Epiglottitisaccording to TCM
Symptom family: Upper Respiratory Tract Infections
What is Epiglottitis?
Epiglottitis is a potentially life-threatening condition characterized by the inflammation and swelling of the epiglottis, the flap of tissue that sits atop the windpipe (trachea) and prevents food from entering the airways.
The inflammation can rapidly progress, leading to difficulty in breathing, swallowing, and speaking. Epiglottitis is often caused by bacterial infection and requires immediate medical attention to prevent airway obstruction.
TCM Perspective on Epiglottitis
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) approaches epiglottitis from a holistic standpoint, focusing on the disharmonies and imbalances within the body that contribute to the condition. Unlike Western medicine, which typically concentrates on the infection and inflammation itself, TCM considers epiglottitis as a manifestation of underlying imbalances in the body's Qi (vital energy), and the interplay of different organ systems, particularly the Lungs.
TCM practitioners would assess the individual's overall health, including factors such as energy levels, digestion, and immune function, to determine the root cause of the epiglottitis.
Causes of Epiglottitis According to TCM
In TCM, epiglottitis is often attributed to two main pathological factors. Firstly, Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs, where an accumulation of Phlegm combined with heat leads to inflammation and swelling in the throat, including the epiglottis. This is often seen in individuals with a background of Lung Heat symptoms, like a cough, fever, and yellow sputum.
The TCM patterns are identified based on a comprehensive assessment of symptoms and overall health, and the treatment is tailored to address these specific imbalances.
TCM Herbal Formulas for Epiglottitis
To treat epiglottitis, TCM relies on various herbal formulas that address the underlying patterns. For instance, Qing Xin Li Ge Tang is a formula often recommended for cases dominated by Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs. This formula contains Saposhnikovia Roots (Fang Feng) as a key ingredient, known for its properties to expel Wind and dampness and to alleviate inflammation.
Such formulas aim to clear Heat, transform Phlegm, and nourish the Lungs, thereby reducing the inflammation of the epiglottis. The choice of formula and herbs is personalized, depending on the patient's specific TCM pattern diagnosis.
See more details below about Qing Xin Li Ge Tang, a herbal formula used to address epiglottitis.
- By Formula Type
- Formulas that clear internal abscesses and sores
Formulas that clear internal abscesses and sores
Epiglottitis can be treated by these formulas if it is related to internal heat causing abscesses and sores.
One such formula is Qing Xin Li Ge Tang, with saposhnikovia root as a key herb.
TCM Herbs for Epiglottitis
Explore below some TCM herbs used to address epiglottitis, organized by herb category.
- By Herb Category
- Warm/Acrid herbs that release the exterior
- Cool/Acrid herbs that release the exterior
Warm/Acrid herbs that release the Exterior
Epiglottitis can be treated by these herbs when there is a need to dispel external cold and warm the body, especially in cases where there is insufficient Yang energy internally.
One such herb is Saposhnikovia Roots (Fang Feng), a key herb in some formulas recommended for epiglottitis, like Qing Xin Li Ge Tang.
Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.
"Warm/Acrid herbs that release the Exterior" recommended for epiglottitis
| Herb | Formulas they belong to (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Saposhnikovia Roots (Fang Feng) | Qing Xin Li Ge Tang |
| Japanese Catnip (Jing Jie) | Qing Xin Li Ge Tang |
Cool/Acrid herbs that release the Exterior
Epiglottitis can be treated by these herbs when the body needs to harmonize with external environmental changes, particularly when there's a need to expel pathogenic factors like wind or cold without overly cooling the body.
One such herb is Wild Mint (Bo He), a key herb in some formulas recommended for epiglottitis, like Qing Xin Li Ge Tang.