Halitosis and Bitter Taste Often Indicate Spleen-Stomach Damp-Heat: Regaining Health

Today, let’s discuss the common issue of Spleen-Stomach damp-heat. Many people wake up in the morning with halitosis, and when looking in the mirror, they notice a thick, greasy, yellow or white tongue coating. This may indicate Spleen-Stomach damp-heat. The Spleen and Stomach are located in the middle of the body; when there is heat, the heat rises, causing food in the stomach to ‘change flavor,’ resulting in halitosis, and some may also experience a bitter taste. There may be a feeling of fullness and blockage in the epigastric region (stomach area), sweaty and sticky hands and feet, and overall fatigue, although feeling better after sweating during activity. These can also be manifestations of Spleen-Stomach damp-heat.Additionally, unformed stools that stick to the toilet, oily facial hair, and abnormal vaginal discharge in women may also be related to Spleen-Stomach damp-heat.

Regulation Methods

Chinese Patent Medicine Regulation

1. Gan Lu Xiao Du Dan (Sweet Dew Detox Pill):If you experience halitosis, a bitter taste, a yellow greasy tongue coating, and fullness in the stomach area, consider using this. It can promote dampness elimination, clear heat, and detoxify, but be sure to consult a doctor before use.
2. Ge Gen Qin Lian Wan (Pueraria, Scutellaria, and Coptis Pill):If Spleen-Stomach damp-heat is accompanied by diarrhea and anal burning, this is more suitable as it can release the exterior, promote dampness elimination, and stop diarrhea. However, medication should be taken according to a doctor’s advice.
3. Er Miao Wan (Two Marvels Pill):If women have an increased volume of yellow, foul-smelling vaginal discharge, or men experience dampness in the scrotum, heaviness in the lower limbs, and joint pain, you may try Er Miao Wan, which specializes in clearing heat and drying dampness. Remember to consult a doctor before use.
4. Huo Xiang Qing Wei Jiao Nang (Agastache Stomach Clearing Capsules):If damp-heat in the Spleen-Stomach leads to indigestion, abdominal bloating, and halitosis, consider this medicine, which can clear heat, transform dampness, and awaken the Spleen to eliminate stagnation. However, specific usage should follow medical advice.

Acupoint Massage

1. Zu San Li (Stomach 36):Located on the outer side of the lower leg, three inches below the knee. Press and knead with your fingers for 3-5 minutes until you feel soreness. Regular massage can promote Spleen-Stomach function and eliminate damp-heat. You can do this while watching TV or chatting, very convenient.
2. Zhong Wan (Ren 12):Located in the middle of the abdomen, four inches above the navel. Gently press and knead with your palm for 3-5 minutes to relieve fullness in the stomach area. Massaging half an hour after meals while lying down is good for digestion.
3. Feng Long (Stomach 40):Located on the outer side of the lower leg, eight inches above the outer ankle tip. Massage for 3-5 minutes daily to transform phlegm and eliminate dampness, reducing phlegm-damp caused by Spleen-Stomach damp-heat. Massaging while soaking your feet at night enhances the effect.

Dietary Regulation

1. Eat More Heat-Clearing and Damp-Eliminating Foods: Job’s tears (Yi Yi Ren) can promote urination and eliminate dampness; cook them into porridge or soup. Red beans (Hong Dou) cooked with Job’s tears make a good red bean and Job’s tears porridge for dampness elimination; winter melon (Dong Gua) can clear heat and promote urination, suitable for stir-frying or soup. Incorporate these ingredients into your meals.
2. Avoid:Spicy, greasy, and overly sweet foods can generate dampness and heat, increasing the burden on the Spleen-Stomach, such as chili, fatty meat, and cake, so try to eat less.
3. 

Living Habits

1. Environment:Keep your living environment dry, open windows for ventilation, and use a dehumidifier when it’s humid to avoid worsening dampness.
2. Exercise:Daily jogging, brisk walking, or simple yoga to induce slight sweating helps eliminate dampness. Taking some time each day to be active is good for your health.

3. Sleep Schedule: Try to sleep before 11 PM to avoid staying up late, allowing the Spleen-Stomach to rest well.

Everyone, many chronic diseases in our bodies require long-term regulation. As long as we love and believe in Traditional Chinese Medicine and persistently follow these methods, our bodies can surely be well-regulated. I hope everyone can be healthy and enjoy a wonderful life!