In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), there is a saying that “observing tongue quality can discern the deficiency or excess of the organs.” The tongue serves as a direct “window” to assess the body’s health. By examining the tongue’s quality and coating, we can evaluate the condition of the internal organs. Today, the doctor will teach you how to discern the health of the tongue.
Kidney Yang Deficiency – Teeth Marked White Tongue
This type of tongue is often relatively large, with a pale white color and a moist appearance. The tongue coating is thick and white, and there are distinct teeth marks along the edges. This condition is caused by insufficient Kidney Yang.
Yang Qi has the function of “warming and promoting.” When Kidney Yang is insufficient, it leads to the inability to expel fluids, causing dampness to accumulate in the body, resulting in this tongue appearance. It is also common to experience edema. “The lower back is the residence of the kidneys;” with insufficient Kidney Yang, the lower back often feels sore, cold, and fatigued. For this condition, we can use Right Return Pill (You Gui Wan) to tonify Kidney Yang.
Heart-Kidney Disharmony – Cracked Red Tongue
This type of tongue is relatively small, with a reddish color and many cracks. The tongue coating is minimal, resembling a “mirror,” and the edges of the tongue appear dark. This condition is caused by Heart-Kidney disharmony. “The kidneys govern water, and the heart governs fire;” if Kidney Yin is insufficient, it cannot nourish Heart Fire, leading to the burning sensation on the tongue.
With insufficient Kidney Yin, it generates empty heat that ascends to the tongue, causing dryness and easily leading to oral ulcers. For this condition, we can refer to Left Return Pill (Zuo Gui Wan) to nourish Kidney Yin.
Kidney Collaterals Obstruction – Blood Stasis Tongue
This type of tongue appears dull and lacks luster, with petechiae and ecchymosis present. The veins underneath the tongue are purple and convoluted. This condition is caused by obstruction of the Kidney collaterals. “Qi moves blood; if Qi is deficient, blood will stagnate.” Blood circulation relies on the propulsion of Qi; if blood flow is obstructed, it leads to Kidney collateral obstruction. “Where there is obstruction, there is pain;” obstruction of the Kidney collaterals can lead to soreness and pain in the lower back and knees. For this condition, we can refer to Chai Hu Shu Gan San to promote Qi and invigorate blood circulation.
Disclaimer: The article ends here and is for educational reference only. If you experience any discomfort, please consult a professional doctor at a hospital for diagnosis and treatment. Do not self-diagnose or self-medicate. See you next time!