Chronic Laryngitisaccording to TCM

What is Chronic Laryngitis?

Chronic laryngitis is an inflammation of the larynx (voice box) that persists for an extended period, typically longer than three weeks. This condition can lead to a hoarse voice, loss of voice, and sometimes throat pain or discomfort.

Chronic laryngitis can be caused by a variety of factors, including long-term exposure to irritants, vocal strain, infections, and underlying health conditions. Unlike acute laryngitis, which is often temporary and resolves with proper care, chronic laryngitis may require more comprehensive treatment to address both symptoms and underlying causes.

How does TCM view Chronic Laryngitis?

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) approaches chronic laryngitis not just as a localized inflammation but as a symptom of imbalance within the body's energetic system. According to TCM, the health of the larynx is closely related to the condition of the Lung and Kidney, as well as the balance of Qi (vital energy) and Yin (the body's cooling, nourishing element).

Chronic laryngitis, in TCM, is often seen as a manifestation of underlying disharmonies such as Qi Deficiency or Rebellions, Yin Deficiency, or an invasion of external pathogenic factors like Wind-Heat or Wind-Cold.

Causes of Chronic Laryngitis According to TCM

In TCM, chronic laryngitis is often attributed to several patterns of disharmony, including Qi Deficiency and the invasion of external pathogens. Qi Deficiency can lead to a weakened immune system, making the body more susceptible to chronic inflammation of the larynx.

This condition is also seen as a consequence of prolonged exposure to external pathogens such as Wind-Heat or Wind-Cold, which can invade the body when it's weakened and cause persistent inflammation. These patterns underscore the importance of treating both the symptoms and the root causes within TCM's holistic framework.

TCM Herbal Formulas for Chronic Laryngitis

To address chronic laryngitis, TCM recommends formulas that tonify Qi, thereby enhancing the body's vital energy and immune function. One such formula is Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang, which includes Milkvetch Roots (Huang Qi) as a key ingredient. This formula is particularly beneficial for treating Qi Deficiency, Qi Collapsing, or Qi Sinking, and Spleen Qi Sinking. By strengthening the Qi, these treatments aim to improve the health of the larynx, reduce inflammation, and restore the voice, tackling chronic laryngitis at its root.

See more details below about Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang, a herbal formula used to address chronic laryngitis.

TCM Herbs for Chronic Laryngitis

See more details below about Milkvetch Roots (Huang Qi), a herb used to address chronic laryngitis.