What is yellow bile classified as in the four humors?

Yellow bile is classified as hot and dry in the context of the four humors, a concept that originated in ancient Greek medicine. This classification correlates yellow bile with the body’s temperaments and characteristics, where it is thought to represent a choleric disposition. Individuals characterized by yellow bile are believed to be ambitious, leader-like, and often have a fiery temperament, which aligns with the hot quality. The dry aspect contributes to their decisive and sometimes abrasive nature.

In contrast, the other classifications—cold and wet, hot and wet, and cold and dry—describe different humors (black bile, phlegm, and blood, respectively) and their corresponding temperaments. Each humor represents distinct physical and emotional characteristics, allowing for a holistic understanding of personality and health in ancient medical practices. The specific traits associated with yellow bile have influenced historical perspectives on personality and health conditions, reinforcing its classification.