Chronic Pharyngitisaccording to TCM
Symptom family: Throat & Pharyngeal Inflammations and Pains
Parent symptom: Pharyngitis
What is Chronic Pharyngitis?
Chronic pharyngitis manifests as a persisting inflammation of the pharynx, leading to discomfort and pain in the throat that lasts for extended periods. Characterized by symptoms such as a persistent sore throat, dryness, and possibly difficulty swallowing, it is a condition that may significantly impact one's quality of life.
Unlike acute pharyngitis, which is often temporary and linked to infections, chronic pharyngitis lingers, indicating a potential underlying chronic condition.
How does TCM View Chronic Pharyngitis?
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) approaches chronic pharyngitis as an imbalance within the body's systems. Recognizing it as a sign of disharmony, TCM looks beyond the symptoms to the root cause, which can stem from imbalances such as a Deficiency of Yin or an accumulation of Heat.
The treatment focuses on restoring balance and harmony within the body, tailoring to the unique pattern of disharmony in each individual.
Causes of Chronic Pharyngitis According to TCM
In TCM, chronic pharyngitis is often attributed to a Deficiency of Lung Yin, leading to a Dryness that affects the throat. Alternatively, it may arise from a persistent Body Fluids Deficiency. These underlying imbalances are reflective of deeper issues within the organ systems, particularly the Lungs and Kidney, which in TCM are responsible for maintaining moisture and cooling the body. Addressing these imbalances is crucial for providing lasting relief from chronic pharyngitis.
TCM Herbal Formulas for Chronic Pharyngitis
When it comes to TCM remedies for chronic pharyngitis, two formulas are often suggested due to their nourishing properties. Bai He Gu Jin Tang, rich with Lily Bulbs, is favored for its ability to moisturize and restore the Body Fluids and Lung Yin, especially beneficial for those experiencing dryness and a persistent sore throat.
Another formula, Bu Fei E Jiao Tang, which includes Donkey-hide gelatin, is also frequently recommended for its effectiveness in nurturing Lung Yin and providing relief for the throat. The selection of these formulas is based on the patient's specific TCM diagnosis to ensure an accurate match to their pattern of imbalance.
Explore below some TCM herbal formulas used to address chronic pharyngitis, organized by formula type.
- By Formula Type
- Formulas that nourish yin and tonify
Formulas that nourish Yin and tonify
Chronic pharyngitis can be treated by these formulas when it arises from a deficiency in Yin energy, needing nourishment and strengthening of the body's vital essence.
One such formula is Bai He Gu Jin Tang, with lily bulb as a key herb.
Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.
All "formulas that nourish yin and tonify" recommended for chronic pharyngitis
| Formula | Key herbs |
|---|---|
| Bai He Gu Jin Tang | Lily Bulbs (Bai He), Prepared Rehmannia (Shu Di huang), Unprepared Rehmannia (Di Huang) |
| Bu Fei E Jiao Tang | Donkey-Hide Gelatin (E Jiao) |
TCM Herbs for Chronic Pharyngitis
Explore below some TCM herbs used to address chronic pharyngitis, organized by herb category.
- By Herb Category
- Tonic herbs for yin deficiency
- Tonic herbs for blood deficiency
- Herbs that cool the blood
- Herbs that invigorate the blood
Tonic herbs for Yin Deficiency
Chronic pharyngitis 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 Lily Bulbs (Bai He), a key herb in some formulas recommended for chronic pharyngitis, like Bai He Gu Jin Tang.
Tonic herbs for Blood Deficiency
Chronic pharyngitis can be treated by these herbs in cases of blood deficiency, working to nourish and replenish the body's blood supply.
One such herb is Prepared Rehmannia (Shu Di huang), a key herb in some formulas recommended for chronic pharyngitis, like Bai He Gu Jin Tang.
Herbs that cool the Blood
Chronic pharyngitis can be treated by these herbs when it is a consequence of excess heat in the blood, helping to cool and detoxify the blood.
One such herb is Unprepared Rehmannia (Di Huang), a key herb in some formulas recommended for chronic pharyngitis, like Bai He Gu Jin Tang.
Herbs that invigorate the Blood
Chronic pharyngitis can be treated by these herbs when it stems from stagnation or poor circulation of blood, helping to improve blood flow and alleviate related discomfort.
One such herb is Donkey-Hide Gelatin (E Jiao), a key herb in some formulas recommended for chronic pharyngitis, like Bu Fei E Jiao Tang.