Is a hard lump under the chin caused by “internal heat”?

In daily life, it is quite common for some people to develop hard lumps under the chin. Many wonder whether this is caused by “excess internal heat” (a traditional Chinese medicine concept). So, is a hard lump under the chin due to “excess internal heat”?

Can Yu Ping Feng Granules Cause “Excess Internal Heat”?

Hard lumps under the chin are commonly attributed to folliculitis—typically resulting from skin surface infection with bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, or Escherichia coli. Clinically, this manifests as localized redness, swelling, warmth, and tenderness. According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) theory, this condition arises from upward migration of “fire-toxin” to the face, leading to external manifestation of toxicity.

Preventive measures against “excess internal heat”: • Maintain a regular lifestyle—“Excess internal heat” is often associated with chronic sleep deprivation, irregular作息 (daily routines), and decreased immune function. Restoring a normal sleep-wake schedule and returning daily life to a balanced rhythm can help significantly. • Consume more heat-clearing foods—many seasonal wild vegetables possess properties that clear heat, detoxify, and reduce inflammation. Examples include Chinese bluestem (Malan tou), shepherd’s purse (Ji cai), and dandelion (Pu gong ying). During seasons prone to “excess internal heat,” incorporating these foods into your diet is advisable. • Drink heat-clearing herbal teas—goji berries (Lycium barbarum) are gentle and nourish the liver without inducing “heat”; chrysanthemum, honeysuckle, American ginseng, and Dendrobium officinale all support liver health and improve vision, though each targets a different type of “heat.” • Eat more fruits—pear is widely recognized for its heat-clearing properties; other beneficial fruits for relieving springtime dryness and heat include tomato and banana.

We hope this article has been helpful to you!