What is Sore Throat?

A sore throat is a common affliction characterized by pain, scratchiness, or irritation of the throat, often worsened by swallowing. This discomfort can be the result of viral infections, bacterial infections, allergens, or environmental irritants.

Synonyms such as pharyngitis or tonsillitis may be used depending on the specific area of the throat that is inflamed. Chronic sore throat might indicate recurring or persistent issues, signaling deeper health concerns or the need for a comprehensive medical evaluation.

How does TCM view Sore Throat?

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) approaches sore throat as a symptom arising from imbalances within the body's energy system. Unlike Western medicine, which often isolates symptoms, TCM considers a sore throat as a sign of underlying disharmonies, such as Heat, Wind, or Dryness invading the body.

TCM emphasizes the importance of diagnosing the specific pattern of disharmony causing the sore throat. Treatment strategies involve rebalancing the body's Qi (vital energy), nourishing Yin, and clearing away the pathogenic factors responsible for the symptom.

Root Causes of Sore Throat in TCM

Traditional Chinese Medicine perceives a sore throat as a manifestation of an imbalance within the body’s energetic system. TCM identifies several patterns that could lead to this ailment, often involving an invasion of external pathogenic factors like Wind or Heat, or an internal condition of Dryness affecting the throat.

Recognizing the precise pattern is pivotal — whether it's an invasion of Wind-Heat manifesting with symptoms like fever and a rapid onset of throat pain, or a condition of Dryness creating a persistently scratchy throat. By discerning the underlying pattern, TCM practitioners can tailor an approach that addresses the root cause, promoting a return to balanced health.

Explore below more details about what might cause Sore throat according to TCM.

  • By Syndrome
  • By Organ
  • Lung
  • Kidney
  • Liver
Detailed description of the cause

Heat

In TCM "Heat" signifies an excess of Yang energy, leading to an imbalance where heat predominates over the body's cool Yin aspects. This condition is metaphorically akin to an internal over-heating. Symptoms indicative of Heat can include feelings of warmth, fever, sweating, irritability, red face, thirst with a preference for cold drinks, and a rapid pulse. The tongue may appear red with a yellow coating. Unlike the common interpretation of heat in terms of temperature, in TCM, it represents a state of hyperactivity or inflammation in the body.... see more

Heat Patterns That Can Lead to Sore Throat

Common Symptoms: Fever Thirst Tonsil Swelling Aversion To Cold Dark Urine Coughing Excessive Sweating Carbuncles

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Dry-Heat or Dry-Fire Sore throat, Fever, Thirst, Excessive sweating, Skin dryness, Dry nose, Dry throat, Dry cough, Aversion to cold, Dry mouth... see more Qing Zao Jiu Fei Tang | Xing Su San | Sang Xing Tang
Toxic-Heat Sore throat, Fever, Edema, Pus and discharge, Boils, Carbuncles, Pustule, Red skin eruptions, Eczema, Perineum swollen, Prostate swollen, Testicular swelling, Mouth ulcers, Tonsil swelling... see more Yin Qiao San | Sang Ju Yin | Bai Hu Tang | Long Dan Xie Gan Tang | Qing Ying Tang | Xi Jiao Di Huang Tang | Huang Lian Jie Du Tang | Xin Yi Qing Fei Yin | Gan Lu Xiao Du Dan | Shi Wei Bai Du San | San Zhong Kui Jian Tang | Zi Dang Gao | Er Qing Gao | Bing Peng San | Pu Ji Xiao Du Yin
Toxic-Heat Stagnation Sore throat, Pustule, Carbuncles, Fever, Red skin eruptions, Throat pain, Eczema, Perineum swollen, Prostate swollen, Testicular swelling, Mouth ulcers, Tonsil swelling... see more Huang Lian Jie Du Tang | Xin Yi Qing Fei Yin
Wind-Heat Sore throat, Aversion to cold, Fever, Sneezing, Coughing, Nasal discharge, Occipital stiffness, Occipital headache, Excessive sweating, Yellowish phlegm... see more Yin Qiao San | Sang Ju Yin | Bing Peng San | Pu Ji Xiao Du Yin | Cong Chi Tang | Huo Ren Cong Shi Tang | Jing Jie Lian Qiao Tang | Zhu Ye Cheng Liu Tang | Xiao Feng San | Fang Feng Tong Sheng San
Wind-Heat invading the Lungs Sore throat, Aversion to cold, Fever, Coughing, Congested nose, Nasal discharge, Copious thick yellow sputum, Sneezing, Headaches, Body pain, Thirst, Tonsil swelling... see more Yin Qiao San
Detailed description of the cause

Wind

In TCM "Wind" is a concept that represents a pattern of disharmony, often characterized by its sudden and unpredictable nature, much like a gusty wind changing direction without warning. This pattern is associated with symptoms that come and go quickly or move around the body, such as itching, tremors, or even certain types of pain. Wind is considered to be a primary cause of illnesses that have these rapidly changing characteristics. In TCM, external Wind often refers to illnesses that start suddenly, like the common cold, believed to be caused by external pathogenic factors like climatic changes. On the other hand, internal Wind can be linked to internal imbalances and can manifest in conditions like dizziness or spasms. ... see more

Wind Patterns That Can Lead to Sore Throat

Common Symptoms: Aversion To Cold Fever Sneezing Coughing Nasal Discharge Congested Nose Headaches Excessive Sweating

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Dry-Wind Sore throat, Aversion to cold, Excessive sweating, Skin dryness, Dry nose, Dry mouth, Dry throat, Dry cough, Dry tongue... see more Sang Xing Tang
Wind-Cold Sore throat, Aversion to cold, Fever, Sneezing, Coughing, Nasal discharge, Occipital headache, Occipital stiffness, Congested nose, White and watery sputum... see more Jing Fang Bai Du San | Cong Chi Tang | Huo Ren Cong Shi Tang | Ma Huang Tang | Jiu Wei Qiang Huo Tang | Jia Wei Xiang Su San | Shi Shen Tang | Jin Fei Cao San | Wu Ji San
Wind-Heat Sore throat, Aversion to cold, Fever, Sneezing, Coughing, Nasal discharge, Occipital stiffness, Occipital headache, Excessive sweating, Yellowish phlegm... see more Yin Qiao San | Sang Ju Yin | Bing Peng San | Pu Ji Xiao Du Yin | Cong Chi Tang | Huo Ren Cong Shi Tang | Jing Jie Lian Qiao Tang | Zhu Ye Cheng Liu Tang | Xiao Feng San | Fang Feng Tong Sheng San
Wind-Heat invading the Lungs Sore throat, Aversion to cold, Fever, Coughing, Congested nose, Nasal discharge, Copious thick yellow sputum, Sneezing, Headaches, Body pain, Thirst, Tonsil swelling... see more Yin Qiao San
Detailed description of the cause

Dryness

"Dryness" in TCM refers to a state where there is a lack of moisture in the body, much like how the land feels during a drought. It's a pattern of disharmony that can arise from external factors like dry weather or internal issues, such as insufficient fluid intake or certain lifestyle habits. When your body experiences this dryness, you might notice symptoms like dry skin, a scratchy throat, dry eyes, or even constipation. It's similar to the feeling of being parched or having dry, chapped lips in a very dry climate. TCM views this as an imbalance where the body's yin - often associated with moisture and cooling - is depleted.... see more

Dryness Patterns That Can Lead to Sore Throat

Common Symptoms: Excessive Sweating Skin Dryness Dry Nose Dry Throat Dry Cough Aversion To Cold Dry Mouth Fever

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Dry-Heat or Dry-Fire Sore throat, Fever, Thirst, Excessive sweating, Skin dryness, Dry nose, Dry throat, Dry cough, Aversion to cold, Dry mouth... see more Qing Zao Jiu Fei Tang | Xing Su San | Sang Xing Tang
Dry-Wind Sore throat, Aversion to cold, Excessive sweating, Skin dryness, Dry nose, Dry mouth, Dry throat, Dry cough, Dry tongue... see more Sang Xing Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Yin Deficiency

Yin deficiency in TCM is a pattern of disharmony characterized by a depletion of the body's Yin energy, which represents the cooling, moistening, and nurturing aspects of our physiology. This condition often arises from factors like chronic stress, overwork, insufficient rest, or prolonged illness. Symptoms of Yin deficiency can include a sensation of heat, especially in the afternoon or evening, night sweats, insomnia, a dry mouth or throat, and a red tongue with little coating. There might also be a general feeling of restlessness or irritability. Since Yin is essential for balancing the body's active and warm Yang energy, its deficiency leads to a relative excess of Yang, manifesting as heat or dryness symptoms.... see more

Yin Deficiency Patterns That Can Lead to Sore Throat

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency Chronic sore throat, 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... see more Liu Wei Di Huang Wan | Ming Mu Di Huang Wan
Detailed description of the cause

Cold

In TCM "Cold" as a pattern of disharmony refers to a specific type of imbalance within the body's systems, often linked to a deficiency or weakness. It's not about feeling physically cold or having a common cold, but rather a metaphorical description of certain symptoms and underlying conditions. When a TCM practitioner says someone suffers from "Cold," it usually implies that the body's Yang energy, which is warm and active, is insufficient or overpowered by Yin energy, which is cool and passive. Symptoms of Cold in TCM can include a general feeling of coldness, cold limbs, pale complexion, low energy, slow metabolism, and a preference for warmth. ... see more

Cold Patterns That Can Lead to Sore Throat

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Wind-Cold Sore throat, Aversion to cold, Fever, Sneezing, Coughing, Nasal discharge, Occipital headache, Occipital stiffness, Congested nose, White and watery sputum... see more Jing Fang Bai Du San | Cong Chi Tang | Huo Ren Cong Shi Tang | Ma Huang Tang | Jiu Wei Qiang Huo Tang | Jia Wei Xiang Su San | Shi Shen Tang | Jin Fei Cao San | Wu Ji San
Detailed description of the cause

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 Sore Throat

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Wind-Heat invading the Lungs Sore throat, Aversion to cold, Fever, Coughing, Congested nose, Nasal discharge, Copious thick yellow sputum, Sneezing, Headaches, Body pain, Thirst, Tonsil swelling... see more Yin Qiao San
Detailed description of the cause

Kidney

In TCM the Kidneys are regarded as the body's most fundamental reservoir of Essence, known as Jing, which influences growth, reproduction, and aging. They are not just organs for filtering blood, but a holistic system governing vital life forces. When the Kidneys malfunction in TCM, it can manifest as a variety of health issues, such as chronic fatigue, reproductive problems, imbalances in fluid metabolism leading to edema or dryness, lower back pain, and a sense of fear or insecurity.... see more

Kidney Patterns That Can Lead to Sore Throat

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency Chronic sore throat, 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... see more Liu Wei Di Huang Wan | Ming Mu Di Huang Wan
Detailed description of the cause

Liver

In TCM the Liver is viewed as the organ responsible for the smooth flow of Qi, Blood, and emotions throughout the body. It plays a key role in regulating mood, storing blood, supporting digestion, and ensuring the health of tendons and eyes. When the Liver malfunctions or is imbalanced in TCM, it can lead to a range of issues such as irritability, mood swings, menstrual irregularities, eye problems, and muscular stiffness or pain. A malfunctioning Liver in TCM reflects not only physical disturbances but also emotional and mental disharmony, emphasizing the holistic approach of TCM in addressing health and wellness.... see more

Liver Patterns That Can Lead to Sore Throat

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency Chronic sore throat, 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... see more Liu Wei Di Huang Wan | Ming Mu Di Huang Wan

TCM Herbal Formulas for Sore Throat

In the treatment of a sore throat, TCM emphasizes restoring harmony and balance through the use of herbal formulas. Depending on the diagnosed pattern, a practitioner may recommend a formula to clear Heat, nourish Dryness, or expel Wind.

The chosen formula might combine ingredients known to soothe the throat, support immune function, and address specific symptoms like swelling, redness, or pain. These formulas are complex and carefully balanced to ensure they target the various facets of the condition, reflecting TCM's holistic approach to healing.

Explore below some TCM herbal formulas used to address sore throat, organized by cause and by formula type.

  • By Cause
  • By Formula Type
  • External formulas for external disorders
  • Formulas that clear wind-Cold
  • Formulas that clear wind-Heat
  • Formulas that disperse dryness and moisten
  • Formulas that clear heat from the organs
  • Formulas that clear nutritive-level heat
  • Formulas that clear heat and resolve toxicity
  • Formulas that clear external abscesses and sores
  • Formulas that clear early-stage exterior disorders
  • Formulas that nourish yin and tonify
  • Formulas that clear dryness
  • Formulas that clear qi-level heat
  • Formulas that clear heat and expel dampness
  • Formulas that release the exterior and warm the interior
  • Formulas that dredge and disperse external wind
  • Formulas that release the exterior and purge the interior

All Formulas Recommended for Sore Throat Caused by Heat

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Yin Qiao San Toxic-Heat, Wind-Heat, Wind-Heat invading the Lungs
Sang Ju Yin Toxic-Heat, Wind-Heat
Huang Lian Jie Du Tang Toxic-Heat, Toxic-Heat Stagnation
Xin Yi Qing Fei Yin Toxic-Heat, Toxic-Heat Stagnation
Bing Peng San Toxic-Heat, Wind-Heat
Pu Ji Xiao Du Yin Toxic-Heat, Wind-Heat
Sang Xing Tang Dry-Heat or Dry-Fire
Cong Chi Tang Wind-Heat
Huo Ren Cong Shi Tang Wind-Heat
Qing Zao Jiu Fei Tang Dry-Heat or Dry-Fire
Xing Su San Dry-Heat or Dry-Fire
Bai Hu Tang Toxic-Heat
Long Dan Xie Gan Tang Toxic-Heat
Qing Ying Tang Toxic-Heat
Xi Jiao Di Huang Tang Toxic-Heat
Gan Lu Xiao Du Dan Toxic-Heat
Shi Wei Bai Du San Toxic-Heat
San Zhong Kui Jian Tang Toxic-Heat
Zi Dang Gao Toxic-Heat
Er Qing Gao Toxic-Heat
Jing Jie Lian Qiao Tang Wind-Heat
Zhu Ye Cheng Liu Tang Wind-Heat
Xiao Feng San Wind-Heat
Fang Feng Tong Sheng San Wind-Heat

All Formulas Recommended for Sore Throat Caused by Wind

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Yin Qiao San Wind-Heat, Wind-Heat invading the Lungs
Cong Chi Tang Wind-Cold, Wind-Heat
Huo Ren Cong Shi Tang Wind-Cold, Wind-Heat
Sang Xing Tang Dry-Wind
Sang Ju Yin Wind-Heat
Bing Peng San Wind-Heat
Pu Ji Xiao Du Yin Wind-Heat
Jing Fang Bai Du San Wind-Cold
Ma Huang Tang Wind-Cold
Jiu Wei Qiang Huo Tang Wind-Cold
Jia Wei Xiang Su San Wind-Cold
Shi Shen Tang Wind-Cold
Jin Fei Cao San Wind-Cold
Wu Ji San Wind-Cold
Jing Jie Lian Qiao Tang Wind-Heat
Zhu Ye Cheng Liu Tang Wind-Heat
Xiao Feng San Wind-Heat
Fang Feng Tong Sheng San Wind-Heat

All Formulas Recommended for Sore Throat Caused by Dryness

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Sang Xing Tang Dry-Heat or Dry-Fire, Dry-Wind
Qing Zao Jiu Fei Tang Dry-Heat or Dry-Fire
Xing Su San Dry-Heat or Dry-Fire

All Formulas Recommended for Sore Throat Caused by Yin Deficiency

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Liu Wei Di Huang Wan Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency
Ming Mu Di Huang Wan Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency

All Formulas Recommended for Sore Throat Caused by Cold

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Cong Chi Tang Wind-Cold
Huo Ren Cong Shi Tang Wind-Cold
Jing Fang Bai Du San Wind-Cold
Ma Huang Tang Wind-Cold
Jiu Wei Qiang Huo Tang Wind-Cold
Jia Wei Xiang Su San Wind-Cold
Shi Shen Tang Wind-Cold
Jin Fei Cao San Wind-Cold
Wu Ji San Wind-Cold

All "external formulas for external disorders" recommended for sore throat

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Yin Qiao San Toxic-Heat, Wind-Heat, Wind-Heat invading the Lungs
Bing Peng San Toxic-Heat, Wind-Heat
Zi Dang Gao Toxic-Heat
Er Qing Gao Toxic-Heat
Jing Fang Bai Du San Wind-Cold

All "formulas that clear heat and resolve toxicity" recommended for sore throat

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Huang Lian Jie Du Tang Toxic-Heat, Toxic-Heat Stagnation
Pu Ji Xiao Du Yin Toxic-Heat, Wind-Heat

All "formulas that clear wind-Heat" recommended for sore throat

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Sang Ju Yin Toxic-Heat, Wind-Heat
Jing Jie Lian Qiao Tang Wind-Heat
Zhu Ye Cheng Liu Tang Wind-Heat

All "formulas that clear heat from the organs" recommended for sore throat

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Xin Yi Qing Fei Yin Toxic-Heat, Toxic-Heat Stagnation
Long Dan Xie Gan Tang Toxic-Heat

All "formulas that clear early-stage exterior disorders" recommended for sore throat

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Cong Chi Tang Wind-Cold, Wind-Heat
Huo Ren Cong Shi Tang Wind-Cold, Wind-Heat

All "formulas that clear wind-Cold" recommended for sore throat

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Ma Huang Tang Wind-Cold
Jiu Wei Qiang Huo Tang Wind-Cold
Jia Wei Xiang Su San Wind-Cold
Shi Shen Tang Wind-Cold
Jin Fei Cao San Wind-Cold

All "formulas that disperse dryness and moisten" recommended for sore throat

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Qing Zao Jiu Fei Tang Dry-Heat or Dry-Fire
Xing Su San Dry-Heat or Dry-Fire

All "formulas that clear nutritive-level heat" recommended for sore throat

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Qing Ying Tang Toxic-Heat
Xi Jiao Di Huang Tang Toxic-Heat

All "formulas that clear external abscesses and sores" recommended for sore throat

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Shi Wei Bai Du San Toxic-Heat
San Zhong Kui Jian Tang Toxic-Heat

All "formulas that nourish yin and tonify" recommended for sore throat

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Liu Wei Di Huang Wan Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency
Ming Mu Di Huang Wan Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency

Acupoints for Sore Throat

In managing a sore throat, specific acupoints are utilized to harmonize imbalances and alleviate discomfort. Points along the meridians associated with the throat, such as those on the Lung and Large Intestine Channels, are typically selected for their effectiveness in clearing Heat, expelling Wind, and promoting the smooth flow of Qi to the affected area.

By stimulating these points, TCM aims to enhance the body's self-healing mechanisms, relieve sore throat symptoms, and address the deeper pattern of disharmony causing the condition.

Explore below some acupoints used to address sore throat, organized by meridian.

  • By Meridian
  • Lung Channel
  • Triple Burner Channel
  • Stomach Channel
  • Large Intestine Channel
Yuji LU-10

Yuji LU-10

On the radial aspect of the midpoint of the first metacarpal bone, on the junction of the red and white skin (the junction of the dorsum and palm of the hand).

Shaoshang LU-11

Shaoshang LU-11

On the radial side of the thumb, about 0.1 cun posterior to the corner of the nail.

Waiguan TB-5

Waiguan TB-5

2 cun above Yangchi TB-4 at the dorsal wrist joint space, between the radius and ulna.

Sidu TB-9

Sidu TB-9

5 cun distal to the lateral epicondyle of the humerus, between the radius and ulna.

Jiexi ST-41

Jiexi ST-41

At the junction of the dorsum of the foot and leg, between the tendons of extensor digitorum and the extensor hallucis longus muscle. Approximately at the level of the tip of the external malleolus.

Shangyang LI-1

Shangyang LI-1

On the radial side of the index finger, about 0.1 cun posterior to the nail corner.