Invisible Heat Waiting for a Trigger
Latent Heat (Fu Re) is a fascinating concept in TCM. It describes a pathogen (often heat) that has entered the body but doesn’t immediately cause symptoms. Instead, it lurks deep within the body, waiting for the right moment to erupt.
The Origin of Latent Heat
This pattern often arises from an infection that hasn’t been fully resolved (for example, by suppressing a fever too early with medication without clearing the pathogen) or from chronic emotional stress that simmers within. Excessive consumption of rich, hot foods can also cause heat to build up, which settles in the deeper layers.
The Constitution of Latent Heat
People with Latent Heat often appear healthy, but have subtle signs:
A red tip of the tongue or red spots on the tongue.
A pulse that is deep but quick and powerful.
Getting irritated quickly or sleeping restlessly.
Tendency to have recurring infections (such as sore throat, acne or cold sores) that always return in the same place.
The Triggers
The “volcano” erupts when a trigger occurs. This can be:
Novel External Pathogen:
A simple cold (Wind-Cold) closes the pores. The internal heat can no longer escape and “explodes” outward. The result: a mild cold that immediately turns into a high fever, a severe sore throat, and swollen glands.
Seasonal change:
The transition to spring (Yang rising) can activate latent heat.
Emotional Stress or Overwork:
This weakens the Yin (cooling fluid), making it impossible to control the latent heat.
Conclusion
Recognizing Latent Heat is preventative medicine. It explains why some people become seriously ill immediately after a virus. Treatment doesn’t focus on the trigger, but on gently “ventilating” and clearing the old, hidden heat.