Symptom family: Fever and Temperature-Related Conditions

Parent symptom: Fever

What is high fever?

High fever, medically known as hyperthermia, is a condition where the body's temperature rises significantly above the normal range. Typically defined as a body temperature exceeding 103°F (39.4°C), high fever can result from various infections, inflammatory conditions, heat exhaustion, or other health issues. Symptoms accompanying high fever may include excessive sweating, chills, headache, muscle aches, dehydration, and general weakness. It is a severe symptom requiring prompt medical attention to identify and treat the underlying cause.

How does TCM view high fever?

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), high fever is seen as a manifestation of internal imbalances. Unlike Western medicine, which often focuses on external pathogens, TCM attributes high fever to disharmonies within the body’s systems. These imbalances can result from factors such as Heat, Wind, Cold, and Qi Deficiency. The holistic approach of TCM emphasizes diagnosing the specific pattern of disharmony before selecting an appropriate treatment strategy, ensuring that the root cause of the fever is addressed effectively.

Root Causes of High Fever in TCM

From a TCM perspective, high fever can arise from various patterns of disharmony within the body. One common cause is Bright Yang Stomach Heat, which manifests as high fever, excessive sweating, intense thirst, a flushed face, and irritability. This pattern often results from external heat or dietary factors that create excess heat in the stomach.

Another cause could be Heat victorious agitating Blood, characterized by high fever, restlessness, mania, and bleeding symptoms such as vomiting blood or nosebleeds. This pattern is typically due to severe heat that agitates the blood, causing it to move recklessly within the body. Recognizing these patterns is essential for effective treatment in TCM, ensuring that the specific underlying issues are addressed.

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

  • By Syndrome
  • By Organ
  • Liver
  • Stomach
  • Lung
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 High Fever

Common Symptoms: Excessive Sweating Flushed Face Feeling Of Heat Irritability Delirium Nosebleeds Convulsions Stiff Neck

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Bright Yang Stomach Heat High fever, Excessive sweating, Excessive thirst, Flushed face, Feeling of heat, Irritability, Delirium... see more Bai Hu Tang
Heat victorious agitating Blood High fever, Restlessness, Mania, Macules, Vomiting blood, Nosebleeds, Hematochezia, Hematuria... see more Xi Jiao Di Huang Tang
Heat victorious stirring Wind High fever, Loss of consciousness, Limb twitching, Convulsions, Stiff neck, Opisthotonos, Eyeballs turning up, Clenching of teeth... see more Ling Jiao Gou Teng Tang
Lung Heat High fever, Feeling of heat, Thirst, Cough with thin yellow sputum, Shortness of breath, Excessive sweating, Acne... see more Ma Xing Shi Gan Tang | Qing Qi Hua Tan Wan | Pi Pa Qing Fei Yin | Xie Bai San | Huang Lian Jie Du Tang
Liver Wind agitating Internally due to extreme Heat High temperature, High fever, Convulsions, Stiff neck, Hand tremor, Opisthotonos Ling Jiao Gou Teng Tang | Tian Ma Gou Teng Yin | Feng Yin Tang
Wind Cold with Internal Heat Strong fever, 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

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 High Fever

Common Symptoms: Stiff Neck Flushed Face Irritability Delirium Convulsions Opisthotonos Headaches Excessive Sweating

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Bright Yang Stomach Heat High fever, Excessive sweating, Excessive thirst, Flushed face, Feeling of heat, Irritability, Delirium... see more Bai Hu Tang
Heat victorious stirring Wind High fever, Loss of consciousness, Limb twitching, Convulsions, Stiff neck, Opisthotonos, Eyeballs turning up, Clenching of teeth... see more Ling Jiao Gou Teng Tang
Wind-Cold-Damp invading with Qi Deficiency High fever, Fever without perspiration, Headaches, Neck pain, Stiff neck, Painful extremities, Focal distention, Chest distension, Congested nose, Noisy breathing, Coughing... see more Ren Shen Bai Du San
Liver Wind agitating Internally due to extreme Heat High temperature, High fever, Convulsions, Stiff neck, Hand tremor, Opisthotonos Ling Jiao Gou Teng Tang | Tian Ma Gou Teng Yin | Feng Yin Tang
Wind Cold with Internal Heat Strong fever, 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

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 High Fever

Common Symptoms: Flushed Face Irritability Delirium Headaches Excessive Sweating Excessive Thirst Feeling Of Heat Fever Without Perspiration

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Bright Yang Stomach Heat High fever, Excessive sweating, Excessive thirst, Flushed face, Feeling of heat, Irritability, Delirium... see more Bai Hu Tang
Wind-Cold-Damp invading with Qi Deficiency High fever, Fever without perspiration, Headaches, Neck pain, Stiff neck, Painful extremities, Focal distention, Chest distension, Congested nose, Noisy breathing, Coughing... see more Ren Shen Bai Du San
Wind Cold with Internal Heat Strong fever, 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

Mind Disturbance

In TCM "Shen" refers to the mind or spirit, and a Shen disturbance is a pattern of disharmony that affects the mental and emotional state. This concept reflects the TCM belief in the deep interconnectedness of mind and body. Symptoms of Shen disturbance can vary widely but often include anxiety, insomnia, restlessness, confusion, or in severe cases, hallucinations or delirium. These symptoms indicate an imbalance in the body's energies affecting the heart, which in TCM is not only the center of blood circulation but also the seat of the mind and consciousness. The root of Shen disturbance can be traced to various factors, including emotional stress, physical illness, or an imbalance in fundamental substances like Qi, Yin, or Yang.... see more

Mind Disturbance Patterns That Can Lead to High Fever

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Heat victorious agitating Blood High fever, Restlessness, Mania, Macules, Vomiting blood, Nosebleeds, Hematochezia, Hematuria... see more Xi Jiao Di Huang Tang
Detailed description of the cause

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 High Fever

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Wind-Cold-Damp invading with Qi Deficiency High fever, Fever without perspiration, Headaches, Neck pain, Stiff neck, Painful extremities, Focal distention, Chest distension, Congested nose, Noisy breathing, Coughing... see more Ren Shen Bai Du San
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 High Fever

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Wind-Cold-Damp invading with Qi Deficiency High fever, Fever without perspiration, Headaches, Neck pain, Stiff neck, Painful extremities, Focal distention, Chest distension, Congested nose, Noisy breathing, Coughing... see more Ren Shen Bai Du San
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 High Fever

Common Symptoms: Convulsions Stiff Neck Opisthotonos Loss Of Consciousness Limb Twitching Eyeballs Turning Up Clenching Of Teeth Hand Tremor

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Heat victorious stirring Wind High fever, Loss of consciousness, Limb twitching, Convulsions, Stiff neck, Opisthotonos, Eyeballs turning up, Clenching of teeth... see more Ling Jiao Gou Teng Tang
Liver Wind agitating Internally due to extreme Heat High temperature, High fever, Convulsions, Stiff neck, Hand tremor, Opisthotonos Ling Jiao Gou Teng Tang | Tian Ma Gou Teng Yin | Feng Yin Tang
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 High Fever

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Bright Yang Stomach Heat High fever, Excessive sweating, Excessive thirst, Flushed face, Feeling of heat, Irritability, Delirium... see more Bai Hu Tang
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 High Fever

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Lung Heat High fever, Feeling of heat, Thirst, Cough with thin yellow sputum, Shortness of breath, Excessive sweating, Acne... see more Ma Xing Shi Gan Tang | Qing Qi Hua Tan Wan | Pi Pa Qing Fei Yin | Xie Bai San | Huang Lian Jie Du Tang

TCM Herbal Formulas for High Fever

For Bright Yang Stomach Heat, the recommended formula is Bai Hu Tang. This formula includes Gypsum (Shi Gao), known for its potent heat-clearing and fire-purging properties. It alleviates symptoms such as high fever, excessive sweating, and intense thirst, restoring balance within the body.

In cases of Heat victorious stirring Wind, the formula Ling Jiao Gou Teng Tang is advised. Featuring Saiga antelope's horns (Ling Yang Jiao), this formula pacifies internal Wind and stops tremors, addressing symptoms like limb twitching, convulsions, and high fever. By focusing on the specific underlying patterns, these formulas provide a holistic approach to managing high fever in TCM.

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

  • By Cause
  • By Formula Type
  • Formulas that pacify and extinguish internal wind
  • Formulas that clear heat from the organs
  • Formulas that dispel summer-Heat and clear heat
  • Formulas that dispel summer-Heat and augment qi
  • Formulas that clear qi-level heat
  • Formulas that clear nutritive-level heat
  • Formulas that clear heat and transform phlegm
  • Formulas that clear lung-Heat
  • Formulas that clear heat and resolve toxicity
  • External formulas for external disorders
  • Formulas that simultaneously attack and tonify
  • Formulas that dredge and disperse external wind
  • Formulas that release the exterior and clear the interior

All Formulas Recommended for High Fever Caused by Heat

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Ling Jiao Gou Teng Tang Heat victorious stirring Wind, Liver Wind agitating Internally due to extreme Heat... see more
Bai Hu Tang Bright Yang Stomach Heat
Xi Jiao Di Huang Tang Heat victorious agitating Blood
Ma Xing Shi Gan Tang Lung Heat
Qing Qi Hua Tan Wan Lung Heat
Pi Pa Qing Fei Yin Lung Heat
Xie Bai San Lung Heat
Huang Lian Jie Du Tang Lung Heat
Tian Ma Gou Teng Yin Liver Wind agitating Internally due to extreme Heat
Feng Yin Tang Liver Wind agitating Internally due to extreme Heat
Shi Gao Tang Wind Cold with Internal Heat

All Formulas Recommended for High Fever Caused by Wind

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Ling Jiao Gou Teng Tang Heat victorious stirring Wind, Liver Wind agitating Internally due to extreme Heat... see more
Bai Hu Tang Bright Yang Stomach Heat
Ren Shen Bai Du San Wind-Cold-Damp invading with Qi Deficiency
Tian Ma Gou Teng Yin Liver Wind agitating Internally due to extreme Heat
Feng Yin Tang Liver Wind agitating Internally due to extreme Heat
Shi Gao Tang Wind Cold with Internal Heat

All Formulas Recommended for High Fever Caused by Cold

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Bai Hu Tang Bright Yang Stomach Heat
Ren Shen Bai Du San Wind-Cold-Damp invading with Qi Deficiency
Shi Gao Tang Wind Cold with Internal Heat

All "formulas that pacify and extinguish internal wind" recommended for high fever

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Ling Jiao Gou Teng Tang Heat victorious stirring Wind, Liver Wind agitating Internally due to extreme Heat... see more
Tian Ma Gou Teng Yin Liver Wind agitating Internally due to extreme Heat

All "formulas that clear heat from the organs" recommended for high fever

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Ma Xing Shi Gan Tang Lung Heat
Xie Bai San Lung Heat

Acupoints for High Fever

In TCM, specific acupoints are used to help reduce high fever. One such acupoint is Quchi LI-11, located at the lateral end of the cubital crease. Stimulating Quchi LI-11 helps clear Heat, cool the Blood, resolve Dampness, and remove obstructions from the channel. This acupoint is particularly effective for treating conditions involving high fever, inflammation, and skin disorders.

Another useful point is Dazhui DU-14, found below the spinous process of the seventh cervical vertebra. It is known for its ability to clear Heat and treat febrile diseases, helping to lower body temperature and alleviate fever symptoms. By targeting these acupoints, TCM practitioners can provide relief from high fever and promote overall health.

See more details below about Quchi LI-11, an acupoint used to address high fever.

  • By Meridian
  • Large Intestine Channel
Quchi LI-11

Quchi LI-11

When the elbow is flexed, Quchi LI-11 is in the depression at the lateral end of the cubital crease, midway between Chize LU-5 and the lateral epicondyle of the humerus.