Afternoon Feveraccording to TCM

What is afternoon fever?

Afternoon fever, also known as a fever peaking in the afternoon, is a condition characterized by a rise in body temperature later in the day. This type of fever often manifests as a low-grade fever but can escalate in intensity, typically peaking during the late afternoon or early evening. Such fevers can be associated with a variety of underlying conditions, including infections, chronic diseases, or even environmental factors. The body’s natural circadian rhythm can influence these temperature fluctuations, making the fever more noticeable as the day progresses.

How does TCM view afternoon fever?

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) views afternoon fever as a symptom resulting from various patterns of disharmony within the body. Unlike Western medicine, which may focus on the infection or external cause, TCM emphasizes internal imbalances that predispose an individual to such symptoms. Identifying the correct pattern of disharmony is crucial in TCM for effective treatment. These patterns can include deficiencies, excesses, or invasions of pathogenic factors, each requiring a tailored therapeutic approach.

Root Causes of Afternoon Fever in TCM

One common TCM pattern associated with afternoon fever is Liver Yin Deficiency. This pattern is marked by symptoms such as dizziness, limb numbness, tingling of limbs, insomnia, blurry vision, eye floaters, dry eyes, and night blindness. The Deficiency of Yin leads to a relative excess of Yang, manifesting as a fever that peaks in the afternoon.

Another notable pattern is Bright Yang Fire in the Stomach and Intestines. This pattern includes symptoms like high fever worsening in the afternoon, excessive sweating, abdominal fullness and pain, constipation, dry stools, and thirst. This condition arises from an accumulation of Heat in the Stomach and Intestines, leading to pronounced fever and other gastrointestinal symptoms.

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

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 Afternoon Fever

Pattern Name	Relevant Symptoms	Relevant Formulas
Liver Yin Deficiency	Afternoon fever, Dizziness, Limb numbness, Tingling of limbs, Insomnia, Blurry vision, Eye floaters, Dry eyes, Night blindness, Scanty menstruation, Amenorrhea, Dull pale complexion, Flushed cheekbones, Muscle weakness, Muscle cramps, Withered and brittle nails, Dry hair, Skin dryness, Depression, Lack of direction, Night sweats, Vivid dreaming, Hot palms and soles, Preference for sipping... see more	Qi Ju Di Huang Wan | Bu Gan Tang | Suan Zao Ren Tang | Yi Guan Jian

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 Afternoon Fever

Pattern Name	Relevant Symptoms	Relevant Formulas
Bright Yang Fire in Stomach and Intestines	High fever that is worse in the afternoon, Afternoon fever, Excessive sweating, Sweating on limbs, Abdominal fullness, Abdominal pain, Constipation, Dry stools, Thirst, Dark urine, Anal burning, Irritability, Delirium... see more	Tiao Wei Cheng Qi Tang | Xiao Cheng Qi 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 Afternoon Fever

Pattern Name	Relevant Symptoms	Relevant Formulas
Bright Yang Fire in Stomach and Intestines	High fever that is worse in the afternoon, Afternoon fever, Excessive sweating, Sweating on limbs, Abdominal fullness, Abdominal pain, Constipation, Dry stools, Thirst, Dark urine, Anal burning, Irritability, Delirium... see more	Tiao Wei Cheng Qi Tang | Xiao Cheng Qi Tang

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 Afternoon Fever

Pattern Name	Relevant Symptoms	Relevant Formulas
Bright Yang Fire in Stomach and Intestines	High fever that is worse in the afternoon, Afternoon fever, Excessive sweating, Sweating on limbs, Abdominal fullness, Abdominal pain, Constipation, Dry stools, Thirst, Dark urine, Anal burning, Irritability, Delirium... see more	Tiao Wei Cheng Qi Tang | Xiao Cheng Qi 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 Afternoon Fever

Pattern Name	Relevant Symptoms	Relevant Formulas
Liver Yin Deficiency	Afternoon fever, Dizziness, Limb numbness, Tingling of limbs, Insomnia, Blurry vision, Eye floaters, Dry eyes, Night blindness, Scanty menstruation, Amenorrhea, Dull pale complexion, Flushed cheekbones, Muscle weakness, Muscle cramps, Withered and brittle nails, Dry hair, Skin dryness, Depression, Lack of direction, Night sweats, Vivid dreaming, Hot palms and soles, Preference for sipping... see more	Qi Ju Di Huang Wan | Bu Gan Tang | Suan Zao Ren Tang | Yi Guan Jian

Small Intestine

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

Small Intestine Patterns That Can Lead to Afternoon Fever

Pattern Name	Relevant Symptoms	Relevant Formulas
Bright Yang Fire in Stomach and Intestines	High fever that is worse in the afternoon, Afternoon fever, Excessive sweating, Sweating on limbs, Abdominal fullness, Abdominal pain, Constipation, Dry stools, Thirst, Dark urine, Anal burning, Irritability, Delirium... see more	Tiao Wei Cheng Qi Tang | Xiao Cheng Qi Tang

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 Afternoon Fever

Pattern Name	Relevant Symptoms	Relevant Formulas
Bright Yang Fire in Stomach and Intestines	High fever that is worse in the afternoon, Afternoon fever, Excessive sweating, Sweating on limbs, Abdominal fullness, Abdominal pain, Constipation, Dry stools, Thirst, Dark urine, Anal burning, Irritability, Delirium... see more	Tiao Wei Cheng Qi Tang | Xiao Cheng Qi Tang

TCM Herbal Formulas for Afternoon Fever

For treating afternoon fever due to Liver Yin Deficiency, Qi Ju Di Huang Wan is often recommended. This formula nourishes Yin and blood, with Prepared Rehmannia (Shu Di huang) as a key herb. Another effective formula is Bu Gan Tang, which also focuses on tonifying blood and addressing Yin Deficiency.

In cases of Bright Yang Fire in the Stomach and Intestines, Tiao Wei Cheng Qi Tang is commonly used. This formula includes Rhubarb (Da Huang) as a key herb, which helps to purge Heat accumulation. Xiao Cheng Qi Tang is another formula used for similar patterns, targeting Heat accumulation and promoting bowel movements to alleviate the fever and associated symptoms.

By understanding these patterns and applying the appropriate formulas, TCM offers a holistic approach to managing afternoon fever, addressing both the symptoms and the underlying disharmony.

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

Top Formula for Yin Deficiency:
Qi Ju Di Huang Wan

Suitable for Yin Deficiency patterns that may cause afternoon fever, such as Liver Yin Deficiency

Learn more

All Formulas Recommended for Afternoon Fever Caused by Yin Deficiency

Formula	Patterns Suitable For
Qi Ju Di Huang Wan	Liver Yin Deficiency
Bu Gan Tang	Liver Yin Deficiency
Suan Zao Ren Tang	Liver Yin Deficiency
Yi Guan Jian	Liver Yin Deficiency

Top Formula for Cold:
Tiao Wei Cheng Qi Tang

Suitable for Cold patterns that may cause afternoon fever, such as Bright Yang Fire in Stomach and Intestines

Learn more

All Formulas Recommended for Afternoon Fever Caused by Cold

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

Top Formula for Heat:
Tiao Wei Cheng Qi Tang

Suitable for Heat patterns that may cause afternoon fever, such as Bright Yang Fire in Stomach and Intestines

Learn more

All Formulas Recommended for Afternoon Fever Caused by Heat

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

Top Formula for Wind:
Tiao Wei Cheng Qi Tang

Suitable for Wind patterns that may cause afternoon fever, such as Bright Yang Fire in Stomach and Intestines

Learn more

All Formulas Recommended for Afternoon Fever Caused by Wind

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

TCM Herbs for Afternoon Fever

Explore below some TCM herbs used to address afternoon fever, organized by herb category.