The standard method for diagnosing active lymphatic filariasis is through microscopic examination, where the identification of microfilariae in a blood smear is the key diagnostic feature. These microscopic larvae, which cause lymphatic filariasis, are typically present in the blood at night. Consequently, blood samples are often collected during nighttime to align with the peak appearance of microfilariae. However, while nighttime collection is preferred for optimal detection, it is not strictly mandatory.