peng San	Wind-Heat
Pu Ji Xiao Du Yin	Wind-Heat

Top Formula for Dampness:
Huo Xiang Zheng Qi San

Suitable for Dampness patterns that may cause aversion to cold, such as Damp-Heat or Summer Heat with Dampness

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All Formulas Recommended for Aversion To Cold Caused by Dampness

Formula	Patterns Suitable For
Huo Xiang Zheng Qi San	Damp-Heat, Summer Heat with Dampness
Jiu Wei Qiang Huo Tang	Damp-Wind
Xiao Feng San	Damp-Wind
Lian Po Yin	Damp-Heat
Yin Chen Hao Tang	Damp-Heat
Gan Lu Xiao Du Dan	Damp-Heat
Qiang Huo Sheng Shi Tang	Damp-Wind
Cang Er Zi San	Damp-Wind
Ku Shen Tang	Damp-Wind
Hai Tong Pi Tang	Damp-Wind
Xiang Ru San	Summer Heat with Dampness
Gui Ling Gan Lu Yin	Summer Heat with Dampness
Xiao Qing Long Tang	Wind-Cold-Water invading the Lungs
Fu Zi Tang	Yang Deficiency with Cold-Damp

Top Formula for Yang Deficiency:
You Gui Wan

Suitable for Yang Deficiency patterns that may cause aversion to cold, such as Kidney Yang Deficiency or Yang Deficiency or Empty Yang

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All Formulas Recommended for Aversion To Cold Caused by Yang Deficiency

Formula	Patterns Suitable For
You Gui Wan	Kidney Yang Deficiency, Yang Deficiency or Empty Yang
Ban Liu Wan	Yang Deficiency or Empty Yang
Du Huo Ji Sheng Tang	Painful Obstruction with Liver and Kidney Deficiency
Ba Wei Di Huang Wan	Yang Deficiency or Empty Yang
Fu Zi Tang	Yang Deficiency with Cold-Damp

Top Formula for Qi Deficiency:
Si Jun Zi Tang

Suitable for Qi Deficiency patterns that may cause aversion to cold, such as Lung Qi Deficiency or Spleen and Lung Qi Deficiency

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All Formulas Recommended for Aversion To Cold Caused by Qi Deficiency

Formula	Patterns Suitable For
Si Jun Zi Tang	Lung Qi Deficiency, Spleen and Lung Qi Deficiency
Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang	Qi Deficiency Fever
Jiu Xian San	Lung Qi Deficiency
Bu Fei Tang	Lung Qi Deficiency
Ren Shen Ge Jie San	Lung Qi Deficiency
Zhi Gan Cao Tang	Lung Qi Deficiency
Liu Jun Zi Tang	Spleen and Lung Qi Deficiency

Top Formula for Dryness:
Xing Su San

Suitable for Dryness patterns that may cause aversion to cold, such as Dry-Cold or Dry-Heat or Dry-Fire

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All Formulas Recommended for Aversion To Cold Caused by Dryness

Formula	Patterns Suitable For
Xing Su San	Dry-Cold, Dry-Heat or Dry-Fire
Sang Xing Tang	Dry-Heat or Dry-Fire, Dry-Wind
Qing Zao Jiu Fei Tang	Dry-Heat or Dry-Fire

Top Formula for Summer Heat:
Huo Xiang Zheng Qi San

Suitable for Summer Heat patterns that may cause aversion to cold, such as Summer Heat with Dampness

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All Formulas Recommended for Aversion To Cold Caused by Summer Heat

Formula	Patterns Suitable For
Huo Xiang Zheng Qi San	Summer Heat with Dampness
Xiang Ru San	Summer Heat with Dampness
Gui Ling Gan Lu Yin	Summer Heat with Dampness
Qing Luo Yin	Summer-Heat
Qing Shu Yi Qi Tang	Summer-Heat

Formulas that clear Wind-Cold

These formulas are suitable for some aversion to cold-causing patterns like Exterior-Cold or Exterior-Full.

One such formula is Ma Huang Tang, with ephedra as a key herb.

Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.

All "formulas that clear wind-Cold" recommended for aversion to cold

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

External formulas for External disorders

These formulas are suitable for some aversion to cold-causing patterns like Exterior-Heat or Wind-Heat.

One such formula is Yin Qiao San, with honeysuckle flowers as a key herb.

Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.

All "external formulas for external disorders" recommended for aversion to cold

Formula	Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Yin Qiao San	Exterior-Heat, Wind-Heat, Wind-Heat invading the Lungs
Ku Shen Tang	Damp-Wind
Hai Tong Pi Tang	Damp-Wind
Jing Fang Bai Du San	Wind-Cold
Bing Peng San	Wind-Heat

Formulas that dredge and disperse External Wind

These formulas are suitable for some aversion to cold-causing patterns like Damp-Wind or Wind-Heat.

One such formula is Xiao Feng San, with japanese catnip as a key herb.

Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.

All "formulas that dredge and disperse external wind" recommended for aversion to cold

Formula	Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Xiao Feng San	Damp-Wind, Wind-Heat
Cang Er Zi San	Damp-Wind
Chuan Xiong Cha Tiao San	Exterior Wind
Xin Yi San	Wind-Cold invading the Lungs

Formulas that tonify Qi

These formulas are suitable for some aversion to cold-causing patterns like Lung Qi Deficiency or Spleen and Lung Qi Deficiency.

One such formula is Si Jun Zi Tang, with ginseng as a key herb.

Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.

All "formulas that tonify qi" recommended for aversion to cold

Formula	Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Si Jun Zi Tang	Lung Qi Deficiency, Spleen and Lung Qi Deficiency
Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang	Qi Deficiency Fever
Bu Fei Tang	Lung Qi Deficiency
Ren Shen Ge Jie San	Lung Qi Deficiency
Liu Jun Zi Tang	Spleen and Lung Qi Deficiency

Formulas that dispel Wind-Damp

These formulas are suitable for some aversion to cold-causing patterns like Damp-Wind.

One such formula is Qiang Huo Sheng Shi Tang, with notopterygium root as a key herb.

Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.

All "formulas that dispel wind-Damp" recommended for aversion to cold

Formula	Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Qiang Huo Sheng Shi Tang	Damp-Wind
Du Huo Ji Sheng Tang	Painful Obstruction with Liver and Kidney Deficiency

Formulas that disperse Dryness and moisten

These formulas are suitable for some aversion to cold-causing patterns like Dry-Cold or Dry-Heat or Dry-Fire.

One such formula is Xing Su San, with apricot seed as a key herb.

Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.

All "formulas that disperse dryness and moisten" recommended for aversion to cold

Formula	Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Xing Su San	Dry-Cold, Dry-Heat or Dry-Fire
Qing Zao Jiu Fei Tang	Dry-Heat or Dry-Fire

Formulas that clear early-stage Exterior disorders

These formulas are suitable for some aversion to cold-causing patterns like Wind-Cold or Wind-Heat.

One such formula is Cong Chi Tang, with scallions as a key herb.

Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.

All "formulas that clear early-stage exterior disorders" recommended for aversion to cold

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

Formulas that transform Dampness and harmonize Stomach

These formulas are suitable for some aversion to cold-causing patterns like Damp-Heat or Summer Heat with Dampness.

One such formula is Huo Xiang Zheng Qi San, with korean mint as a key herb.

Formulas that clear Dryness

These formulas are suitable for some aversion to cold-causing patterns like Dry-Heat or Dry-Fire or Dry-Wind.

One such formula is Sang Xing Tang, with mulberry leaves as a key herb.

Formulas that warm and purge

These formulas are suitable for some aversion to cold-causing patterns like Empty-Cold or Yang Deficiency or Empty Yang.

One such formula is Ban Liu Wan, with sulfur as a key herb.

Formulas that warm Yang and tonify

These formulas are suitable for some aversion to cold-causing patterns like Kidney Yang Deficiency or Yang Deficiency or Empty Yang.

One such formula is You Gui Wan, with prepared aconite as a key herb.

Formulas that clear Heat and expel dampness

These formulas are suitable for some aversion to cold-causing patterns like Damp-Heat.

One such formula is Lian Po Yin, with goldthread rhizome as a key herb.

Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.

All "formulas that clear heat and expel dampness" recommended for aversion to cold

Formula	Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Lian Po Yin	Damp-Heat
Yin Chen Hao Tang	Damp-Heat
Gan Lu Xiao Du Dan	Damp-Heat

Formulas that clear Wind-Heat

These formulas are suitable for some aversion to cold-causing patterns like Wind-Heat.

One such formula is Sang Ju Yin, with mulberry leaves as a key herb.

Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.

All "formulas that clear wind-Heat" recommended for aversion to cold

Formula	Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Sang Ju Yin	Wind-Heat
Jing Jie Lian Qiao Tang	Wind-Heat
Zhu Ye Cheng Liu Tang	Wind-Heat

Formulas that warm the middle and dispel Cold

These formulas are suitable for some aversion to cold-causing patterns like Empty-Cold.

One such formula is Huang Qi Jian Zhong Tang, with milkvetch root as a key herb.

Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.

All "formulas that warm the middle and dispel cold" recommended for aversion to cold

Formula	Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Huang Qi Jian Zhong Tang	Empty-Cold
Da Jian Zhong Tang	Empty-Cold

Formulas that Release the Exterior and Clear the Interior

These formulas are suitable for some aversion to cold-causing patterns like Exterior-Heat.

One such formula is Shi Gao Tang, with gypsum as a key herb.

Formulas that promote urination and leach out Dampness

These formulas are suitable for some aversion to cold-causing patterns like Greater Yang Accumulation of Water.

One such formula is Wu Ling San, with water plantain as a key herb.

Formulas that secure Lungs and stop coughing

These formulas are suitable for some aversion to cold-causing patterns like Lung Qi Deficiency.

One such formula is Jiu Xian San, with poppy capsule as a key herb.

Formulas that tonify Qi and Blood

These formulas are suitable for some aversion to cold-causing patterns like Lung Qi Deficiency.

One such formula is Zhi Gan Cao Tang, with liquorice as a key herb.

Formulas that dispel Summer-Heat and resolve Exterior

These formulas are suitable for some aversion to cold-causing patterns like Summer Heat with Dampness.

One such formula is Xiang Ru San, with vietnamese balm as a key herb.

Formulas that dispel Summer-Heat and facilitate resolution of Dampness

These formulas are suitable for some aversion to cold-causing patterns like Summer Heat with Dampness.

One such formula is Gui Ling Gan Lu Yin, with talc as a key herb.

Formulas that dispel Summer-Heat and clear Heat

These formulas are suitable for some aversion to cold-causing patterns like Summer-Heat.

One such formula is Qing Luo Yin, with honeysuckle flowers as a key herb.

Formulas that dispel Summer-Heat and augment Qi

These formulas are suitable for some aversion to cold-causing patterns like Summer-Heat.

One such formula is Qing Shu Yi Qi Tang, with american ginseng as a key herb.

Formulas that Release the Exterior and Warm the Interior

These formulas are suitable for some aversion to cold-causing patterns like Wind-Cold.

One such formula is Wu Ji San, with ephedra as a key herb.

Formulas that transform Phlegm and extinguish Wind

These formulas are suitable for some aversion to cold-causing patterns like Wind-Cold invading the Lungs.

One such formula is Zhi Sou San, with aster root as a key herb.

Formulas that release the Exterior and purge the Interior

These formulas are suitable for some aversion to cold-causing patterns like Wind-Heat.

One such formula is Fang Feng Tong Sheng San, with saposhnikovia root as a key herb.

Formulas that clear Heat and resolve toxicity

These formulas are suitable for some aversion to cold-causing patterns like Wind-Heat.

One such formula is Pu Ji Xiao Du Yin, with baikal skullcap root as a key herb.

Formulas that nourish Yin and tonify

These formulas are suitable for some aversion to cold-causing patterns like Yang Deficiency or Empty Yang.

One such formula is Ba Wei Di Huang Wan, with prepared rehmannia as a key herb.

Formulas that warm and transform water and Dampness

These formulas are suitable for some aversion to cold-causing patterns like Yang Deficiency with Cold-Damp.

One such formula is Fu Zi Tang, with prepared aconite as a key herb.

Acupoints for Aversion To Cold

Acupuncture is also a key component of TCM treatment for aversion to cold. Specific acupoints are targeted to balance the body's internal energies and alleviate cold sensations. In the Bladder Channel, Dazhu BL-11 and Feishu BL-13 are effective points. Dazhu BL-11, located on the level of the lower border of the spinous process of the 1st thoracic vertebra, helps nourish Blood and expel Wind.

Feishu BL-13, located 1.5 cun lateral to the lower border of the spinous process of the 3rd thoracic vertebra, tonifies Lung Qi and clears Lung Heat. These acupoints, among others, help regulate the body's response to cold and improve overall energy flow, providing a comprehensive approach to managing aversion to cold. Through a combination of herbal formulas and acupuncture, TCM offers a holistic and effective treatment for this common symptom.

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