Post-Herpetic Neuralgia - Liver Channel Heat Pattern

TCM differentiation and treatment for post-herpetic

Post-Herpetic Neuralgia · Liver Channel Heat Pattern

Updated: June 23, 2026

Reviewed by: Dr. Li Wei, DACM

Reading Time: 7 min

Body Area: Whole Body

Pattern Overview

Liver Channel Heat is a common pattern in post-herpetic neuralgia,

characterized by **neuropathic burning pain, redness, irritability, and

bitter taste. The core pathogenesis is accumulation of Liver Channel

Heat following herpes zoster infection**, causing residual heat in the

nerves, burning pain, and hyperalgesia.

Key Symptoms and Differentiation Points

Differentiation Dimension Manifestations
Primary Symptoms

redness, heat sensation |

Associated Symptoms

headache, tinnitus |

Tongue and Pulse

pulse |

Pathogenesis

nerves |

Etiology

neuroinflammation |

Acupuncture Point Prescription

Point Location Function
LR3 Taichong

metatarsals | Source point of Liver meridian; clears Liver Heat |

LR2 Xingjian

metatarsals, proximal to the web margin | Spring point of Liver

meridian; drains Liver Fire |

LI11 Quchi Lateral end of the elbow crease

Large Intestine meridian; clears Heat and detoxifies |

Ashi points Tender spots in the affected dermatome

clearing of Heat and pain relief |

Clinical Recommendation: Filiform needle, reducing method; may

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

Herbal Formula

Base Formula: Long Dan Xie Gan Tang (龙胆泻肝汤)

Composition:

Gentian Root (Long Dan Cao), Scutellaria (Huang Qin), Gardenia (Zhi Zi),

Bupleurum (Chai Hu), Alisma (Ze Xie), Akebia (Mu Tong), Angelica (Dang

Gui), Rehmannia (Sheng Di), Plantago (Che Qian Zi), Licorice (Gan Cao)

Action: Clears Liver Channel Heat, drains Fire, and detoxifies.

Modifications

Associated Symptoms Additions/Subtractions
Severe burning pain

detoxify |

Irritability Add Zhi Zi, Dan Pi to clear Heat and calm the spirit
Headache

eyes |

Western Mechanism Reference

Neuropathic burning pain with activation of TRPV1 channels, neurogenic

inflammation, and elevated inflammatory cytokines. Liver Channel Heat

corresponds to post-herpetic neuralgia with prominent burning pain and

neurogenic inflammation, where residual viral-induced inflammation and

TRPV1 sensitization contribute to hyperalgesia.

References

1. Textbook Standard.

2. WHO. (2023). Post-herpetic neuralgia fact sheet. World Health

Organization.

Explore More

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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.