Do you often feel overheated, irritable, or restless—even when others around you seem fine?
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), this may be described as a Yang-Excess constitution, a state where too much internal heat accumulates in the body.

A Yang-Excess constitution refers to a state in which excess heat builds up within the body. This internal heat can make a person more prone to irritability, inflammation, or symptoms such as feeling hot and restless.

Yang-Excess is often confused with Yin Deficiency, since both can present with heat-related symptoms. 
However, the important difference is that in Yang-Excess, the body still retains enough moisture and fluids, whereas Yin Deficiency is characterized by dryness and lack of internal nourishment.

Common signs associated with Yang-Excess in TCM

• Irritability or short temper
• Acne or skin eruptions
• Red or bloodshot eyes
• Dry mouth, strong thirst (often for cold drinks)
• Excessive sweating
• Loud or forceful voice
• Foul-smelling stools or constipation
• Yellow, concentrated urine

Additional signs sometimes linked to menstruation:

• Irregular menstrual cycles

Note: These signs are based on Traditional Chinese Medicine and may also be present in other health conditions. Please look after yourself and check with your doctor or healthcare provider if you have any concerns.

Causes of  Yang-Excess in TCM

• Mental or emotional stress
• Frequent alcohol consumption
• High-calorie, fried, or greasy foods
• Overwork and lack of rest

Daily Tips for Yang-Excess in TCM

• Choose cooling and Qi flowing foods.
• Drink enough water and enjoy herbal teas that help clear heat (e.g., green or mint tea).
• Limit alcohol, fried, greasy, and spicy foods, which fuel excess heat.
• Manage stress through calming practices such as deep breathing, meditation, or exercise.
• Get enough sleep to allow your body to recover and reduce internal heat.
• Spend time in nature or cool environments to balance heat and restlessness.

Cooling & Balancing Foods for Yang-Excess Type 

Grains – Job’s tears (Hatomugi), Wheat, Barley, Millet
Meat & Seafood – Clams, Crab, Seaweed, Duck meat
Vegetables & Fruits – Bitter melon, Daikon radish, Chrysanthemum flowers, Celery, Chinese cabbage, Cucumber, Zucchini, Tomato, Mung beans, Strawberry, Banana, Watermelon, Apple, Kiwi, Mango, Melon
Others – Tofu, Konjac (Konnyaku), Adzuki beans, Dokudami (Houttuynia cordata), Mint

By adjusting your daily habits and diet, you can help your body release excess heat and return to balance naturally.