Cought With Sticky Phlegmaccording to TCM
Symptom family: Cough Related Symptoms
Sub-symptom(s): Chronic Cough With Sticky Phlegm
Did you mean? Cough With Thin Yellow Sputum
What is Cough with Sticky Phlegm?
Cough with sticky phlegm is a respiratory condition characterized by the production of thick, viscous mucus that is difficult to expel, often leading to a persistent cough. This symptom can indicate underlying issues such as infections, allergies, or chronic respiratory conditions like bronchitis or asthma.
The sticky nature of the phlegm can cause discomfort and a feeling of congestion in the chest, making breathing laborious and exacerbating the coughing episodes. Understanding the nature of the phlegm and the accompanying symptoms is crucial for diagnosing and treating the underlying cause effectively.
How does TCM view Cough with Sticky Phlegm?
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) views cough with sticky phlegm as a manifestation of disharmony within the body, specifically related to the accumulation of Phlegm and Dampness. According to TCM principles, this condition often arises from an imbalance in the Lung and Spleen's ability to transport and transform bodily fluids, leading to the production of excessive Phlegm.
TCM emphasizes identifying the underlying pattern of disharmony causing the symptom, as treatment is tailored to harmonize the body, improve Qi flow, and eliminate Phlegm, rather than merely suppressing the cough.
Root Causes of Cought With Sticky Phlegm in TCM
In TCM, cough with sticky phlegm is primarily attributed to Phlegm-Fluids in the Lungs, which can obstruct the flow of vital energy and lead to the accumulation of sticky phlegm. Conditions such as Phlegm-Fluids in the Lungs manifest with symptoms like coughing, a stifling sensation in the chest, and dizziness, indicating the presence of cold or dampness obstructing the lung's functions.
Identifying and addressing these patterns are crucial in TCM, focusing on restoring the balance of Yin and Yang, and ensuring the smooth circulation of Qi and fluids within the body.
Explore below more details about what might cause Cought with sticky phlegm according to TCM.
- By Syndrome
- By Organ
- Phlegm
- Lung
Phlegm
In TCM "Phlegm" as a pattern of disharmony is a complex concept that extends beyond the physical manifestation of mucus. It represents a pathological factor that can disrupt the flow of Qi (vital energy) and blood, leading to various health issues. Phlegm in TCM is seen as a sticky, turbid substance arising from the body's inability to metabolize fluids properly, often due to a dysfunction of the spleen. It's not only associated with respiratory problems like cough and congestion but also with systemic issues. Symptoms can include a feeling of heaviness, mental cloudiness, dizziness, and in some cases, the formation of lumps or masses. Phlegm can even be "invisible," contributing to emotional disturbances like depression or stress. ... see more
Phlegm Patterns That Can Lead to Cought With Sticky Phlegm
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Phlegm-Fluids in the Lungs | Cought with sticky phlegm, Coughing, White and watery sputum, Shortness of breath, Gurgling noise in the chest, Stifling sensation in the chest, Feeling of heaviness, Dizziness, Chills, Itchy throat... see more | Ling Gan Wu Wei Jiang Xin Tang | Zhi Sou San |
Lung
In TCM the Lungs are seen as the organ responsible for controlling Qi and respiration, as well as being a key part of the body's defensive system. They are thought to maintain the balance and flow of air and moisture, and are closely linked to the skin and hair. When the Lungs are imbalanced or malfunctioning in TCM, it can lead to respiratory issues like coughing or asthma, a weakened immune system, dry skin, and emotional disturbances such as sadness or grief. These symptoms are believed to arise from disruptions in the Lungs' ability to regulate Qi and protect the body, highlighting their central role in maintaining overall health and well-being.... see more
Lung Patterns That Can Lead to Cought With Sticky Phlegm
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Phlegm-Fluids in the Lungs | Cought with sticky phlegm, Coughing, White and watery sputum, Shortness of breath, Gurgling noise in the chest, Stifling sensation in the chest, Feeling of heaviness, Dizziness, Chills, Itchy throat... see more | Ling Gan Wu Wei Jiang Xin Tang | Zhi Sou San |
TCM Herbal Formulas for Cought With Sticky Phlegm
To treat cough with sticky phlegm, TCM practitioners may recommend formulas like Ling Gan Wu Wei Jiang Xin Tang and Zhi Sou San. Ling Gan Wu Wei Jiang Xin Tang, which includes Dried ginger (Gan Jiang), warms the interior and transforms Phlegm-Cold, targeting the root cause of Phlegm accumulation.
Zhi Sou San, containing Aster Roots (Zi Wan), specifically transforms Phlegm and extinguishes Wind, relieving coughing and wheezing associated with sticky phlegm. These formulas exemplify TCM's holistic approach, aiming to address both the symptoms and the underlying imbalances contributing to the condition.
Explore below some TCM herbal formulas used to address cought with sticky phlegm, organized by cause and by formula type.
- By Cause
- By Formula Type
- Phlegm
- Formulas that warm and transform phlegm-Cold
- Formulas that transform phlegm and extinguish wind
Top Formula for Phlegm:
Ling Gan Wu Wei Jiang Xin Tang
Suitable for Phlegm patterns that may cause cought with sticky phlegm, such as Phlegm-Fluids in the Lungs
Learn moreAll Formulas Recommended for Cought With Sticky Phlegm Caused by Phlegm
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For |
|---|---|
| Ling Gan Wu Wei Jiang Xin Tang | Phlegm-Fluids in the Lungs |
| Zhi Sou San | Phlegm-Fluids in the Lungs |
Formulas that warm and transform Phlegm-Cold
These formulas are suitable for some cought with sticky phlegm-causing patterns like Phlegm-Fluids in the Lungs.
One such formula is Ling Gan Wu Wei Jiang Xin Tang, with dried ginger as a key herb.
Formulas that transform Phlegm and extinguish Wind
These formulas are suitable for some cought with sticky phlegm-causing patterns like Phlegm-Fluids in the Lungs.
One such formula is Zhi Sou San, with aster root as a key herb.
TCM Herbs for Cought With Sticky Phlegm
Explore below some TCM herbs used to address cought with sticky phlegm, organized by herb category.
- By Herb Category
- Herbs that relieve coughing and wheezing
- Warm herbs that transform phlegm and stop cough
- Tonic herbs for yin deficiency
- Cool herbs that transform phlegm and stop cough
- Herbs that regulate qi
- Herbs that warm the interior and/or expel cold
Herbs that relieve coughing and wheezing
Cought with sticky phlegm can be treated by these herbs when it originates from obstructions in the lung pathways, helping to ease respiratory discomfort and restore normal breathing.
One such herb is Aster Roots (Zi Wan), a key herb in some formulas recommended for cought with sticky phlegm, like Zhi Sou San.
Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.
"Herbs that relieve coughing and wheezing" recommended for cought with sticky phlegm
| Herb | Formulas they belong to (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Aster Roots (Zi Wan) | Zhi Sou San |
| Stemona Roots (Bai Bu) | Zhi Sou San |
Warm herbs that transform Phlegm and stop Cough
Cought with sticky phlegm can be treated by these herbs when it results from phlegm due to cold deficiency, aiming to warm the lungs and dissolve phlegm accumulation.
One such herb is Arisaema (Tian Nan Xing), which is directly recommended for cought with sticky phlegm.
Tonic herbs for Yin Deficiency
Cought with sticky phlegm can be treated by these herbs when caused by a lack of Yin, which is essential for cooling and moistening the body, thereby restoring balance.
One such herb is Chinese Asparagus Tubers (Tian Men Dong), which is directly recommended for cought with sticky phlegm.
Cool herbs that transform Phlegm and stop Cough
Cought with sticky phlegm can be treated by these herbs when it is related to heat-phlegm accumulation, aiding in dissolving phlegm and soothing the respiratory system.
One such herb is Chlorite Schist (Meng Shi), which is directly recommended for cought with sticky phlegm.
Herbs that regulate Qi
Cought with sticky phlegm can be treated by these herbs when resulting from Qi stagnation or imbalance, helping to promote the smooth flow of Qi in the body.
One such herb is Red Tangerine Peel (Ju Hong), which is directly recommended for cought with sticky phlegm.
Herbs that warm the Interior and/or expel Cold
Cought with sticky phlegm can be treated by these herbs if it is due to internal coldness or deficient Yang energy, working to warm the body and dispel cold.
One such herb is Dried Ginger (Gan Jiang), a key herb in some formulas recommended for cought with sticky phlegm, like Ling Gan Wu Wei Jiang Xin Tang.