Symptom checker

Coated Tongueaccording to TCM

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

Symptom family: Tongue Symptoms

Root Causes of Coated Tongue in TCM

Explore below more details about what might cause Coated tongue according to TCM.

  • By Syndrome
  • Phlegm
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 Coated Tongue

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Phlegm Thick tongue coating, Feeling of oppression of the chest, Head fog, Dizziness Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan

TCM Herbal Formulas for Coated Tongue

See more details below about Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan, a herbal formula used to address coated tongue.

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

Top Formula for Phlegm:
Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan

Suitable for Phlegm patterns that may cause coated tongue, such as Phlegm

Learn more

Formulas that dry Dampness and transform Phlegm

These formulas are suitable for some coated tongue-causing patterns like Phlegm.

One such formula is Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan, with coco-grass rhizome as a key herb.

TCM Herbs for Coated Tongue

Explore below some TCM herbs used to address coated tongue, organized by herb category.

  • By Herb Category
  • Herbs that regulate qi
  • Aromatic herbs that transform dampness

Herbs that regulate Qi

Coated tongue 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 Coco-Grass Rhizomes (Xiang Fu), a key herb in some formulas recommended for coated tongue, like Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan.

Aromatic herbs that transform Dampness

Coated tongue can be treated by these herbs if it stems from damp accumulation, especially in the digestive system, using aromatic properties to transform and dispel dampness.

One such herb is Black Atractylodes Rhizomes (Cang Zhu), a key herb in some formulas recommended for coated tongue, like Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan.