Recently, many students have privately messaged me asking why the color of the tongue coating varies significantly between morning and afternoon. Some have also noted that the tongue appears pointed when first extended, but becomes broader upon further extension. What could be the reason for this? When observing the tongue, which color should we use as a standard? Today, I would like to share a section specifically addressing this. First, let’s discuss the issue of the tongue coating color differing between morning and afternoon. Generally speaking, in the morning right after waking up, the color of the tongue coating and the tongue body tends to be lighter. After noon, the color tends to be redder. This brings us to the question of which time we should use as a standard. The most standard time to observe the tongue is after waking up, before breakfast. However, it should not be immediately after getting out of bed. It is best to brush your teeth, wash your face, and walk around outside for about half an hour before taking a photo of the tongue. Below are two comparison images of the tongue appearance right after waking up and at noon.
Secondly, let’s discuss the situation where the tongue appears pointed (triangular tongue) when first extended, but becomes broader upon further extension. What should we use as a standard in this case? When we talk about liver qi stagnation, we have previously shared this type of tongue appearance, which is a typical representation of liver qi stagnation. The liver (Gan) wood counteracts the spleen (Pi) earth, and when liver qi is stagnant, it inhibits the function of the spleen and stomach. The spleen is responsible for the transformation and transportation of dampness. If the spleen and stomach function is weak, the ability to transform and transport dampness decreases, leading to a broader tongue body. Therefore, we see the tongue appearing pointed (triangular tongue) when first extended, and then broadening upon further extension. However, we still primarily consider the triangular tongue. When adjusting, it is essential to also support the spleen and stomach and promote the resolution of dampness. The tongue appearances are as follows:
