Copious Sputumaccording to TCM

What is copious sputum?

Copious sputum, also known as abundant sputum, excessive phlegm, or profuse phlegm, refers to the excessive production of mucus in the respiratory tract. This condition is characterized by frequent expectoration, often accompanied by coughing and wheezing. The presence of copious sputum can be a sign of underlying respiratory issues, such as chronic bronchitis, asthma, or infections. Managing copious sputum typically involves addressing the root cause and employing treatments to reduce mucus production and improve respiratory function.

How does TCM view copious sputum?

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), copious sputum is seen as a symptom of deeper imbalances within the body. Unlike Western medicine, which often treats the symptom directly, TCM focuses on identifying and addressing the underlying pattern of disharmony causing the phlegm. Various patterns, such as Wind, Dampness, or Phlegm, can lead to excessive mucus production. Accurate diagnosis of the specific pattern is crucial for effective treatment, as different patterns require different therapeutic approaches.

Root Causes of Copious Sputum in TCM

One common TCM pattern associated with copious sputum is Wind-Phlegm. This pattern is characterized by symptoms such as dizziness, a stifling sensation in the chest, aphasia, and noisy breathing. Wind-Phlegm can be caused by external wind invading the body and transforming into phlegm due to underlying internal imbalances.

Another relevant pattern is Turbid Phlegm Blocks Orifices, which manifests with symptoms like excessive phlegm, loss of consciousness, shortness of breath, and a pale face. This pattern often results from internal dampness and phlegm obstructing the body's orifices, leading to more severe symptoms. Understanding these patterns is essential for tailoring treatments that address the root causes of copious sputum in TCM.

Explore below more details about what might cause Copious sputum according to TCM.

  • By Syndrome
  • By Organ
  • Lung
  • Triple Burner
Detailed description of the cause

Phlegm

In TCM "Phlegm" as a pattern of disharmony is a complex concept that extends beyond the physical manifestation of mucus. It represents a pathological factor that can disrupt the flow of Qi (vital energy) and blood, leading to various health issues. Phlegm in TCM is seen as a sticky, turbid substance arising from the body's inability to metabolize fluids properly, often due to a dysfunction of the spleen. It's not only associated with respiratory problems like cough and congestion but also with systemic issues. Symptoms can include a feeling of heaviness, mental cloudiness, dizziness, and in some cases, the formation of lumps or masses. Phlegm can even be "invisible," contributing to emotional disturbances like depression or stress. ... see more

Phlegm Patterns That Can Lead to Copious Sputum

Common Symptoms: Profuse White Sputum Dizziness Nausea Stifling Sensation In The Chest Bronchial Asthma Emphysema Peptic Ulcer Feeling Of Heaviness

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Wind-Phlegm Copious sputum, Coughing of phlegm, Dizziness, Stifling sensation in the chest, Aphasia, Coughing and wheezing with copious sputum, Noisy breathing, Limb numbness... see more Ban Xia Bai Zhu Tian Ma Tang
Turbid Phlegm Blocks Orifices Excessive phlegm, Coma, Loss of consciousness, Clenching of teeth, Shortness of breath, Pale face, Copious sputum, Drooling... see more Tong Guan San
Phlegm-Fluids above the diaphragm Coughing of copious thin and white sputum, Profuse white sputum, Coughing, Asthma, Edema, Stifling sensation in the chest, Dizziness Xiao Qing Long Tang | Ling Gan Wu Wei Jiang Xin Tang
Phlegm-Fluids in the limbs Coughing of copious thin and white sputum, Coughing with copious white sputum, Feeling of heaviness, Muscle pain, Lack of sweating, Absence of thirst, Profuse white sputum, Swollen limbs, Urinary dysfunction... see more Xiao Qing Long Tang | Da Qing Long Tang
Damp-Phlegm Profuse white sputum, Focal distention of the chest, Upper abdominal focal distention, Nausea, Sticky taste in the mouth, Absence of thirst, Obesity, Swollen limbs, Abdominal fat... see more Er Chen Tang | Xiang Sha Liu Jun Zi Tang | Shen Qi Wan
Damp-Phlegm in the Lungs Profuse white sputum, Coughing, Pale face, Sputum, Stifling sensation in the chest, Shortness of breath, Discomfort when lying down, Wheezing, Nausea, Feeling of heaviness, Dizziness, Asthma, Chest distension... see more Er Chen Tang
Phlegm clogging the Lungs with Qi Stagnation Coughing and wheezing with copious sputum, Focal distention of the chest, Lack of appetite, Dyspepsia, Chronic bronchitis, Bronchial asthma, Emphysema, Childhood asthma, Diaphragm pain... see more San Zi Yang Qin Tang
Phlegm-Dampness in the Middle-Burner Coughing of copious thin and white sputum, Nausea, Vomit, Tight feeling in chest and stomach, Focal distention, Profuse white sputum, Anorexia, Peptic ulcer, Chronic gastritis, Acid reflux, Abdominal pain... see more Liu Jun Zi Tang
Damp-Cold Phlegm Coughing with copious white sputum, Nausea, Vomit, Tight feeling in chest and stomach, Palpitations, Dizziness, Focal distention, Profuse white sputum, Upper respiratory tract infections, Chronic bronchitis, Emphysema... see more Er Chen Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Dampness

"Dampness" in TCM is a concept that describes a pattern of disharmony where the body accumulates excess moisture. Imagine the heavy, sticky feeling you get on a very humid day; that's similar to what dampness feels like internally. It can manifest as a sense of heaviness, bloating, sluggishness, or even a foggy mind. This condition is often thought to arise from environmental factors like living in a damp place, dietary habits that promote moisture in the body, or internal imbalances that hinder the body's ability to process fluids properly. In TCM, dampness can obstruct the normal flow of energy and fluids in the body, leading to various symptoms.... see more

Dampness Patterns That Can Lead to Copious Sputum

Common Symptoms: Nausea Profuse White Sputum Vomit Tight Feeling In Chest And Stomach Focal Distention Peptic Ulcer Chronic Gastritis Dizziness

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Damp-Phlegm Profuse white sputum, Focal distention of the chest, Upper abdominal focal distention, Nausea, Sticky taste in the mouth, Absence of thirst, Obesity, Swollen limbs, Abdominal fat... see more Er Chen Tang | Xiang Sha Liu Jun Zi Tang | Shen Qi Wan
Damp-Phlegm in the Lungs Profuse white sputum, Coughing, Pale face, Sputum, Stifling sensation in the chest, Shortness of breath, Discomfort when lying down, Wheezing, Nausea, Feeling of heaviness, Dizziness, Asthma, Chest distension... see more Er Chen Tang
Phlegm-Dampness in the Middle-Burner Coughing of copious thin and white sputum, Nausea, Vomit, Tight feeling in chest and stomach, Focal distention, Profuse white sputum, Anorexia, Peptic ulcer, Chronic gastritis, Acid reflux, Abdominal pain... see more Liu Jun Zi Tang
Damp-Cold Phlegm Coughing with copious white sputum, Nausea, Vomit, Tight feeling in chest and stomach, Palpitations, Dizziness, Focal distention, Profuse white sputum, Upper respiratory tract infections, Chronic bronchitis, Emphysema... see more Er Chen Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Qi Stagnation

Qi Stagnation in TCM is like having a traffic jam in your body's energy system. Qi, the vital life force that flows through your body, is supposed to move smoothly to maintain health and balance. But with Qi Stagnation, this flow gets blocked or slowed down, like cars stuck on a highway. This can lead to symptoms like feeling stressed, emotional mood swings, and physical discomfort, often described as a feeling of fullness or tightness, especially in the chest or abdomen. It's as though the body's internal energy circulation is disrupted, causing various issues. TCM sees this as an energy flow problem, different from modern medicine's focus on specific physiological processes.... see more

Qi Stagnation Patterns That Can Lead to Copious Sputum

Common Symptoms: Coughing And Wheezing With Copious Sputum Lack Of Appetite Focal Distention Of The Chest Dyspepsia Chronic Bronchitis Bronchial Asthma Emphysema Childhood Asthma

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Qi Stagnation Mild coughing with copious sputum, General fullness, Moving pain, Depression, Irritability, Mood swings, Sighing Yue Ju Wan
Phlegm clogging the Lungs with Qi Stagnation Coughing and wheezing with copious sputum, Focal distention of the chest, Lack of appetite, Dyspepsia, Chronic bronchitis, Bronchial asthma, Emphysema, Childhood asthma, Diaphragm pain... see more San Zi Yang Qin Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Wind

In TCM "Wind" is a concept that represents a pattern of disharmony, often characterized by its sudden and unpredictable nature, much like a gusty wind changing direction without warning. This pattern is associated with symptoms that come and go quickly or move around the body, such as itching, tremors, or even certain types of pain. Wind is considered to be a primary cause of illnesses that have these rapidly changing characteristics. In TCM, external Wind often refers to illnesses that start suddenly, like the common cold, believed to be caused by external pathogenic factors like climatic changes. On the other hand, internal Wind can be linked to internal imbalances and can manifest in conditions like dizziness or spasms. ... see more

Wind Patterns That Can Lead to Copious Sputum

Common Symptoms: Coughing And Wheezing With Copious Sputum Headaches Dizziness Stifling Sensation In The Chest Aphasia Noisy Breathing Limb Numbness Itchy Ears

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Wind-Phlegm Copious sputum, Coughing of phlegm, Dizziness, Stifling sensation in the chest, Aphasia, Coughing and wheezing with copious sputum, Noisy breathing, Limb numbness... see more Ban Xia Bai Zhu Tian Ma Tang
Wind-Cold invading the Lungs Coughing and wheezing with copious sputum, Aversion to cold, Fever, Itchy throat, Shortness of breath, Congested nose, Nasal discharge, Sneezing, Headaches, Body pain, White and watery sputum... see more Ma Huang Tang | Ge Gen Tang | Xin Yi San | Zhi Sou San
Detailed description of the cause

Cold

In TCM "Cold" as a pattern of disharmony refers to a specific type of imbalance within the body's systems, often linked to a deficiency or weakness. It's not about feeling physically cold or having a common cold, but rather a metaphorical description of certain symptoms and underlying conditions. When a TCM practitioner says someone suffers from "Cold," it usually implies that the body's Yang energy, which is warm and active, is insufficient or overpowered by Yin energy, which is cool and passive. Symptoms of Cold in TCM can include a general feeling of coldness, cold limbs, pale complexion, low energy, slow metabolism, and a preference for warmth. ... see more

Cold Patterns That Can Lead to Copious Sputum

Common Symptoms: Aversion To Cold Fever Itchy Throat Shortness Of Breath Congested Nose Nasal Discharge Sneezing Headaches

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Wind-Cold invading the Lungs Coughing and wheezing with copious sputum, Aversion to cold, Fever, Itchy throat, Shortness of breath, Congested nose, Nasal discharge, Sneezing, Headaches, Body pain, White and watery sputum... see more Ma Huang Tang | Ge Gen Tang | Xin Yi San | Zhi Sou San
Damp-Cold Phlegm Coughing with copious white sputum, Nausea, Vomit, Tight feeling in chest and stomach, Palpitations, Dizziness, Focal distention, Profuse white sputum, Upper respiratory tract infections, Chronic bronchitis, Emphysema... see more Er Chen Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Yang Deficiency

Yang deficiency in TCM refers to a state where the body's Yang energy, which is responsible for warmth, activity, and function, is weakened or diminished. This pattern of disharmony often arises from chronic illness, aging, or inherent constitutional weakness. Symptoms of Yang deficiency are typically associated with cold and sluggishness, such as a feeling of coldness, cold extremities, pale complexion, low energy or fatigue, and a desire for warmth. Digestive issues like poor appetite, loose stools, and water retention can also be indicative of Yang deficiency.... see more

Yang Deficiency Patterns That Can Lead to Copious Sputum

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Lung Yang Deficiency Coughing with copious clear thin sputum, Coughing and wheezing with copious sputum, Cold extremities, Spontaneous sweat, Frequent colds or flu, Pale face, Generalized fatigue, Shortness of breath, Absence of thirst, Wheezing, Weak voice... see more Gan Cao Gan Jiang Tang | Si Jun Zi Tang | Sheng Mai San
Detailed description of the cause

Lung

In TCM the Lungs are seen as the organ responsible for controlling Qi and respiration, as well as being a key part of the body's defensive system. They are thought to maintain the balance and flow of air and moisture, and are closely linked to the skin and hair. When the Lungs are imbalanced or malfunctioning in TCM, it can lead to respiratory issues like coughing or asthma, a weakened immune system, dry skin, and emotional disturbances such as sadness or grief. These symptoms are believed to arise from disruptions in the Lungs' ability to regulate Qi and protect the body, highlighting their central role in maintaining overall health and well-being.... see more

Lung Patterns That Can Lead to Copious Sputum

Common Symptoms: Coughing And Wheezing With Copious Sputum Shortness Of Breath Lack Of Appetite Pale Face Wheezing Focal Distention Of The Chest Dyspepsia Chronic Bronchitis

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Wind-Cold invading the Lungs Coughing and wheezing with copious sputum, Aversion to cold, Fever, Itchy throat, Shortness of breath, Congested nose, Nasal discharge, Sneezing, Headaches, Body pain, White and watery sputum... see more Ma Huang Tang | Ge Gen Tang | Xin Yi San | Zhi Sou San
Lung Yang Deficiency Coughing with copious clear thin sputum, Coughing and wheezing with copious sputum, Cold extremities, Spontaneous sweat, Frequent colds or flu, Pale face, Generalized fatigue, Shortness of breath, Absence of thirst, Wheezing, Weak voice... see more Gan Cao Gan Jiang Tang | Si Jun Zi Tang | Sheng Mai San
Damp-Phlegm in the Lungs Profuse white sputum, Coughing, Pale face, Sputum, Stifling sensation in the chest, Shortness of breath, Discomfort when lying down, Wheezing, Nausea, Feeling of heaviness, Dizziness, Asthma, Chest distension... see more Er Chen Tang
Phlegm clogging the Lungs with Qi Stagnation Coughing and wheezing with copious sputum, Focal distention of the chest, Lack of appetite, Dyspepsia, Chronic bronchitis, Bronchial asthma, Emphysema, Childhood asthma, Diaphragm pain... see more San Zi Yang Qin Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Triple Burner

In TCM the Triple Burner (or San Jiao) is a unique concept rather than a physical organ. It's seen as a system that oversees the flow and balance of Qi and bodily fluids across three regions of the body: the upper (respiratory and cardiovascular systems), middle (digestive system), and lower (urinary and reproductive systems). The Triple Burner facilitates the interaction between these systems, ensuring harmony in bodily functions. When it malfunctions in TCM, it can lead to a variety of symptoms depending on the affected region, such as respiratory issues, digestive problems, or urinary and reproductive disorders. The malfunction can also manifest as general imbalances in energy flow, temperature regulation, and fluid metabolism, reflecting the Triple Burner's role as a coordinator of the body's various processes and its importance in maintaining overall balance and health.... see more

Triple Burner Patterns That Can Lead to Copious Sputum

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Phlegm-Dampness in the Middle-Burner Coughing of copious thin and white sputum, Nausea, Vomit, Tight feeling in chest and stomach, Focal distention, Profuse white sputum, Anorexia, Peptic ulcer, Chronic gastritis, Acid reflux, Abdominal pain... see more Liu Jun Zi Tang

TCM Herbal Formulas for Copious Sputum

TCM treatment for copious sputum involves using specific formulas and herbs tailored to the patient’s underlying pattern. For Wind-Phlegm, a commonly used formula is Ban Xia Bai Zhu Tian Ma Tang. This formula includes Crow-Dipper Rhizomes (Ban Xia), which helps transform phlegm and extinguish wind.

For Turbid Phlegm Blocks Orifices, Tong Guan San is recommended. This formula includes Chinese Honeylocust Abnormal Fruits (Zhu Ya Zao), which helps warm and open sensory orifices. The choice of formula depends on the specific pattern diagnosed, highlighting the personalized nature of TCM treatments.

Explore below some TCM herbal formulas used to address copious sputum, organized by cause and by formula type.

  • By Cause
  • By Formula Type
  • Formulas that clear wind-Cold
  • Formulas that tonify qi
  • Formulas that transform phlegm and extinguish wind
  • Formulas that warm and transform phlegm-Cold
  • Formulas that warm and open sensory orifices
  • Formulas that dredge and disperse external wind
  • Formulas that warm interior cold
  • Formulas that promote qi movement
  • Formulas that dry dampness and transform phlegm
  • Formulas that dispel phlegm
  • Formulas that warm yang and tonify

All Formulas Recommended for Copious Sputum Caused by Phlegm

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Er Chen Tang Damp-Cold Phlegm, Damp-Phlegm, Damp-Phlegm in the Lungs
Xiao Qing Long Tang Phlegm-Fluids above the diaphragm, Phlegm-Fluids in the limbs
Ban Xia Bai Zhu Tian Ma Tang Wind-Phlegm
Tong Guan San Turbid Phlegm Blocks Orifices
San Zi Yang Qin Tang Phlegm clogging the Lungs with Qi Stagnation
Liu Jun Zi Tang Phlegm-Dampness in the Middle-Burner
Ling Gan Wu Wei Jiang Xin Tang Phlegm-Fluids above the diaphragm
Da Qing Long Tang Phlegm-Fluids in the limbs
Xiang Sha Liu Jun Zi Tang Damp-Phlegm
Shen Qi Wan Damp-Phlegm

All Formulas Recommended for Copious Sputum Caused by Dampness

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Er Chen Tang Damp-Cold Phlegm, Damp-Phlegm, Damp-Phlegm in the Lungs
Liu Jun Zi Tang Phlegm-Dampness in the Middle-Burner
Xiang Sha Liu Jun Zi Tang Damp-Phlegm
Shen Qi Wan Damp-Phlegm

All Formulas Recommended for Copious Sputum Caused by Qi Stagnation

Formula Patterns Suitable For
San Zi Yang Qin Tang Phlegm clogging the Lungs with Qi Stagnation
Yue Ju Wan Qi Stagnation

All Formulas Recommended for Copious Sputum Caused by Wind

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Ban Xia Bai Zhu Tian Ma Tang Wind-Phlegm
Ma Huang Tang Wind-Cold invading the Lungs
Ge Gen Tang Wind-Cold invading the Lungs
Xin Yi San Wind-Cold invading the Lungs
Zhi Sou San Wind-Cold invading the Lungs

All Formulas Recommended for Copious Sputum Caused by Cold

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Er Chen Tang Damp-Cold Phlegm
Ma Huang Tang Wind-Cold invading the Lungs
Ge Gen Tang Wind-Cold invading the Lungs
Xin Yi San Wind-Cold invading the Lungs
Zhi Sou San Wind-Cold invading the Lungs

All Formulas Recommended for Copious Sputum Caused by Yang Deficiency

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Gan Cao Gan Jiang Tang Lung Yang Deficiency
Si Jun Zi Tang Lung Yang Deficiency
Sheng Mai San Lung Yang Deficiency

All "formulas that clear wind-Cold" recommended for copious sputum

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Xiao Qing Long Tang Phlegm-Fluids above the diaphragm, Phlegm-Fluids in the limbs
Ma Huang Tang Wind-Cold invading the Lungs
Ge Gen Tang Wind-Cold invading the Lungs
Da Qing Long Tang Phlegm-Fluids in the limbs

All "formulas that tonify qi" recommended for copious sputum

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Si Jun Zi Tang Lung Yang Deficiency
Sheng Mai San Lung Yang Deficiency
Liu Jun Zi Tang Phlegm-Dampness in the Middle-Burner

All "formulas that transform phlegm and extinguish wind" recommended for copious sputum

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Ban Xia Bai Zhu Tian Ma Tang Wind-Phlegm
Zhi Sou San Wind-Cold invading the Lungs

All "formulas that warm and transform phlegm-Cold" recommended for copious sputum

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
San Zi Yang Qin Tang Phlegm clogging the Lungs with Qi Stagnation
Ling Gan Wu Wei Jiang Xin Tang Phlegm-Fluids above the diaphragm

Acupoints for Copious Sputum

In TCM, specific acupoints are used to treat copious sputum by addressing the underlying disharmony. Feishu (BL-13) on the Bladder Channel is one such point, located 1.5 cun lateral to the lower border of the spinous process of the 3rd thoracic vertebra. It helps tonify Lung Qi, nourish Lung Yin, and expel Exterior Wind.

Another important acupoint is Fenglong (ST-40) on the Stomach Channel, located midway between Dubi (ST-35) and Jiexi (ST-41). This point resolves Dampness and Phlegm and subdues Rebellious Qi. Taiyuan (LU-9) on the Lung Channel, found at the wrist crease, clears Phlegm and tonifies Lung Qi and Yin. Lastly, Zhourong (SP-20) on the Spleen Channel, in the 2nd intercostal space, regulates Qi and opens the chest, providing relief from copious sputum.

Explore below some acupoints used to address copious sputum, organized by meridian.

  • By Meridian
  • Lung Channel
  • Bladder Channel
  • Stomach Channel
  • Spleen Channel
  • Gall Bladder Channel
  • Pericardium Channel
  • Triple Burner Channel
Zhongfu LU-1

Zhongfu LU-1

On the lateral aspect of the chest, in the 1st intercostal space, 6 cun lateral to the midline, 1 cun inferior to Yunmen LU-2. Below the acromial extremity of the clavicle, slightly medial to the lower border of the coracoid process.

Taiyuan LU-9

Taiyuan LU-9

At the wrist crease (wrist joint space), in the depression on the radial aspect of the radial artery and ulnar to the tendon of the abductor pollicis longus muscle.

Feishu BL-13

Feishu BL-13

1.5 cun lateral to the lower border of the spinous process of the 3rd thoracic vertebra (T3).

Fenglong ST-40

Fenglong ST-40

Midway between Dubi ST-35 and Jiexi ST-41, two middle finger-width from the anterior crest of the tibia, or one middle finger-width from Tiaokou ST-38.

Zhourong SP-20

Zhourong SP-20

In the 2nd intercostal space, 6 cun lateral to the anterior midline.

Fubai GB-10

Fubai GB-10

Posterior and superior to the mastoid process, at the junction of the upper third and the two lower thirds of the curved line connecting Tianchong GB-9 and Wangu GB-12.

Tianchi P-1

Tianchi P-1

1 cun lateral to the nipple, in the 4th intercostal space.

Tianjing TB-10

Tianjing TB-10

When the elbow is flexed, Tianjing TB-10 is in the depression about 1 cun superior to the olecranon.