Bad Breath in Traditional Chinese Medicine
Understanding different bad breath patterns according to TCM theory
Educational content • Consult qualified practitioners for medical advice
Condition Categories
Condition Categories
Bad breath is a condition characterized by an unpleasant odor emanating from the mouth. This condition can be temporary, resulting from certain foods, poor oral hygiene, or dry mouth, but when persistent, it often signals underlying dental or medical issues.
Bad breath can significantly impact social interactions and a person’s confidence. Understanding its causes is crucial for effective treatment and prevention. Addressing Bad breath requires a thorough examination to identify and treat its root cause, be it dental decay, gum disease, or other medical conditions.
From the perspective of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), bad breath is viewed as a manifestation of underlying imbalances within the body's internal systems. TCM practitioners believe that bad breath is often a symptom of disharmony related to organ function, Qi (vital energy), and the balance of Yin and Yang.
Unlike Western medicine, which primarily focuses on the symptom itself and local factors contributing to bad breath, TCM seeks to identify and correct the internal disharmonies, considering emotional, physiological, and environmental factors. This holistic approach emphasizes the need for a personalized diagnosis to effectively address Bad breath.
TCM Patterns for Bad Breath
Each pattern represents a distinct underlying imbalance that can cause bad breath
Large Intestine Dryness
Diagnostic signs
Fine (Xi)
Dry tongue with pale or red color and rootless coating
Accompanying symptoms you may experience
Recommended herbal formulas
Dryness in Large Intestine
Diagnostic signs
Fine (Xi)
Accompanying symptoms you may experience
Recommended herbal formulas
Phlegm
Diagnostic signs
Slippery (Hua), Wiry (Xian)
swollen tongue with sticky coating
Accompanying symptoms you may experience
Recommended herbal formulas
Stomach Heat or Fire
Diagnostic signs
Rapid (Shu), Slippery (Hua), Full (Shi)
Red in the center with a dry thick yellow or dark yellow coating
Accompanying symptoms you may experience
Recommended herbal formulas
Herbal Formulas for Bad Breath
Traditional Chinese Medicine formulas used to address bad breath