Symptom checker

Phlegm In Respiratory Systemaccording to TCM

Causes Icon 2 causes Herbal Formulas Icon 1 herbal formula Herbs Icon 2 herbs

Symptom family: Respiratory Secretions

Root Causes of Phlegm In Respiratory System in TCM

Explore below more details about what might cause Phlegm in respiratory system according to TCM.

  • By Syndrome
  • By Organ
  • Phlegm
  • Dampness
  • Lung
Detailed description of the cause

Phlegm

In TCM "Phlegm" as a pattern of disharmony is a complex concept that extends beyond the physical manifestation of mucus. It represents a pathological factor that can disrupt the flow of Qi (vital energy) and blood, leading to various health issues. Phlegm in TCM is seen as a sticky, turbid substance arising from the body's inability to metabolize fluids properly, often due to a dysfunction of the spleen. It's not only associated with respiratory problems like cough and congestion but also with systemic issues. Symptoms can include a feeling of heaviness, mental cloudiness, dizziness, and in some cases, the formation of lumps or masses. Phlegm can even be "invisible," contributing to emotional disturbances like depression or stress. ... see more

Phlegm Patterns That Can Lead to Phlegm In Respiratory System

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Damp-Phlegm in the Lungs Sputum in the lungs and throat, Coughing, Pale face, Sputum, Stifling sensation in the chest, Shortness of breath, Discomfort when lying down, Wheezing, Nausea, Feeling of heaviness, Dizziness, Profuse white sputum, Asthma, Chest distension... see more Er Chen Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Dampness

"Dampness" in TCM is a concept that describes a pattern of disharmony where the body accumulates excess moisture. Imagine the heavy, sticky feeling you get on a very humid day; that's similar to what dampness feels like internally. It can manifest as a sense of heaviness, bloating, sluggishness, or even a foggy mind. This condition is often thought to arise from environmental factors like living in a damp place, dietary habits that promote moisture in the body, or internal imbalances that hinder the body's ability to process fluids properly. In TCM, dampness can obstruct the normal flow of energy and fluids in the body, leading to various symptoms.... see more

Dampness Patterns That Can Lead to Phlegm In Respiratory System

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Damp-Phlegm in the Lungs Sputum in the lungs and throat, Coughing, Pale face, Sputum, Stifling sensation in the chest, Shortness of breath, Discomfort when lying down, Wheezing, Nausea, Feeling of heaviness, Dizziness, Profuse white sputum, Asthma, Chest distension... see more Er Chen Tang
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 Phlegm In Respiratory System

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Damp-Phlegm in the Lungs Sputum in the lungs and throat, Coughing, Pale face, Sputum, Stifling sensation in the chest, Shortness of breath, Discomfort when lying down, Wheezing, Nausea, Feeling of heaviness, Dizziness, Profuse white sputum, Asthma, Chest distension... see more Er Chen Tang

TCM Herbal Formulas for Phlegm In Respiratory System

See more details below about Er Chen Tang, a herbal formula used to address phlegm in respiratory system.

  • By Cause
  • By Formula Type
  • Phlegm
  • Dampness
  • Formulas that dry dampness and transform phlegm

Top Formula for Phlegm:
Er Chen Tang

Suitable for Phlegm patterns that may cause phlegm in respiratory system, such as Damp-Phlegm in the Lungs

Learn more

Top Formula for Dampness:
Er Chen Tang

Suitable for Dampness patterns that may cause phlegm in respiratory system, such as Damp-Phlegm in the Lungs

Learn more

Formulas that dry Dampness and transform Phlegm

These formulas are suitable for some phlegm in respiratory system-causing patterns like Damp-Phlegm in the Lungs.

One such formula is Er Chen Tang, with crow-dipper rhizome as a key herb.

TCM Herbs for Phlegm In Respiratory System

Explore below some TCM herbs used to address phlegm in respiratory system, organized by herb category.

  • By Herb Category
  • Warm herbs that transform phlegm and stop cough
  • Herbs that regulate qi

Warm herbs that transform Phlegm and stop Cough

Phlegm in respiratory system can be treated by these herbs when it results from phlegm due to cold deficiency, aiming to warm the lungs and dissolve phlegm accumulation.

One such herb is Crow-Dipper Rhizomes (Ban Xia), a key herb in some formulas recommended for phlegm in respiratory system, like Er Chen Tang.

Herbs that regulate Qi

Phlegm in respiratory system can be treated by these herbs when resulting from Qi stagnation or imbalance, helping to promote the smooth flow of Qi in the body.

One such herb is Tangerine Peel (Chen Pi), a key herb in some formulas recommended for phlegm in respiratory system, like Er Chen Tang.