tongue problems

 Tongue Problems: Treatment from a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Perspective

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the tongue is one of the most important diagnostic tools. Changes in the appearance of the tongue can provide valuable information about the state of health, energy (Qi), blood, moisture, heat, and the functioning of internal organs. Problems with the tongue, such as swelling, dryness, color changes (e.g. red, pale, purple), or the presence of a coating, can indicate various disorders in the body.

What does the tongue say in TCM?

Tongue color : Depending on the color, we can identify different problems:

Red tongue – indicates excess heat, which may result from disorders of the heart, liver or lungs.

White tongue – indicates cold or lack of energy in the body.

Pale tongue – suggests blood or Qi deficiency.

Purple tongue – may indicate blood congestion or circulatory problems.

Tongue Coating : A thin coating may indicate a normal condition, but a thick or oily coating may indicate excess moisture or mucus in the body, which may be related to problems with digestion or the functioning of organs such as the spleen and stomach.

Tongue shape : A swollen tongue with visible teeth marks may indicate a weakened spleen, while a dry and cracked tongue may be a sign of lack of fluids and dehydration.

Treating Tongue Problems in Traditional Chinese Medicine

1. Herbs

In TCM, treatment for tongue problems often includes the use of appropriate herbs to help restore energy balance in the body. Herbs are used to remove excess heat, dampness, or cooling, depending on the diagnosis.

Examples of herbs include:

Rehmannia (Shu Di Huang) – used to nourish the blood and Yin, especially for a pale, dry or cracked tongue.

Lian Qiao – helpful in clearing heat and toxins from the body.

Cang Zhu – used for excess moisture and mucus.

Ginseng – supports Qi energy and supports the digestive system.

2. Acupressure

Acupressure, or pressure on specific points on the body, can be used as a method to aid in the treatment of tongue problems. It includes:

Point ST36 (Zusanli) – improves the functioning of the spleen and stomach, which helps digestion and improves the quality of the tongue.

LI4 (Hegu) point – supports the overall balance of Qi energy in the body.

Ren12 (Zhongwan) point – used for stomach problems, supports digestion and nourishment of the body.

3. Qi Gong

Qi Gong is an ancient meditation and energy practice that can help restore energy balance. Regularly practicing Qi Gong exercises helps improve the flow of Qi in the body, which can have a beneficial effect on the health of the tongue. Breathing exercises, focusing on the meridians, and body movements support the processes of purification and harmonization of energy.

Recipe for herbal tea to support tongue health

Ingredients :

5g Rehmannia root (Shu Di Huang)

5g Cang Zhu

5 g Ginseng (ginseng root)

5g Lian Qiao

1 liter of water

Preparation :

In a large pot, boil 1 liter of water.

Add herbs to water and simmer for 20-30 minutes.

After cooking, strain the herbs and drink the infusion 1-2 times a day for 7 days.

This tea helps nourish Yin and Qi, clear heat, and supports digestive health. It can be especially helpful for a dry tongue, red spots, or a coating that indicates the presence of excess heat in the body.

Liu Wei Di Huang Wan – Famous Chinese Herbs for Health

Liu Wei Di Huang Wan is a popular herbal formula in Traditional Chinese Medicine, used for centuries to treat Yin deficiencies, especially in cases of kidney and liver problems. It is a blend of six herbs:

Rehmannia (Shu Di Huang) – nourishes the kidney yin.

Cornus (Shan Zhu Yu) – strengthens kidney and liver functions.

Alisma (Ze Xie) – removes excess water and moisture.

Poria (Fu Ling) – supports the spleen and improves digestion.

Moutan (Mu Dan Pi) – removes blood stagnation, especially in the liver.

Dioscorea (Shan Yao) – strengthens Qi and nourishes the spleen.

This formula is particularly effective in treating symptoms related to excessive dryness, lack of energy, joint pain, dizziness, and sleep problems. It is also used to treat skin problems such as eczema and dryness, which may reflect kidney problems in TCM.

Liu Wei Di Huang Wan helps restore balance in the body by nourishing Yin and harmonizing the functions of the kidneys and liver. Regular use of this formula can help improve overall health, including the health of the mouth and tongue, restoring their natural moisture and color.

Summary

Tongue problems in Traditional Chinese Medicine are treated as clues to a deeper analysis of the health of the entire body. Proper diagnosis allows the use of herbs, acupressure and Qi Gong to restore energy balance. With these techniques, tongue problems can be effectively treated and the overall health condition improved.

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