Author: Tang Yulan, TCM Practitioner (Apprentice) (Practice License Number: 341431381000002) This article is written by Dr. Tang Yulan, based on classical TCM theories and clinical experience, and is intended for general knowledge and educational purposes. The professional qualifications can be publicly verified on the National Health Commission of China's official website.
When many people mention halitosis, their first reaction is "excessive internal heat," especially when they experience abdominal distension and poor digestion. They feel that it's due to an excessive amount of stomach fire and can't wait to drink some rhizoma coptidis decoction or take some fire-reducing tablets. But have you ever wondered why some people's halitosis gets worse after trying to cool down the fire, and abdominal distension becomes more pronounced? Behind this, there is often a more subtle differentiation of symptoms in clinical TCM practice.
Title
The Root Cause of Halitosis: More Than Just Excessive Stomach FireIn TCM, halitosis can be caused by various factors, not just excessive stomach fire. For example, it can be due to dampness-heat in the stomach, leading to the generation of phlegm, which obstructs the meridians and causes halitosis. Or it can be due to liver qi stagnation, affecting the stomach's function and causing halitosis. Therefore, it is important to diagnose the root cause of halitosis and treat it accordingly.
Title
How to Differentiate and Treat Halitosis in TCMIn TCM, the differentiation and treatment of halitosis mainly rely on the symptoms and signs of the patient. For example, if the patient has symptoms such as abdominal distension, belching, and a greasy tongue coating, it is likely due to dampness-heat in the stomach. In this case, the treatment should focus on clearing dampness and heat, promoting digestion, and resolving phlegm. Commonly used herbs include rhizoma coptidis, scutellaria baicalensis, and poria cocos.
If the patient has symptoms such as irritability, mood swings, and a bitter taste in the mouth, it is likely due to liver qi stagnation. In this case, the treatment should focus on soothing the liver, regulating qi, and clearing heat. Commonly used herbs include bupleurum, scutellaria baicalensis, and peony root.