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Ma Huang works as a diaphoretic to release an exterior wind-cold pattern by inducing sweating. The key point is that its job is done once diaphoresis has begun—the body has opened the exterior and the invading pattern is being addressed. Stopping after sweating is induced prevents over-sweating and fluid/qi depletion, which can lead to weakness, dizziness, or other adverse effects.

Other signals don’t fit the herb’s action. Waiting until fever breaks isn’t aligned with Ma Huang’s function, and using it beyond the point of diaphoresis increases risk without added benefit. Urination or a fixed time like three days isn’t the criterion for cessation with this herb.