Salty Taste: Possible Causes and Traditional Remedies

Q: Salty Taste: Possible Causes and Traditional Remedies

Hello, Ms. <br>Chen： In Traditional Chinese Medicine, a salty taste in the mouth is categorized under kidney deficiency, which can generally be divided into kidney yin deficiency or kidney yang deficiency. <br>I won't elaborate further on this. <br>If you have only experienced th

Feeling salty in the mouth?

Hello Doctor: Recently, I have been experiencing a salty taste in my mouth, and the saliva I produce also feels salty.
I have consulted with a dentist and a family physician, and I underwent routine blood tests, all of which came back normal.
However, there has been no resolution.
Could you please explain what might be causing this? Can traditional Chinese medicine help with this condition?

Miss Chen, 50~59 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/01/20

Dr. Zhang Weidong reply Traditional Chinese Medicine

Hello, Ms.
Chen: In Traditional Chinese Medicine, a salty taste in the mouth is categorized under kidney deficiency, which can generally be divided into kidney yin deficiency or kidney yang deficiency.
I won't elaborate further on this.
If you have only experienced the salty taste since the onset of winter, it may be due to poor circulation caused by the cold weather, leading to a weakened renal function in metabolizing salt.
I recommend engaging in more physical activity when the weather is warmer, drinking warm water frequently in small amounts, and consuming fresh vegetables to improve the situation.
If the salty taste is due to fatigue and stress causing liver and kidney weakness, it is also important to ensure adequate relaxation, rest, and nutrition.
If there is no improvement after 1-2 weeks of these measures, I suggest consulting a Traditional Chinese Medicine practitioner for further treatment.
Additionally, there is a condition where changes in taste are caused by neurological factors, which is relatively rare in clinical practice.
If the above methods do not yield any improvement, you may want to consult a neurologist for evaluation.
I hope this information is helpful to you.
Wishing you peace and health, Zhang Wei-Dong, Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Changhua Hospital.

Reply Date: 2016/01/20

More Info

Dear Patient,
Thank you for your inquiry regarding the unusual salty taste you are experiencing. This condition, often referred to as "salty taste perception," can be quite perplexing and may stem from various underlying causes. Understanding these causes is essential for determining the appropriate remedies, including traditional options.

Possible Causes of Salty Taste
1. Dehydration: One of the most common reasons for a salty taste in the mouth is dehydration. When the body is dehydrated, saliva can become more concentrated, leading to a salty flavor. Ensuring adequate hydration by drinking plenty of water throughout the day can help alleviate this symptom.

2. Dietary Factors: A diet high in sodium can contribute to a salty taste. Processed foods, salty snacks, and certain condiments can increase sodium levels in the body. If you have recently changed your diet or consumed more salty foods, this could be a contributing factor.

3. Medications: Certain medications can alter taste perception. For instance, some antihistamines, antidepressants, and blood pressure medications may lead to a salty or metallic taste. If you are on any medications, it may be worth discussing this with your healthcare provider.

4. Oral Health Issues: Conditions affecting oral health, such as gum disease, infections, or dry mouth (xerostomia), can also lead to changes in taste. Saliva plays a crucial role in taste perception, and any condition that affects saliva production can lead to a salty taste.

5. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): GERD can cause stomach acid to flow back into the esophagus, leading to a salty or sour taste in the mouth. If you experience other symptoms such as heartburn or regurgitation, it may be worth exploring this possibility further.

6. Neurological Conditions: In rare cases, neurological conditions can affect taste perception. If other symptoms accompany the salty taste, such as changes in smell or other sensory perceptions, a more thorough neurological evaluation may be necessary.

Traditional Remedies
In terms of traditional remedies, there are several approaches you might consider:
1. Herbal Teas: Herbal teas such as chamomile or peppermint can help soothe the digestive system and may alleviate symptoms associated with GERD or digestive discomfort.

2. Ginger: Ginger is known for its anti-nausea properties and can help improve digestion. Consuming ginger tea or incorporating fresh ginger into your meals may be beneficial.

3. Acupuncture: Traditional Chinese medicine often employs acupuncture to balance the body's energy and address taste disorders. Consulting with a licensed acupuncturist may provide relief.

4. Dietary Adjustments: Reducing sodium intake and focusing on a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help improve overall health and potentially alleviate the salty taste.

5. Hydration: As mentioned earlier, staying well-hydrated is crucial. Drinking water regularly and incorporating hydrating foods like cucumbers and watermelon can help.

6. Mouth Rinses: Using a saline mouth rinse or a mixture of baking soda and water may help neutralize the salty taste temporarily.

Conclusion
While the salty taste you are experiencing can be concerning, it is often manageable with lifestyle changes and traditional remedies. However, if the symptom persists or worsens, it is essential to follow up with your healthcare provider for further evaluation. They may recommend additional tests or referrals to specialists, such as an ENT or a gastroenterologist, to rule out any underlying conditions.

Please take care of yourself, and I hope you find relief soon.

Best Regards,
Doctor Q&A Teams

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