Peripheral Neuropathy - Damp-Heat Bi Pattern

TCM differentiation and treatment for peripheral

Peripheral Neuropathy · Damp-Heat Bi Pattern

Updated: June 23, 2026

Reviewed by: Dr. Li Wei, DACM

Reading Time: 7 min

Body Area: Whole Body

Pattern Overview

Damp-Heat Bi is an inflammatory pattern in peripheral neuropathy,

characterized by **inflammatory neuropathy, burning pain, swelling, and

redness. The core pathogenesis is accumulation of Damp-Heat in the

peripheral nerves**, causing inflammation, edema, and severe burning

pain.

Key Symptoms and Differentiation Points

Differentiation Dimension Manifestations
Primary Symptoms

feet |

Associated Symptoms

sensation in the mouth |

Tongue and Pulse

and rapid pulse |

Pathogenesis Damp-Heat accumulating in the peripheral nerves
Etiology

infection |

Acupuncture Point Prescription

Point Location Function
SP9 Yinlingquan Below the medial condyle of the tibia

Transforms Dampness and drains Heat |

LI11 Quchi Lateral end of the elbow crease

Large Intestine meridian; clears Heat |

GB34 Yanglingquan Depression below the head of the fibula

Relaxes tendons and reduces pain |

Ashi points Tender spots in the affected areas

of Damp-Heat |

Clinical Recommendation: Filiform needle, reducing method; may

combine with pricking and cupping at Ashi points to drain Damp-Heat.

Herbal Formula

Base Formula: Si Miao Wan (四妙丸)

Composition:

Atractylodes (Cang Zhu), Phellodendron (Huang Bai), Achyranthes (Niu

Xi), Coix Seed (Yi Yi Ren)

Action: Clears Damp-Heat, reduces inflammation, promotes diuresis,

and relieves pain.

Modifications

Associated Symptoms Additions/Subtractions
Severe burning pain

detoxify |

Swelling Add Ze Xie, Che Qian Zi to promote diuresis
Fever Add Shi Gao, Zhi Mu to clear Heat and generate fluids

Western Mechanism Reference

Inflammatory neuropathy with elevated inflammatory cytokines, immune

dysregulation, and nerve root inflammation. Damp-Heat Bi corresponds to

inflammatory peripheral neuropathy, where immune-mediated inflammation

and elevated inflammatory cytokines contribute to nerve damage and pain.

References

1. Textbook Standard.

2. WHO. (2023). Peripheral neuropathy fact sheet. World Health

Organization.

Explore More

Personalized herbal protocols and acupressure tools for nerve pain

relief.

research papers and clinical case studies on TCM nerve health.

Last reviewed: June 2026 | Lead author: Dr. Li Wei, DACM | Content updated: Monthly

Disclaimer: This guide is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult a licensed healthcare provider before starting any treatment.