Laryngitis in Traditional Chinese Medicine
Understanding different laryngitis patterns according to TCM theory
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Condition Categories
Condition Categories
Laryngitis, a common condition characterized by inflammation of the larynx, leads to symptoms such as hoarseness, a weak or lost voice, throat pain, and sometimes fever and cough. This condition can manifest in acute forms, often triggered by viral infections or overuse of the voice, and chronic forms, which may result from extended exposure to irritants or misuse of the vocal cords. The distinction between acute and chronic laryngitis lies in the duration and underlying causes of the symptoms, with chronic cases presenting a more persistent challenge.
From the perspective of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), laryngitis is viewed as a symptom of imbalance within the body's Qi (vital energy) and Yin (the cooling, nourishing element). TCM identifies specific patterns of disharmony, such as Qi stagnation and Yin Deficiency, that contribute to the condition.
These imbalances can affect the Lung and Kidney Channels, leading to the symptoms associated with laryngitis. TCM emphasizes the importance of diagnosing the underlying pattern of disharmony to effectively treat the condition.
TCM Patterns for Laryngitis
Each pattern represents a distinct underlying imbalance that can cause laryngitis
Lung Yin Deficiency
Diagnostic signs
Rapid (Shu), Empty (Xu), Floating (Fu)
Normal or red color with no coating
Recommended herbal formulas
Stomach Yin Deficiency
Diagnostic signs
Empty (Xu), Floating (Fu)
Normal color with rootless coating or without coating in the center
Recommended herbal formulas
Qi-Phlegm
Diagnostic signs
Slippery (Hua), Wiry (Xian)
Recommended herbal formulas
Herbal Formulas for Laryngitis
Traditional Chinese Medicine formulas used to address laryngitis