Dry Mouth in Traditional Chinese Medicine
Understanding different dry mouth patterns according to TCM theory
Educational content • Consult qualified practitioners for medical advice
Condition Categories
Condition Categories
Dry mouth, also known as xerostomia, refers to a condition where the salivary glands in the mouth don't make enough saliva to keep the mouth wet. Saliva is pivotal for digestion, helps prevent tooth decay, and acts as a cleanser for the mouth, which makes the lack of it more than a minor inconvenience. Symptoms can include a sticky, dry feeling in the mouth, frequent thirst, sores in the mouth, and a dry, red, raw tongue.
From the Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) perspective, dry mouth isn't just a symptom—it's a signal of underlying disharmony within the body. TCM posits that health is a state of balance among internal and external influences.
When disharmony occurs—whether from external factors like climate or internal issues like emotional stress—it can affect the body's Qi, or vital energy. Identifying the specific pattern of imbalance causing dry mouth is crucial to restoring harmony and health.
TCM Patterns for Dry Mouth
Yin Deficiency
Depletion of cooling, moistening fluids causing dryness, false heat rising, and restless agitation throughout the body
Causes: Dry mouth
Yin Deficiency represents a fundamental pattern in Traditional Chinese Medicine where the body's yin fluids - blood, essence, and body fluids - become depleted, losing their ability to cool, moisten, and anchor the yang energy, resulting in relative hyperactivity of yang and internal heat manifestations.
Heart Yin Deficiency
Dry mouth
Along with: Night sweats, Feeling of uneasiness, Feeling of heat, Heat sensation in palms, Hysteria, Neurasthenia
Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency
Dry mouth
Along with: Dizziness, Tinnitus, Hearing loss, Lower back pain, Vertical headaches, Occipital headache, Insomnia, Limb numbness, Tingling of limbs, Dry eyes, Blurry vision, Dry throat, Dry hair, Skin dryness, Withered and brittle nails, Vaginal dryness, Night sweats, Dry stools, Nocturnal emission, Scanty menstruation, Amenorrhea, Late menstruation, Infertility, Melasma
Empty-Heat or Fire caused by Yin Deficiency
Dry mouth
Along with: Afternoon heat sensation, Preference for sipping, Dry mouth and throat at night, Night sweats, Cardiac burning sensation, Hot palms and soles, Dry stools, Scanty and dark urine, Flushed cheekbones
Kidney and Lung Yin Deficiency
Dry mouth
Along with: Dizziness, Tinnitus, Night dry coughing, Dry throat, Emaciation, Exertional dyspnea, Lower back pain, Night sweats, Hearing loss, Oliguria
Lung Yin Deficiency
Dry mouth
Along with: Hoarse voice, Itchy throat, Dislike of speaking, Thin chest
Kidney Yin Deficiency
Dry mouth
Along with: Excessive sweating, Back pain, Hearing loss, Dry mouth and throat at night, Lower back pain, Constipation, Scanty and dark urine, Infertility, Premature ejaculation, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Depression, Anxiety, Heat sensation in palms, Evening heat sensation, Flushed cheekbones, Menopausal hot flashes, Preference for sipping, Evening anxiety
Stomach and Spleen Yin Deficiency
Dry mouth
Along with: Loss of appetite, Preference for sipping, Dry stools, Dry lips, Nausea, Generalized fatigue, Upper abdominal discomfort, Loss of taste
Stomach Yin Deficiency
Dry mouth
Along with: Loss of appetite, Preference for sipping, Slight abdominal distension after eating
Deficiency of the Liver and Kidney Yin
Dry mouth
Along with: Sore knees, Lower back pain, Knee weakness, Dry tongue, Dizziness, Blurry vision, Insomnia, Vivid dreaming, Hair graying, Hair loss
Disharmony between Heart and Kidneys
Dry mouth
Along with: Dizziness, Tinnitus, Insomnia, Palpitations, Poor memory, Lower back pain, Knee pain, Night sweats, Constipation, Menopausal hot flashes
Stomach Deficiency
Dry mouth
Along with: Nausea or vomiting, Generalized fatigue, Chills, Loss of appetite, Depression, Morning sickness
Heat
Intense, ascending pathogenic force that consumes body fluids, disturbs the mind, and accelerates all physiological processes
Causes: Dry mouth
Heat is a major pathogenic factor in Traditional Chinese Medicine that can arise from external invasion or internal generation. Heat has the characteristics of burning intensity, rising upward, consuming qi and fluids, and generating wind and disturbing blood. In TCM philosophy, normal physiological warmth is called "minor fire" (少火) which maintains life functions, while pathological heat is "major fire" (壮火) which damages the body.
Dry-Heat or Dry-Fire
Dry mouth
Along with: Fever, Thirst, Excessive sweating, Sore throat, Skin dryness, Dry nose, Dry throat, Dry cough, Aversion to cold
Empty-Heat or Fire caused by Yin Deficiency
Dry mouth
Along with: Afternoon heat sensation, Preference for sipping, Dry mouth and throat at night, Night sweats, Cardiac burning sensation, Hot palms and soles, Dry stools, Scanty and dark urine, Flushed cheekbones
Heat in the Blood
Dry mouth
Along with: Feeling of heat, Red skin eruptions, Thirst, Frequent bleeding, Bloody sputum, Hematochezia, Hematuria, Vomiting blood, Cough of blood, Nosebleeds, Excessive menstruation
Damp-Heat
Dry mouth
Along with: Fever, Neck gland swelling, Headaches, Tight feeling in chest and stomach, Sticky taste in the mouth, Absence of thirst, Feeling of heat, Feeling of heaviness, Bitter taste in the mouth, Acne
Phlegm-Heat
Dry mouth
Along with: Upper abdominal oppression, Mucous in feces, Depression
Stomach Heat or Fire
Dry mouth
Along with: Upper abdominal burning pain, Excessive thirst, Craving for cold beverages, Restlessness, Dry stools, Mouth ulcers, Acid reflux, Nausea, Vomiting after eating, Excessive hunger, Bad breath, Feeling of heat, Acne
Damp-Heat in the Lower Burner
Dry mouth
Along with: Scanty and yellow urine, Lower back pain, Weakness of lower extremities, Red and swollen feet, Swollen knee, Thick greasy vaginal secretions, Ulcers on the lower limbs, Scanty and dark urine, Painful urination, Dry throat
Stomach Fire or Stomach Heat
Dry mouth
Along with: Toothache, Headaches, Loose teeth, Bleeding gums, Irritability, Thirst, Stomatitis, Periodontitis, Glossitis, Trigeminal neuralgia
Liver Qi Stagnation with Spleen Qi Deficiency that transforms into Heat
Dry mouth
Along with: Irritability, Spontaneous sweat, Eye hyperemia, Palpitations, Lower abdominal oppression, Painful urination, Excessive menstruation, Abnormal uterine bleeding, Tidal fever, Infertility
Disharmony between Heart and Kidneys
Dry mouth
Along with: Dizziness, Tinnitus, Insomnia, Palpitations, Poor memory, Lower back pain, Knee pain, Night sweats, Constipation, Menopausal hot flashes
Stomach Deficiency
Dry mouth
Along with: Nausea or vomiting, Generalized fatigue, Chills, Loss of appetite, Depression, Morning sickness
Dryness
Depletes body fluids and primarily damages the lungs
Causes: Dry mouth
Dryness is the predominant pathogenic factor of autumn in Traditional Chinese Medicine. It represents environmental dryness that damages the body's fluids and particularly affects the respiratory system.
Dry-Cold
Dry mouth
Along with: Fever, Headaches, Aversion to cold, Skin dryness, Lack of sweating, Dry throat, Coughing, Scanty sputum
Dry-Heat or Dry-Fire
Dry mouth
Along with: Fever, Thirst, Excessive sweating, Sore throat, Skin dryness, Dry nose, Dry throat, Dry cough, Aversion to cold
Dry-Wind
Dry mouth
Along with: Aversion to cold, Excessive sweating, Skin dryness, Dry nose, Dry throat, Dry cough, Sore throat, Dry tongue
Large Intestine Dryness
Dry mouth
Along with: Dry stools, Dry throat, Emaciation, Dizziness, Bad breath
Dryness in Large Intestine
Dry mouth
Along with: Constipation, Thirst, Dry stools, Dry throat, Poor constitution, Dizziness, Bad breath, Irritable bowel syndrome, Hemorrhoids, Mouth ulcers
Qi Deficiency
Insufficient vital energy causing fatigue, weakness, poor digestion, and reduced function of organs and protective systems
Causes: Dry mouth
Qi Deficiency is a fundamental pattern in Traditional Chinese Medicine where the body's vital energy is insufficient to maintain normal physiological functions, leading to weakness, fatigue, and various organ dysfunctions.
Liver Qi Stagnation with Spleen Qi Deficiency that transforms into Heat
Dry mouth
Along with: Irritability, Spontaneous sweat, Eye hyperemia, Palpitations, Lower abdominal oppression, Painful urination, Excessive menstruation, Abnormal uterine bleeding, Tidal fever, Infertility
Stomach Deficiency
Dry mouth
Along with: Nausea or vomiting, Generalized fatigue, Chills, Loss of appetite, Depression, Morning sickness
Heart and Spleen Qi and Blood Deficiency
Dry mouth
Along with: Palpitations, Poor memory, Restless sleeplessness, Fever, Loss of appetite, Generalized fatigue, Coughing, Shortness of breath, Exertional dyspnea, Weight loss
Spleen Deficiency with Dampness
Dry mouth
Along with: Edema, Feeling of heaviness, Diarrhea, Urinary dysfunction, Glomerulonephritis, Kidney infection, Nephrotic syndrome, Cystitis, Hydrocele, Migraine
Blood Deficiency
Insufficient blood to nourish the body, causing paleness, dizziness, and dryness throughout the system
Causes: Dry mouth
Blood Deficiency represents a fundamental lack of blood volume or quality in the body, resulting in organs, tissues, and the mind being undernourished. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, blood not only refers to the red fluid in our vessels but encompasses the body's entire nourishing and moistening functions.
Liver Blood and Kidney Essence Deficiency
Dry mouth
Along with: Primary amenorrhea, Lower back pain, Generalized fatigue, Knee pain, Dizziness, Depression, Amenorrhea, Apathy, Chills, Dark face
Heart and Spleen Qi and Blood Deficiency
Dry mouth
Along with: Palpitations, Poor memory, Restless sleeplessness, Fever, Loss of appetite, Generalized fatigue, Coughing, Shortness of breath, Exertional dyspnea, Weight loss
Blood Deficiency with disharmony of Liver and Spleen
Dry mouth
Along with: Chest distension, Chest pain, Anemia, Dizziness, Headaches, Dry throat, Loss of appetite, Irregular periods, Leukorrhea, Breast engorgement
Dampness
Heavy, sticky moisture that obstructs body functions and creates sluggishness
Causes: Dry mouth
Dampness manifests as swelling, bloating, a feeling of heaviness in the head and limbs, and digestive issues. It's like having waterlogged tissues that make everything feel heavy and slow. Common signs include a thick, greasy tongue coating, sticky mouth sensation, and stools that are difficult to flush.
Damp-Heat
Dry mouth
Along with: Fever, Neck gland swelling, Headaches, Tight feeling in chest and stomach, Sticky taste in the mouth, Absence of thirst, Feeling of heat, Feeling of heaviness, Bitter taste in the mouth, Acne
Damp-Heat in the Lower Burner
Dry mouth
Along with: Scanty and yellow urine, Lower back pain, Weakness of lower extremities, Red and swollen feet, Swollen knee, Thick greasy vaginal secretions, Ulcers on the lower limbs, Scanty and dark urine, Painful urination, Dry throat
Spleen Deficiency with Dampness
Dry mouth
Along with: Edema, Feeling of heaviness, Diarrhea, Urinary dysfunction, Glomerulonephritis, Kidney infection, Nephrotic syndrome, Cystitis, Hydrocele, Migraine
Qi Stagnation
Blocked or disrupted flow of vital energy causing distending pain, emotional distress, and symptoms that worsen with stress
Causes: Dry mouth
Qi Stagnation is a fundamental pathological pattern in Traditional Chinese Medicine where the smooth flow of vital energy becomes obstructed, creating areas of pressure, pain, and dysfunction throughout the body.
Liver Qi Stagnation with Spleen Qi Deficiency that transforms into Heat
Dry mouth
Along with: Irritability, Spontaneous sweat, Eye hyperemia, Palpitations, Lower abdominal oppression, Painful urination, Excessive menstruation, Abnormal uterine bleeding, Tidal fever, Infertility
Liver Qi Stagnation invading the Stomach
Dry mouth
Along with: Belching, Abdominal distention, Upper abdominal distension, Depression, Irritability, Loss of appetite, Craving for sour foods, Dry throat, Acid reflux, Vomiting undigested food
Cold
Congeals body fluids, damages Yang Qi, and causes pain with fixed location
Causes: Dry mouth
Cold is the predominant pathogenic factor of winter in Traditional Chinese Medicine. Cold represents an environmental pathogen that, when excessive, causes disease characterized by its cold, congealing, and contracting nature. While Cold is the main pathogen of winter, it can cause illness in any season through exposure to cold temperatures, getting caught in rain, sweating followed by wind exposure, or excessive air conditioning.
Dry-Cold
Dry mouth
Along with: Fever, Headaches, Aversion to cold, Skin dryness, Lack of sweating, Dry throat, Coughing, Scanty sputum
Stomach Deficiency
Dry mouth
Along with: Nausea or vomiting, Generalized fatigue, Chills, Loss of appetite, Depression, Morning sickness
Essence Deficiency
Depletion of the fundamental substance governing growth, development, reproduction, and aging
Causes: Dry mouth
Essence Deficiency is a fundamental pattern category in Traditional Chinese Medicine involving insufficient Jing (精), the vital substance that governs human growth, development, reproduction, and the aging process. Jing forms the material foundation of life itself, stored primarily in the Kidneys, and manifests throughout the body as the source of constitutional strength and vitality.
Liver Blood and Kidney Essence Deficiency
Dry mouth
Along with: Primary amenorrhea, Lower back pain, Generalized fatigue, Knee pain, Dizziness, Depression, Amenorrhea, Apathy, Chills, Dark face
Body Fluids Deficiency
Insufficient body fluids leading to dryness, loss of moisture and nourishment
Causes: Dry mouth
Body Fluids Deficiency refers to the pathological state when the body's normal fluids (jin ye) are depleted, resulting in inadequate moisture and nourishment for organs, tissues, and orifices. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, body fluids encompass all normal liquid substances except blood - including saliva, tears, joint fluid, organ secretions, and metabolic fluids that maintain the body's moisture and suppleness.
Body Fluids Deficiency
Dry mouth
Along with: Skin dryness, Dry nose, Dry cough, Dry lips, Dry tongue, Dry throat, Dry stools
Yang Excess
Excessive yang energy that generates heat, agitation, and hyperactivity throughout the body systems
Causes: Dry mouth
Yang Excess represents pathological hyperactivity of the body's yang qi in Traditional Chinese Medicine. It manifests as excessive heat, inflammation, and overstimulation that disrupts the normal balance between yin and yang, causing various acute and intense symptoms.
Liver Yang Rising
Dry mouth
Along with: Headaches, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Deafness, Blurry vision, Dry throat, Insomnia, Irritability, Exhaustion, Anger, Stiff neck, Shoulder stiffness, Stiff upper back
Phlegm
Thick, sticky pathological fluid that obstructs body functions and can manifest anywhere in the body
Causes: Dry mouth
Phlegm is both a pathological product and a pathogenic factor in Traditional Chinese Medicine. It results from impaired fluid metabolism when the body's transformative functions fail, particularly affecting the Spleen, Lungs, and Kidneys. Classical texts emphasize that "the Spleen is the source of phlegm production, while the Lungs are the storage vessel for phlegm."
Phlegm-Heat
Dry mouth
Along with: Upper abdominal oppression, Mucous in feces, Depression
Wind
Causes sudden symptoms, movement disorders, and serves as the vehicle for other pathogens
Causes: Dry mouth
Wind is the predominant pathogenic factor of spring in Traditional Chinese Medicine and is considered the leader of the six external pathogens. Wind is described as "the leader of the hundred diseases" (百病之长), serving as the primary factor in external pathogenic invasions. Wind represents a pathogen characterized by constant movement, changeability, and a tendency to affect the upper and outer portions of the body.
Dry-Wind
Dry mouth
Along with: Aversion to cold, Excessive sweating, Skin dryness, Dry nose, Dry throat, Dry cough, Sore throat, Dry tongue
Herbal Formulas for Dry Mouth
Traditional Chinese Medicine formulas used to address dry mouth
Tian Wang Bu Xin Dan
Addresses these dry mouth patterns:
Main Actions
- Enriches the Yin
- Nourishes the Blood
- Clears Heat
- Calms the Mind
Addresses These Dry Mouth Pattern Variations
Heart Yin Deficiency
How it manifests:
Dry mouth
Accompanying symptoms:
Night sweats, Feeling of uneasiness, Feeling of heat, Heat sensation in palms, Hysteria, Neurasthenia
Empty-Heat or Fire caused by Yin Deficiency
How it manifests:
Dry mouth
Accompanying symptoms:
Afternoon heat sensation, Preference for sipping, Dry mouth and throat at night, Night sweats, Cardiac burning sensation, Hot palms and soles...
Disharmony between Heart and Kidneys
How it manifests:
Dry mouth
Accompanying symptoms:
Dizziness, Tinnitus, Insomnia, Palpitations, Poor memory, Lower back pain...
Xing Su San
Addresses these dry mouth patterns:
Main Actions
- Clears Dry-Cold
- Disseminates the Lung Qi and relieves cough
- Transforms thin mucus
Addresses These Dry Mouth Pattern Variations
Body Fluids Deficiency
How it manifests:
Dry mouth
Accompanying symptoms:
Skin dryness, Dry nose, Dry cough, Dry lips, Dry tongue, Dry throat...
Dry-Cold
How it manifests:
Dry mouth
Accompanying symptoms:
Fever, Headaches, Aversion to cold, Skin dryness, Lack of sweating, Dry throat...
Dry-Heat or Dry-Fire
How it manifests:
Dry mouth
Accompanying symptoms:
Fever, Thirst, Excessive sweating, Sore throat, Skin dryness, Dry nose...
Zeng Ye Tang
Addresses these dry mouth patterns:
Main Actions
- Nourishes Yin and Essence
- Lubricates Dryness
Addresses These Dry Mouth Pattern Variations
Body Fluids Deficiency
How it manifests:
Dry mouth
Accompanying symptoms:
Skin dryness, Dry nose, Dry cough, Dry lips, Dry tongue, Dry throat...
Large Intestine Dryness
How it manifests:
Dry mouth
Accompanying symptoms:
Dry stools, Dry throat, Emaciation, Dizziness, Bad breath
Dryness in Large Intestine
How it manifests:
Dry mouth
Accompanying symptoms:
Constipation, Thirst, Dry stools, Dry throat, Poor constitution, Dizziness...
Bai He Gu Jin Tang
Addresses these dry mouth patterns:
Main Actions
- Nourishes Lung and Kidney Yin
- Moistens the Lung
- Transfers Phlegm
- Clears Heat
- Reliefs Cough
Addresses These Dry Mouth Pattern Variations
Body Fluids Deficiency
How it manifests:
Dry mouth
Accompanying symptoms:
Skin dryness, Dry nose, Dry cough, Dry lips, Dry tongue, Dry throat...
Lung Yin Deficiency
How it manifests:
Dry mouth
Accompanying symptoms:
Hoarse voice, Itchy throat, Dislike of speaking, Thin chest
Dang Gui Di Huang Yin
Addresses these dry mouth patterns:
Main Actions
- Nourishes Blood
- Tonifies Kidney and Liver Yin
- Regulates the menstrual cycle
Addresses These Dry Mouth Pattern Variations
Liver Blood and Kidney Essence Deficiency
How it manifests:
Dry mouth
Accompanying symptoms:
Primary amenorrhea, Lower back pain, Generalized fatigue, Knee pain, Dizziness, Depression...
Kidney Yin Deficiency
How it manifests:
Dry mouth
Accompanying symptoms:
Excessive sweating, Back pain, Hearing loss, Dry mouth and throat at night, Lower back pain, Constipation...
He Che Da Zao Wan
Addresses these dry mouth patterns:
Main Actions
- Tonifies the Kidneys
- Strengthens the Directing and Penetrating Vessels
- Regulates the periods
Addresses These Dry Mouth Pattern Variations
Liver Blood and Kidney Essence Deficiency
How it manifests:
Dry mouth
Accompanying symptoms:
Primary amenorrhea, Lower back pain, Generalized fatigue, Knee pain, Dizziness, Depression...
Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency
How it manifests:
Dry mouth
Accompanying symptoms:
Dizziness, Tinnitus, Hearing loss, Lower back pain, Vertical headaches, Occipital headache...
Hua Ban Tang
Addresses these dry mouth patterns:
Main Actions
- Clears Qi-level Heat
- Cools the Blood
Addresses These Dry Mouth Pattern Variations
Heat in the Blood
How it manifests:
Dry mouth
Accompanying symptoms:
Feeling of heat, Red skin eruptions, Thirst, Frequent bleeding, Bloody sputum, Hematochezia...
Stomach Heat or Fire
How it manifests:
Dry mouth
Accompanying symptoms:
Upper abdominal burning pain, Excessive thirst, Craving for cold beverages, Restlessness, Dry stools, Mouth ulcers...
Liu Wei Di Huang Wan
Addresses these dry mouth patterns:
Main Actions
- Enriches the yin and nourishes the Kidneys
Addresses These Dry Mouth Pattern Variations
Liver Blood and Kidney Essence Deficiency
How it manifests:
Dry mouth
Accompanying symptoms:
Primary amenorrhea, Lower back pain, Generalized fatigue, Knee pain, Dizziness, Depression...
Disharmony between Heart and Kidneys
How it manifests:
Dry mouth
Accompanying symptoms:
Dizziness, Tinnitus, Insomnia, Palpitations, Poor memory, Lower back pain...
Mai Men Dong Tang
Addresses these dry mouth patterns:
Main Actions
- Nourishes the Stomach
- Generates Body Fluids
- Directs Rebellious Qi downward
Addresses These Dry Mouth Pattern Variations
Stomach Deficiency
How it manifests:
Dry mouth
Accompanying symptoms:
Nausea or vomiting, Generalized fatigue, Chills, Loss of appetite, Depression, Morning sickness
Stomach Yin Deficiency
How it manifests:
Dry mouth
Accompanying symptoms:
Loss of appetite, Preference for sipping, Slight abdominal distension after eating
Qi Ju Di Huang Wan
Addresses these dry mouth patterns:
Main Actions
- Nourishes Kidney and Liver Yin
- Improves vision
Addresses These Dry Mouth Pattern Variations
Liver Yang Rising
How it manifests:
Dry mouth
Accompanying symptoms:
Headaches, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Deafness, Blurry vision, Dry throat...
Kidney Yin Deficiency
How it manifests:
Dry mouth
Accompanying symptoms:
Excessive sweating, Back pain, Hearing loss, Dry mouth and throat at night, Lower back pain, Constipation...
Qing Zao Jiu Fei Tang
Addresses these dry mouth patterns:
Main Actions
- Clears dryness
- Moistens the Lungs
Addresses These Dry Mouth Pattern Variations
Dry-Heat or Dry-Fire
How it manifests:
Dry mouth
Accompanying symptoms:
Fever, Thirst, Excessive sweating, Sore throat, Skin dryness, Dry nose...
Lung Yin Deficiency
How it manifests:
Dry mouth
Accompanying symptoms:
Hoarse voice, Itchy throat, Dislike of speaking, Thin chest
Sang Xing Tang
Addresses these dry mouth patterns:
Main Actions
- Clears and disperses Dryness
Addresses These Dry Mouth Pattern Variations
Dry-Heat or Dry-Fire
How it manifests:
Dry mouth
Accompanying symptoms:
Fever, Thirst, Excessive sweating, Sore throat, Skin dryness, Dry nose...
Dry-Wind
How it manifests:
Dry mouth
Accompanying symptoms:
Aversion to cold, Excessive sweating, Skin dryness, Dry nose, Dry throat, Dry cough...
Shen Ling Bai Zhu San
Addresses these dry mouth patterns:
Main Actions
- Augments the Qi
- Strengthens the Spleen
- Drains Dampness
- Stops diarrhea
Addresses These Dry Mouth Pattern Variations
Stomach and Spleen Yin Deficiency
How it manifests:
Dry mouth
Accompanying symptoms:
Loss of appetite, Preference for sipping, Dry stools, Dry lips, Nausea, Generalized fatigue...
Stomach Yin Deficiency
How it manifests:
Dry mouth
Accompanying symptoms:
Loss of appetite, Preference for sipping, Slight abdominal distension after eating
Wen Dan Tang
Addresses these dry mouth patterns:
Main Actions
- Clears Phlegm
- Clears Gallbladder
- Regulates Qi
- Harmonizes the Stomach
Addresses These Dry Mouth Pattern Variations
Stomach Fire or Stomach Heat
How it manifests:
Dry mouth
Accompanying symptoms:
Toothache, Headaches, Loose teeth, Bleeding gums, Irritability, Thirst...
Phlegm-Heat
How it manifests:
Dry mouth
Accompanying symptoms:
Upper abdominal oppression, Mucous in feces, Depression
Xiao Yao San
Addresses these dry mouth patterns:
Main Actions
- Harmonizes the function of Liver and Spleen
- Relieves Liver Qi stagnation
- Nourishes the Blood
Addresses These Dry Mouth Pattern Variations
Damp-Heat
How it manifests:
Dry mouth
Accompanying symptoms:
Fever, Neck gland swelling, Headaches, Tight feeling in chest and stomach, Sticky taste in the mouth, Absence of thirst...
Blood Deficiency with disharmony of Liver and Spleen
How it manifests:
Dry mouth
Accompanying symptoms:
Chest distension, Chest pain, Anemia, Dizziness, Headaches, Dry throat...
Zuo Gui Yin
Addresses these dry mouth patterns:
Main Actions
- Nourishes the Yin
- Tonifies the Kidneys
Addresses These Dry Mouth Pattern Variations
Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency
How it manifests:
Dry mouth
Accompanying symptoms:
Dizziness, Tinnitus, Hearing loss, Lower back pain, Vertical headaches, Occipital headache...
Kidney Yin Deficiency
How it manifests:
Dry mouth
Accompanying symptoms:
Excessive sweating, Back pain, Hearing loss, Dry mouth and throat at night, Lower back pain, Constipation...
Ba Zheng San
Addresses these dry mouth patterns:
Main Actions
- Clears Heat and Fire
- Promotes urination
- Unblocks painful urinary dribbling
- Purges Fire
Addresses These Dry Mouth Pattern Variations
Damp-Heat in the Lower Burner
How it manifests:
Dry mouth
Accompanying symptoms:
Scanty and yellow urine, Lower back pain, Weakness of lower extremities, Red and swollen feet, Swollen knee, Thick greasy vaginal secretions...
Bai He Di Huang Tang
Addresses these dry mouth patterns:
Main Actions
- Moistens the Lungs
- Enriches the Body Fluids
- Clears Heat and cools the Blood
Addresses These Dry Mouth Pattern Variations
Heat in the Blood
How it manifests:
Dry mouth
Accompanying symptoms:
Feeling of heat, Red skin eruptions, Thirst, Frequent bleeding, Bloody sputum, Hematochezia...
Ban Xia Hou Pu Tang
Addresses these dry mouth patterns:
Main Actions
- Regulates the flow of Qi,
- Clears Phlegm
- Treats esophageal spasm
- Descends Rebellious Qi
- Dissipates clumps
- Relieves Stagnation
Addresses These Dry Mouth Pattern Variations
Liver Qi Stagnation invading the Stomach
How it manifests:
Dry mouth
Accompanying symptoms:
Belching, Abdominal distention, Upper abdominal distension, Depression, Irritability, Loss of appetite...
Bi Xie Fen Qing Yin
Addresses these dry mouth patterns:
Main Actions
- Clears Heat
- Warms the Kidneys
- Drains Dampness
- Separates the clear from the turbid
Addresses These Dry Mouth Pattern Variations
Spleen Deficiency with Dampness
How it manifests:
Dry mouth
Accompanying symptoms:
Edema, Feeling of heaviness, Diarrhea, Urinary dysfunction, Glomerulonephritis, Kidney infection...
Bu Fei E Jiao Tang
Addresses these dry mouth patterns:
Main Actions
- Nourishes the Yin
- Controls coughing
- Stops bleeding
- Tonifies the Lungs
Addresses These Dry Mouth Pattern Variations
Lung Yin Deficiency
How it manifests:
Dry mouth
Accompanying symptoms:
Hoarse voice, Itchy throat, Dislike of speaking, Thin chest
Da Chai Hu Tang
Addresses these dry mouth patterns:
Main Actions
- Harmonizes and releases the Lesser Yang
- Drains internal clumping due to Heat
Addresses These Dry Mouth Pattern Variations
Liver Yang Rising
How it manifests:
Dry mouth
Accompanying symptoms:
Headaches, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Deafness, Blurry vision, Dry throat...
Dan Zhi Xiao Yao San
Addresses these dry mouth patterns:
Main Actions
- Clears Liver Fire from Stagnant Liver Qi
Addresses These Dry Mouth Pattern Variations
Kidney Yin Deficiency
How it manifests:
Dry mouth
Accompanying symptoms:
Excessive sweating, Back pain, Hearing loss, Dry mouth and throat at night, Lower back pain, Constipation...
Dang Gui Liu Huang Tang
Addresses these dry mouth patterns:
Main Actions
- Enriches the Yin
- Drains Fire
- Stabilizes the Exterior
- Stops sweating
Addresses These Dry Mouth Pattern Variations
Empty-Heat or Fire caused by Yin Deficiency
How it manifests:
Dry mouth
Accompanying symptoms:
Afternoon heat sensation, Preference for sipping, Dry mouth and throat at night, Night sweats, Cardiac burning sensation, Hot palms and soles...
Ding Chuan Tang
Addresses these dry mouth patterns:
Main Actions
- Clears Lung Heat
- Descends Lung Qi
- Relief wheezing and cough
- Transforms Phlegm
Addresses These Dry Mouth Pattern Variations
Phlegm-Heat
How it manifests:
Dry mouth
Accompanying symptoms:
Upper abdominal oppression, Mucous in feces, Depression
Er Chen Tang
Addresses these dry mouth patterns:
Main Actions
- Dries Damp and dispels Phlegm
- Regulates Qi and harmonizes the Middle Burner (Stomach and Spleen)
Addresses These Dry Mouth Pattern Variations
Stomach Deficiency
How it manifests:
Dry mouth
Accompanying symptoms:
Nausea or vomiting, Generalized fatigue, Chills, Loss of appetite, Depression, Morning sickness
Er Miao San
Addresses these dry mouth patterns:
Main Actions
- Expels Dampness from the Lower Burner
- Drains Heat from the Lower Burner
Addresses These Dry Mouth Pattern Variations
Damp-Heat
How it manifests:
Dry mouth
Accompanying symptoms:
Fever, Neck gland swelling, Headaches, Tight feeling in chest and stomach, Sticky taste in the mouth, Absence of thirst...
Er Zhi Wan
Addresses these dry mouth patterns:
Main Actions
- Nourishes Liver Yin
- Nourishes Kidney Yin
Addresses These Dry Mouth Pattern Variations
Deficiency of the Liver and Kidney Yin
How it manifests:
Dry mouth
Accompanying symptoms:
Sore knees, Lower back pain, Knee weakness, Dry tongue, Dizziness, Blurry vision...
Fei Er Wan
Addresses these dry mouth patterns:
Main Actions
- Kills parasites
- Reduces accumulation
- Strengthens the Spleen
- Clears Heat
Addresses These Dry Mouth Pattern Variations
Stomach Heat or Fire
How it manifests:
Dry mouth
Accompanying symptoms:
Upper abdominal burning pain, Excessive thirst, Craving for cold beverages, Restlessness, Dry stools, Mouth ulcers...
Gan Mai Da Zao Tang
Addresses these dry mouth patterns:
Main Actions
- Nourishes the Heart
- Calms the Mind
- Harmonizes the middle burner
- Relaxes tension
Addresses These Dry Mouth Pattern Variations
Heart Yin Deficiency
How it manifests:
Dry mouth
Accompanying symptoms:
Night sweats, Feeling of uneasiness, Feeling of heat, Heat sensation in palms, Hysteria, Neurasthenia
Gu Jing Wan
Addresses these dry mouth patterns:
Main Actions
- Nourishes Yin
- Clears Heat
- Stops bleeding
- Stabilizes the menses
Addresses These Dry Mouth Pattern Variations
Heat in the Blood
How it manifests:
Dry mouth
Accompanying symptoms:
Feeling of heat, Red skin eruptions, Thirst, Frequent bleeding, Bloody sputum, Hematochezia...
Gua Lou San
Addresses these dry mouth patterns:
Main Actions
- Remove breast carbuncle (mastitis) after birth giving
Addresses These Dry Mouth Pattern Variations
Stomach Fire or Stomach Heat
How it manifests:
Dry mouth
Accompanying symptoms:
Toothache, Headaches, Loose teeth, Bleeding gums, Irritability, Thirst...
Gui Shao Di Huang Tang
Addresses these dry mouth patterns:
Main Actions
- Nourishes Blood
- Nourishes Yin
Addresses These Dry Mouth Pattern Variations
Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency
How it manifests:
Dry mouth
Accompanying symptoms:
Dizziness, Tinnitus, Hearing loss, Lower back pain, Vertical headaches, Occipital headache...
Gun Tan Wan
Addresses these dry mouth patterns:
Main Actions
- Drains Fire and Phlegm
Addresses These Dry Mouth Pattern Variations
Phlegm-Heat
How it manifests:
Dry mouth
Accompanying symptoms:
Upper abdominal oppression, Mucous in feces, Depression
Huang Lian E Jiao Tang
Addresses these dry mouth patterns:
Main Actions
- Enriches the Yin
- Causes Fire to descend
- Eliminates irritability
- Calms the spirit
Addresses These Dry Mouth Pattern Variations
Empty-Heat or Fire caused by Yin Deficiency
How it manifests:
Dry mouth
Accompanying symptoms:
Afternoon heat sensation, Preference for sipping, Dry mouth and throat at night, Night sweats, Cardiac burning sensation, Hot palms and soles...
Jia Wei Xiao Yao San
Addresses these dry mouth patterns:
Main Actions
- Clears Liver and Spleen Qi Stagnation
- Tonifies Spleen
- Clears Deficient Heat
- Nourishes the blood
- Clears Liver Fire from Stagnant Liver Qi
Addresses These Dry Mouth Pattern Variations
Liver Qi Stagnation with Spleen Qi Deficiency that transforms into Heat
How it manifests:
Dry mouth
Accompanying symptoms:
Irritability, Spontaneous sweat, Eye hyperemia, Palpitations, Lower abdominal oppression, Painful urination...
Jiu Xian San
Addresses these dry mouth patterns:
Main Actions
- Secures the Lungs
- Stops coughing
- Augments Qi
- Nourishes Yin
Addresses These Dry Mouth Pattern Variations
Lung Yin Deficiency
How it manifests:
Dry mouth
Accompanying symptoms:
Hoarse voice, Itchy throat, Dislike of speaking, Thin chest
Ling Jiao Gou Teng Tang
Addresses these dry mouth patterns:
Main Actions
- Cools the Liver
- Extinguishes Wind
- Increases Fluids
- Relaxes the sinews
Addresses These Dry Mouth Pattern Variations
Liver Yang Rising
How it manifests:
Dry mouth
Accompanying symptoms:
Headaches, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Deafness, Blurry vision, Dry throat...
Liu Jun Zi Tang
Addresses these dry mouth patterns:
Main Actions
- Tonifies Qi
- Strengthens the Spleen and Stomach
- Clears Phlegm and mucus
- Promotes appetite
Addresses These Dry Mouth Pattern Variations
Spleen Deficiency with Dampness
How it manifests:
Dry mouth
Accompanying symptoms:
Edema, Feeling of heaviness, Diarrhea, Urinary dysfunction, Glomerulonephritis, Kidney infection...
Ma Zi Ren Wan
Addresses these dry mouth patterns:
Main Actions
- Moistens the Intestines
- Invigorates Qi
- Unblocks the bowels
- Drains Heat
Addresses These Dry Mouth Pattern Variations
Large Intestine Dryness
How it manifests:
Dry mouth
Accompanying symptoms:
Dry stools, Dry throat, Emaciation, Dizziness, Bad breath
Qing Hao Bie Jia Tang
Addresses these dry mouth patterns:
Main Actions
- Nourishes the Yin
- Clears Heat
Addresses These Dry Mouth Pattern Variations
Empty-Heat or Fire caused by Yin Deficiency
How it manifests:
Dry mouth
Accompanying symptoms:
Afternoon heat sensation, Preference for sipping, Dry mouth and throat at night, Night sweats, Cardiac burning sensation, Hot palms and soles...
Qing Qi Hua Tan Wan
Addresses these dry mouth patterns:
Main Actions
- Clears Heat
- Transforms Phlegm
- Directs Rebellious Qi downwards
- Stops coughing
Addresses These Dry Mouth Pattern Variations
Phlegm-Heat
How it manifests:
Dry mouth
Accompanying symptoms:
Upper abdominal oppression, Mucous in feces, Depression
Qing Re Gu Jing Tang
Addresses these dry mouth patterns:
Main Actions
- Clears Empty Heat
- Tonifies the Kidney Yin
- Stops bleeding
- Supplies Body Fluids
Addresses These Dry Mouth Pattern Variations
Heat in the Blood
How it manifests:
Dry mouth
Accompanying symptoms:
Feeling of heat, Red skin eruptions, Thirst, Frequent bleeding, Bloody sputum, Hematochezia...
Qing Re Tiao Xue Tang
Addresses these dry mouth patterns:
Main Actions
- Expel Dampness
- Relieve pain
- Move Qi and Blood
Addresses These Dry Mouth Pattern Variations
Damp-Heat
How it manifests:
Dry mouth
Accompanying symptoms:
Fever, Neck gland swelling, Headaches, Tight feeling in chest and stomach, Sticky taste in the mouth, Absence of thirst...
Qing Wei San
Addresses these dry mouth patterns:
Main Actions
- Drains Stomach Fire
- Cools the Blood
- Nourishes the Yin
Addresses These Dry Mouth Pattern Variations
Stomach Heat or Fire
How it manifests:
Dry mouth
Accompanying symptoms:
Upper abdominal burning pain, Excessive thirst, Craving for cold beverages, Restlessness, Dry stools, Mouth ulcers...
Qing Ying Tang
Addresses these dry mouth patterns:
Main Actions
- Clears the Nutritive level Heat
- Relieves Fire Toxin
- Removes Heat
- Nourishes Yin
Addresses These Dry Mouth Pattern Variations
Heat in the Blood
How it manifests:
Dry mouth
Accompanying symptoms:
Feeling of heat, Red skin eruptions, Thirst, Frequent bleeding, Bloody sputum, Hematochezia...
Ren Shen Yang Rong Tang
Addresses these dry mouth patterns:
Main Actions
- Tonifies Qi and Blood
- Nourishes the Heart
- Calms the Mind
- Warms Yang
- Strengthens the Spleen and Lungs
Addresses These Dry Mouth Pattern Variations
Heart and Spleen Qi and Blood Deficiency
How it manifests:
Dry mouth
Accompanying symptoms:
Palpitations, Poor memory, Restless sleeplessness, Fever, Loss of appetite, Generalized fatigue...
Shi Hui San
Addresses these dry mouth patterns:
Main Actions
- Cools the Blood and
- Stops bleeding
- Clears Heat and drains Fire
Addresses These Dry Mouth Pattern Variations
Heat in the Blood
How it manifests:
Dry mouth
Accompanying symptoms:
Feeling of heat, Red skin eruptions, Thirst, Frequent bleeding, Bloody sputum, Hematochezia...
Si Wu Tang
Addresses these dry mouth patterns:
Main Actions
- Restores and nourishes Blood
- Stimulates Blood circulation
Addresses These Dry Mouth Pattern Variations
Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency
How it manifests:
Dry mouth
Accompanying symptoms:
Dizziness, Tinnitus, Hearing loss, Lower back pain, Vertical headaches, Occipital headache...
Suan Zao Ren Tang
Addresses these dry mouth patterns:
Main Actions
- Nourishes the Blood
- Calms the Mind and eliminates irritability
- Clears Heat
Addresses These Dry Mouth Pattern Variations
Empty-Heat or Fire caused by Yin Deficiency
How it manifests:
Dry mouth
Accompanying symptoms:
Afternoon heat sensation, Preference for sipping, Dry mouth and throat at night, Night sweats, Cardiac burning sensation, Hot palms and soles...
Tian Ma Gou Teng Yin
Addresses these dry mouth patterns:
Main Actions
- Calms the Liver
- Extinguishes wind
- Invigorates the blood
- Clears heat
- Tonifies the Liver and Kidneys
Addresses These Dry Mouth Pattern Variations
Liver Yang Rising
How it manifests:
Dry mouth
Accompanying symptoms:
Headaches, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Deafness, Blurry vision, Dry throat...
Tiao Gan Tang
Addresses these dry mouth patterns:
Main Actions
- Nourishes Kidney and Liver Yin
Addresses These Dry Mouth Pattern Variations
Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency
How it manifests:
Dry mouth
Accompanying symptoms:
Dizziness, Tinnitus, Hearing loss, Lower back pain, Vertical headaches, Occipital headache...
Tiao Wei Cheng Qi Tang
Addresses these dry mouth patterns:
Main Actions
- Removes Heat and Dryness in the Lower Burner
- Removes constipation
Addresses These Dry Mouth Pattern Variations
Stomach Heat or Fire
How it manifests:
Dry mouth
Accompanying symptoms:
Upper abdominal burning pain, Excessive thirst, Craving for cold beverages, Restlessness, Dry stools, Mouth ulcers...
Xi Jiao Di Huang Tang
Addresses these dry mouth patterns:
Main Actions
- Treats severe fevers and Heat in the Blood system
- Removes Blood Stagnation
Addresses These Dry Mouth Pattern Variations
Heat in the Blood
How it manifests:
Dry mouth
Accompanying symptoms:
Feeling of heat, Red skin eruptions, Thirst, Frequent bleeding, Bloody sputum, Hematochezia...
Xiang Sha Liu Jun Zi Tang
Addresses these dry mouth patterns:
Main Actions
- Tonifies Spleen and Stomach Qi
- Removes Dampness
- Moves Qi
- Alleviates pain
- Strengthens the Spleen and Harmonizes the Stomach,
Addresses These Dry Mouth Pattern Variations
Stomach Deficiency
How it manifests:
Dry mouth
Accompanying symptoms:
Nausea or vomiting, Generalized fatigue, Chills, Loss of appetite, Depression, Morning sickness
Xie Huang San
Addresses these dry mouth patterns:
Main Actions
- Clears Stagnant Fire from the Spleen and Stomach
Addresses These Dry Mouth Pattern Variations
Stomach Heat or Fire
How it manifests:
Dry mouth
Accompanying symptoms:
Upper abdominal burning pain, Excessive thirst, Craving for cold beverages, Restlessness, Dry stools, Mouth ulcers...
Yang Yin Qing Fei Tang
Addresses these dry mouth patterns:
Main Actions
- Nourishes the Yin
- Improves throat
- Resolves toxicity
- Clears the Lungs
Addresses These Dry Mouth Pattern Variations
Lung Yin Deficiency
How it manifests:
Dry mouth
Accompanying symptoms:
Hoarse voice, Itchy throat, Dislike of speaking, Thin chest
Yi Wei Tang
Addresses these dry mouth patterns:
Main Actions
- Strengthen the Stomach
- Creates Body Fluids
Addresses These Dry Mouth Pattern Variations
Stomach Yin Deficiency
How it manifests:
Dry mouth
Accompanying symptoms:
Loss of appetite, Preference for sipping, Slight abdominal distension after eating
Yu Nu Jian
Addresses these dry mouth patterns:
Main Actions
- Clears stomach Heat
- Nourishes Kidney Yin
Addresses These Dry Mouth Pattern Variations
Stomach Fire or Stomach Heat
How it manifests:
Dry mouth
Accompanying symptoms:
Toothache, Headaches, Loose teeth, Bleeding gums, Irritability, Thirst...
Zhen Xin An Shen Tang
Addresses these dry mouth patterns:
Main Actions
- Anchors the Heart and calms the Mind
Addresses These Dry Mouth Pattern Variations
Liver Yang Rising
How it manifests:
Dry mouth
Accompanying symptoms:
Headaches, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Deafness, Blurry vision, Dry throat...
Zhen Zhu Mu Wan
Addresses these dry mouth patterns:
Main Actions
- Nourishes the Yin and Blood
- Sedates the Heart and calms the Mind
- Calms the Liver
- Anchors the yang
Addresses These Dry Mouth Pattern Variations
Liver Yang Rising
How it manifests:
Dry mouth
Accompanying symptoms:
Headaches, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Deafness, Blurry vision, Dry throat...
Zuo Jin Wan
Addresses these dry mouth patterns:
Main Actions
- Clears Liver Heat
- Directs Rebellious Qi downward
- Stops vomiting
Addresses These Dry Mouth Pattern Variations
Liver Qi Stagnation invading the Stomach
How it manifests:
Dry mouth
Accompanying symptoms:
Belching, Abdominal distention, Upper abdominal distension, Depression, Irritability, Loss of appetite...
Pi Pa Qing Fei Yin
Traditional formula for dry mouth
Main Actions
- Clears Lung Heat
- Cools the Blood
- Clears Dampness
- Invigorates the Blood