Can Traditional Chinese Medicine Help Reduce Enlarged Tongue and Moisture?

Q: Can Traditional Chinese Medicine Help Reduce Enlarged Tongue and Moisture?

Dear JS： Your concern is about macroglossia (with dental indentations). <br>You mentioned that from the perspective of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), it is believed to be due to excessive internal dampness. <br>In TCM, a swollen tongue with teeth marks may be associated with

Enlarged tongue with indentations?

Hello, Dr.
Chang.
I have a swollen tongue (with indentations from my teeth).
From the perspective of Traditional Chinese Medicine, it is said to be due to excessive dampness in the body.
I have seen an ENT specialist who mentioned that my tongue root is not particularly thick, but my tongue does frequently press against the soft palate, causing difficulty in inhalation and complete obstruction during exhalation, forcing me to breathe through my mouth.
Aside from surgery, can the soft tissue of the tongue be reduced through herbal medicine? If the dampness in the body is eliminated, will the tongue shrink?

JS, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/01/13

Dr. Zhang Weidong reply Traditional Chinese Medicine

Dear JS: Your concern is about macroglossia (with dental indentations).
You mentioned that from the perspective of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), it is believed to be due to excessive internal dampness.
In TCM, a swollen tongue with teeth marks may be associated with Qi deficiency, Yang deficiency, or Spleen deficiency.
Furthermore, tongue diagnosis is only one part of the four diagnostic methods and should not be used as an independent basis for judgment.
Additionally, there have been clinical cases where macroglossia has normalized after a period of constitutional treatment, although these cases are rare.
I believe your issue may be related to the inconvenience caused by mouth breathing.
In Western medicine, this is often assessed through anatomical structures, with surgery being a common treatment approach.
In TCM, considering your long-term nasal congestion and mouth breathing symptoms, it may be related to Kidney Yang deficiency.
I suggest you engage in more physical activity and patiently adjust your condition over time.
Wishing you good health.
Zhang Weidong, Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Changhua Hospital.

Reply Date: 2015/01/13

More Info

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offers a holistic approach to health, focusing on the balance of bodily systems and the elimination of excess moisture or "dampness" that can lead to various health issues, including an enlarged tongue. An enlarged tongue, particularly one with indentations or "tooth marks," is often interpreted in TCM as a sign of excess dampness in the body. This condition can lead to various symptoms, including difficulty breathing, as you described, due to the tongue's size affecting the airway.

In TCM, the concept of dampness is associated with various factors, including diet, lifestyle, and environmental influences. Foods that are overly rich, greasy, or sweet can contribute to dampness accumulation. Therefore, dietary modifications are often recommended alongside herbal treatments. For instance, incorporating foods that are known to "dry dampness," such as barley, adzuki beans, and certain vegetables, can be beneficial.

Herbal remedies in TCM can also play a significant role in addressing dampness. Formulas such as Ping Wei San (平胃散) are commonly used to transform dampness and improve digestive function. This formula contains herbs like Atractylodes (白术) and Poria (茯苓), which help to strengthen the spleen and promote the elimination of excess moisture from the body. Another formula, San Ren Tang (三仁汤), is used to clear dampness and heat, which may also be beneficial in your case.

Acupuncture is another TCM modality that can help in reducing dampness and improving overall health. Specific acupuncture points can be targeted to strengthen the spleen, promote fluid metabolism, and alleviate symptoms associated with an enlarged tongue. Points such as Spleen 6 (SP6) and Spleen 9 (SP9) are often used to address issues related to dampness.

As for the question of whether reducing internal dampness can lead to a decrease in tongue size, the answer is generally yes. By addressing the root cause of dampness through dietary changes, herbal remedies, and acupuncture, it is possible to see improvements in tongue size and overall oral health. However, it is important to note that individual responses to treatment can vary, and it may take time to see significant changes.

In your case, it would be advisable to consult with a qualified TCM practitioner who can conduct a thorough assessment of your condition. They can provide a personalized treatment plan that includes dietary recommendations, herbal formulas, and acupuncture tailored to your specific needs. Additionally, they can monitor your progress and make adjustments to your treatment as necessary.

In summary, TCM can indeed help reduce an enlarged tongue and moisture by addressing the underlying dampness in the body. Through a combination of dietary changes, herbal medicine, and acupuncture, you may find relief from your symptoms and improvements in your overall health. It is essential to approach this treatment holistically and under the guidance of a qualified practitioner to achieve the best results.

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