The tongue color is darker than the normal light red, indicating a heat pattern. Deep red with a yellow coating indicates excess heat, while a fresh and tender red color suggests deficient heat. A tender red tongue without coating indicates yin deficiency with effulgent fire. A bright red tongue with prickles suggests heat in the nutrient aspect; a red and dry tongue indicates damage to stomach fluid. A red tongue tip may be seen in up-flaming of heart fire; redness on the sides of the tongue is often associated with heat in the liver and gallbladder.