Bad taste in the mouth according to Chinese Medicine

Bitter taste in the mouth redirects here

The information provided here is not a replacement for a doctor. You shouldn't use it for the purpose of self-diagnosing or self-medicating but rather so you can have a more informed discussion with a professional TCM practitioner.

What is bad taste in the mouth?

A bad - often bitter or metallic - taste in the mouth can have various causes including poor mouth hygiene, the medications you're taking, acid reflux, etc.

What causes bad taste in the mouth according to TCM?

There are 21 patterns of disharmony in our database that are associated with bad taste in the mouth. TCM sees our body (and mind) as a holistic system in which health issues stem from imbalances, known as "patterns of disharmony". These patterns can manifest in a wide range of symptoms and illnesses, such as bad taste in the mouth here.

All the patterns associated with bad taste in the mouth are "Full" (also called "Excess") in nature. This means that according to TCM bad taste in the mouth is seen as an acute condition, caused by an excess of pathological factors or substances that overwhelm the body's defensive capabilities.

"Heat" is the most common of these pathogenic factors, present in 14 of the patterns associated with bad taste in the mouth. Other pathogenic factors and excesses which might contribute to bad taste in the mouth include "Dampness", "Phlegm" and "Damp-Heat".

For more details on the underlying causes and patterns behind bad taste in the mouth, refer to this comprehensive page on the subject.

Herbal formulas used in TCM for bad taste in the mouth

Section coming soon...

Individual herbs used in TCM for bad taste in the mouth

Section coming soon...

Acupuncture and acupressure points for bad taste in the mouth

Section coming soon...

TCM dietary and lifestyle recommendations that might help with bad taste in the mouth

Section coming soon...