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bring heat to the reproductive system or kidneys. Fever-managing remedies, now called "diaphoretics" for
their effect of increasing perspiration, were also considered heating. The decision was often practical: if a
headache or arthritic joint was relieved by a hot pack, this guided the treatment. Extreme heating, such as
"counter-irritation" with cayenne or mustard plasters, was sometimes applied topically with dramatic results.

In modern terms, "heat" is analogous to "circulation." The rationale is that it improves tissue perfusion,
oxygenation, and the removal of metabolites. Heating agents stimulate increased thermogenesis and
circulatory activity rather than heating the body directly. This process requires the body to have energy
reserves; stimulating a person weakened by chronic illness in this way could be detrimental.

Cooling: stimulating digestion

Cooling, in traditional terms, meant reducing vitality; the ultimate cold was death. This principle was applied
to conditions like hyperpyrexia (high fever), inflammatory diseases, allergic hypersensitivity, nervous
agitation, and pain. The corresponding treatments—febrifuges, anti-inflammatories, anti-allergic remedies,
sedatives, and analgesics—would all be classified as cooling. Even some eliminatory treatments, like laxatives
and cholagogues, were seen as cooling.

"Bitters" are a unique sub-class. Used universally as appetite stimulants and digestives, they were the first-
line treatment for digestive issues, especially those associated with heat and hepatobiliary disorders (bitters
are common choleretics). Bitters seemed to "switch on" digestive defenses while also reducing fever. Unlike
other cooling agents that might suppress vital functions, bitters appeared to transcend this, converting "heat"
into nourishment.

Modern technology has produced powerful analgesics, sedatives, and anti-inflammatory drugs (though many
are still derived from natural sources). Phytotherapy may offer two advantages: first, by providing a gentler,
more sustained alternative, and second, by using cooling digestives (bitters) to transform a "hot" condition
constructively. A phytotherapist might be sensitive to the risks of excessive cooling, especially when vital
reserves are low. Bitters and other cooling strategies (like cold packs) would be considered when a patient,
regardless of diagnosis, favors cool applications, is thirsty, or has a reddened complexion or a dry, red, or
coated tongue.

Tonification: supporting nourishment and repair

The term "tonics" has been poorly defined. In this context, it refers to remedies with a supportive reputation.
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