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Symptom family: Respiratory Secretions
Parent symptom: Sputum
Sub-symptom(s): Copious Thick Yellow Sputum Cough With Thin Yellow Sputum
Yellowish phlegm, also known as golden-colored sputum or yellow mucus, is a type of sputum that can indicate an underlying health condition, particularly when associated with respiratory issues. This symptom is characterized by the presence of yellow or golden-colored mucus that is often expelled through coughing. Yellowish phlegm can be accompanied by various sub-symptoms such as copious thick yellow sputum or a cough with thin yellow sputum. It is important to note that yellowish phlegm is a specific form of sputum, which in general refers to mucus expelled from the respiratory tract.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), yellowish phlegm is viewed through the lens of different patterns of disharmony within the body. Unlike Western medicine, which may attribute yellowish phlegm to bacterial or viral infections, TCM considers it a manifestation of internal imbalances.
These imbalances can result from various factors such as Heat, Wind, or Dampness affecting the body's organ systems. Identifying the correct pattern of disharmony is crucial for effective treatment, as the approach will vary depending on the underlying cause.
In TCM, yellowish phlegm is often linked to patterns involving Heat and Wind, which can present with symptoms such as yellow mucus, aversion to cold, fever, sneezing, coughing, nasal discharge, occipital stiffness, and excessive sweating. This pattern suggests an invasion of external wind combined with internal heat, leading to the production of yellowish phlegm.
Another pattern is Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs, characterized by symptoms like thick yellow sputum, cough, chest tightness, and a feeling of heat in the chest. This pattern indicates that internal heat has combined with phlegm, obstructing the lungs and causing yellowish phlegm.
Explore below more details about what might cause Yellowish phlegm according to TCM.
In TCM "Heat" signifies an excess of Yang energy, leading to an imbalance where heat predominates over the body's cool Yin aspects. This condition is metaphorically akin to an internal over-heating. Symptoms indicative of Heat can include feelings of warmth, fever, sweating, irritability, red face, thirst with a preference for cold drinks, and a rapid pulse. The tongue may appear red with a yellow coating. Unlike the common interpretation of heat in terms of temperature, in TCM, it represents a state of hyperactivity or inflammation in the body.... see more
Common Symptoms: Copious Thick Yellow Sputum Thirst Fever Coughing Shortness Of Breath Chronic Bronchitis Asthma Aversion To Cold
Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
---|---|---|
Wind-Heat | Yellow mucus, Aversion to cold, Fever, Sneezing, Coughing, Nasal discharge, Occipital stiffness, Occipital headache, Excessive sweating, Sore throat, Yellowish phlegm... see more | Yin Qiao San | Sang Ju Yin | Cong Chi Tang | Huo Ren Cong Shi Tang | Jing Jie Lian Qiao Tang | Zhu Ye Cheng Liu Tang | Xiao Feng San | Fang Feng Tong Sheng San | Bing Peng San | Pu Ji Xiao Du Yin |
Phlegm-Heat | Coughing and wheezing with copious thick and yellow sputum, Coughing of copious thick yellow sputum, Upper abdominal oppression, Mucous in feces, Depression | Ding Chuan Tang | Qing Qi Hua Tan Wan | Wen Dan Tang | Gun Tan Wan |
Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs | Coughing of copious thick yellow sputum, Coughing, Shortness of breath, Wheezing, Stifling sensation in the chest, Sputum, Feeling of heat, Thirst, Head and body heaviness, Dizziness, Copious thick yellow sputum... see more | Qing Qi Hua Tan Wan | Wen Dan Tang | Ma Xing Shi Gan Tang | Er Chen Tang | Qing Xin Li Ge Tang | Ren Shen Ge Jie San | Pi Pa Qing Fei Yin | Xiao Xian Xiong Tang |
Wind-Heat invading the Lungs | Coughing of copious thick yellow sputum, Aversion to cold, Fever, Coughing, Sore throat, Congested nose, Nasal discharge, Copious thick yellow sputum, Sneezing, Headaches, Body pain, Thirst, Tonsil swelling... see more | Yin Qiao San |
Lung Heat | Cough with thin yellow sputum, Feeling of heat, Thirst, High fever, Shortness of breath, Excessive sweating, Acne... see more | Qing Qi Hua Tan Wan | Ma Xing Shi Gan Tang | Pi Pa Qing Fei Yin | Xie Bai San | Huang Lian Jie Du Tang |
Wind-Cold invading the Interior with Phelgm-Heat | Coughing and wheezing with copious thick and yellow sputum, Shortness of breath, Copious thick yellow sputum, Chronic bronchitis, Asthma, Bronchiolitis... see more | Ding Chuan Tang |
Qi Stagnation in Gallbladder and Stomach with Phlegm Heat | Coughing of copious thick yellow sputum, Nausea or vomiting, Vertigo, Vivid dreaming, Palpitations, Anxiety, Excessive hunger, Focal distention of the chest, Bitter taste in the mouth, Slight thirst, Copious thick yellow sputum... see more | Wen Dan Tang |
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
Common Symptoms: Copious Thick Yellow Sputum Chronic Bronchitis Asthma Shortness Of Breath Depression Stifling Sensation In The Chest Chest Distension Pneumonia
Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
---|---|---|
Phlegm-Heat | Coughing and wheezing with copious thick and yellow sputum, Coughing of copious thick yellow sputum, Upper abdominal oppression, Mucous in feces, Depression | Ding Chuan Tang | Qing Qi Hua Tan Wan | Wen Dan Tang | Gun Tan Wan |
Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs | Coughing of copious thick yellow sputum, Coughing, Shortness of breath, Wheezing, Stifling sensation in the chest, Sputum, Feeling of heat, Thirst, Head and body heaviness, Dizziness, Copious thick yellow sputum... see more | Qing Qi Hua Tan Wan | Wen Dan Tang | Ma Xing Shi Gan Tang | Er Chen Tang | Qing Xin Li Ge Tang | Ren Shen Ge Jie San | Pi Pa Qing Fei Yin | Xiao Xian Xiong Tang |
Wind-Cold invading the Interior with Phelgm-Heat | Coughing and wheezing with copious thick and yellow sputum, Shortness of breath, Copious thick yellow sputum, Chronic bronchitis, Asthma, Bronchiolitis... see more | Ding Chuan Tang |
Qi Stagnation in Gallbladder and Stomach with Phlegm Heat | Coughing of copious thick yellow sputum, Nausea or vomiting, Vertigo, Vivid dreaming, Palpitations, Anxiety, Excessive hunger, Focal distention of the chest, Bitter taste in the mouth, Slight thirst, Copious thick yellow sputum... see more | Wen Dan Tang |
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
Common Symptoms: Aversion To Cold Fever Sneezing Coughing Nasal Discharge Sore Throat Headaches Congested Nose
Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
---|---|---|
Wind-Heat | Yellow mucus, Aversion to cold, Fever, Sneezing, Coughing, Nasal discharge, Occipital stiffness, Occipital headache, Excessive sweating, Sore throat, Yellowish phlegm... see more | Yin Qiao San | Sang Ju Yin | Cong Chi Tang | Huo Ren Cong Shi Tang | Jing Jie Lian Qiao Tang | Zhu Ye Cheng Liu Tang | Xiao Feng San | Fang Feng Tong Sheng San | Bing Peng San | Pu Ji Xiao Du Yin |
Wind-Heat invading the Lungs | Coughing of copious thick yellow sputum, Aversion to cold, Fever, Coughing, Sore throat, Congested nose, Nasal discharge, Copious thick yellow sputum, Sneezing, Headaches, Body pain, Thirst, Tonsil swelling... see more | Yin Qiao San |
Wind-Cold invading the Interior with Phelgm-Heat | Coughing and wheezing with copious thick and yellow sputum, Shortness of breath, Copious thick yellow sputum, Chronic bronchitis, Asthma, Bronchiolitis... see more | Ding Chuan Tang |
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
Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
---|---|---|
Qi Stagnation in Gallbladder and Stomach with Phlegm Heat | Coughing of copious thick yellow sputum, Nausea or vomiting, Vertigo, Vivid dreaming, Palpitations, Anxiety, Excessive hunger, Focal distention of the chest, Bitter taste in the mouth, Slight thirst, Copious thick yellow sputum... see more | Wen Dan Tang |
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
Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
---|---|---|
Wind-Cold invading the Interior with Phelgm-Heat | Coughing and wheezing with copious thick and yellow sputum, Shortness of breath, Copious thick yellow sputum, Chronic bronchitis, Asthma, Bronchiolitis... see more | Ding Chuan Tang |
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
Common Symptoms: Thirst Coughing Shortness Of Breath Feeling Of Heat Copious Thick Yellow Sputum Fever Acne Wheezing
Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
---|---|---|
Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs | Coughing of copious thick yellow sputum, Coughing, Shortness of breath, Wheezing, Stifling sensation in the chest, Sputum, Feeling of heat, Thirst, Head and body heaviness, Dizziness, Copious thick yellow sputum... see more | Qing Qi Hua Tan Wan | Wen Dan Tang | Ma Xing Shi Gan Tang | Er Chen Tang | Qing Xin Li Ge Tang | Ren Shen Ge Jie San | Pi Pa Qing Fei Yin | Xiao Xian Xiong Tang |
Wind-Heat invading the Lungs | Coughing of copious thick yellow sputum, Aversion to cold, Fever, Coughing, Sore throat, Congested nose, Nasal discharge, Copious thick yellow sputum, Sneezing, Headaches, Body pain, Thirst, Tonsil swelling... see more | Yin Qiao San |
Lung Heat | Cough with thin yellow sputum, Feeling of heat, Thirst, High fever, Shortness of breath, Excessive sweating, Acne... see more | Qing Qi Hua Tan Wan | Ma Xing Shi Gan Tang | Pi Pa Qing Fei Yin | Xie Bai San | Huang Lian Jie Du Tang |
In TCM the Gallbladder has a unique role in storing and excreting bile, but more importantly, it's seen as crucial for decision-making and courage. It's closely connected to the Liver, assisting in the smooth flow of Qi (vital energy) and supporting the Liver's role in maintaining emotional balance. When the Gallbladder malfunctions or is imbalanced in TCM, it can lead to physical symptoms like gallstones, jaundice, or a bitter taste in the mouth. There might also be digestive disturbances, particularly related to fat metabolism. On an emotional level, a Gallbladder disorder can manifest as indecisiveness, timidity, or a tendency to easily succumb to stress. These symptoms highlight the TCM view of the Gallbladder as integral to both physical processes and emotional resilience.... see more
Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
---|---|---|
Qi Stagnation in Gallbladder and Stomach with Phlegm Heat | Coughing of copious thick yellow sputum, Nausea or vomiting, Vertigo, Vivid dreaming, Palpitations, Anxiety, Excessive hunger, Focal distention of the chest, Bitter taste in the mouth, Slight thirst, Copious thick yellow sputum... see more | Wen Dan Tang |
In TCM the Stomach is regarded as the "sea of nourishment," pivotal for digesting food and transforming it into Qi and blood. It works closely with the Spleen to distribute these essential nutrients throughout the body. When the Stomach is out of balance or malfunctions in TCM, it often leads to digestive problems such as bloating, nausea, vomiting, poor appetite, or a feeling of fullness. There may also be issues like acid reflux or a sour taste in the mouth. Emotionally, an imbalanced Stomach can contribute to excessive worry and overthinking, reflecting the TCM belief that physical and emotional well-being are deeply interconnected.... see more
Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
---|---|---|
Qi Stagnation in Gallbladder and Stomach with Phlegm Heat | Coughing of copious thick yellow sputum, Nausea or vomiting, Vertigo, Vivid dreaming, Palpitations, Anxiety, Excessive hunger, Focal distention of the chest, Bitter taste in the mouth, Slight thirst, Copious thick yellow sputum... see more | Wen Dan Tang |
TCM offers various formulas and herbs to treat yellowish phlegm based on the identified pattern of disharmony. For the Wind-Heat pattern, formulas such as Yin Qiao San and Sang Ju Yin are commonly recommended. Yin Qiao San, which includes Honeysuckle Flowers (Jin Yin Hua), is known for its ability to clear heat and relieve toxicity. Sang Ju Yin, containing Mulberry Leaves (Sang Ye), is effective in clearing Wind-Heat and alleviating symptoms associated with yellowish phlegm.
For the Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs pattern, herbs like Scutellaria Root (Huang Qin) and Trichosanthes Fruit (Gua Lou) are often used to clear heat, resolve phlegm, and restore lung function. These treatments aim to address the root cause of the phlegm production, ensuring a comprehensive approach to alleviating yellowish phlegm.
Explore below some TCM herbal formulas used to address yellowish phlegm, organized by cause and by formula type.
Suitable for Heat patterns that may cause yellowish phlegm, such as Phlegm-Heat or Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs
Learn moreFormula | Patterns Suitable For |
---|---|
Qing Qi Hua Tan Wan | Phlegm-Heat, Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs, Lung Heat |
Wen Dan Tang | Phlegm-Heat, Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs, Qi Stagnation in Gallbladder and Stomach with Phlegm Heat... see more |
Yin Qiao San | Wind-Heat, Wind-Heat invading the Lungs |
Ding Chuan Tang | Wind-Cold invading the Interior with Phelgm-Heat, Phlegm-Heat |
Ma Xing Shi Gan Tang | Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs, Lung Heat |
Pi Pa Qing Fei Yin | Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs, Lung Heat |
Sang Ju Yin | Wind-Heat |
Cong Chi Tang | Wind-Heat |
Huo Ren Cong Shi Tang | Wind-Heat |
Jing Jie Lian Qiao Tang | Wind-Heat |
Zhu Ye Cheng Liu Tang | Wind-Heat |
Xiao Feng San | Wind-Heat |
Fang Feng Tong Sheng San | Wind-Heat |
Bing Peng San | Wind-Heat |
Pu Ji Xiao Du Yin | Wind-Heat |
Gun Tan Wan | Phlegm-Heat |
Er Chen Tang | Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs |
Qing Xin Li Ge Tang | Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs |
Ren Shen Ge Jie San | Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs |
Xiao Xian Xiong Tang | Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs |
Xie Bai San | Lung Heat |
Huang Lian Jie Du Tang | Lung Heat |
Suitable for Phlegm patterns that may cause yellowish phlegm, such as Phlegm-Heat or Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs
Learn moreFormula | Patterns Suitable For |
---|---|
Wen Dan Tang | Phlegm-Heat, Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs, Qi Stagnation in Gallbladder and Stomach with Phlegm Heat... see more |
Qing Qi Hua Tan Wan | Phlegm-Heat, Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs |
Ding Chuan Tang | Wind-Cold invading the Interior with Phelgm-Heat, Phlegm-Heat |
Ma Xing Shi Gan Tang | Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs |
Pi Pa Qing Fei Yin | Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs |
Gun Tan Wan | Phlegm-Heat |
Er Chen Tang | Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs |
Qing Xin Li Ge Tang | Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs |
Ren Shen Ge Jie San | Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs |
Xiao Xian Xiong Tang | Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs |
Suitable for Wind patterns that may cause yellowish phlegm, such as Wind-Heat or Wind-Heat invading the Lungs
Learn moreFormula | Patterns Suitable For |
---|---|
Yin Qiao San | Wind-Heat, Wind-Heat invading the Lungs |
Ding Chuan Tang | Wind-Cold invading the Interior with Phelgm-Heat |
Sang Ju Yin | Wind-Heat |
Cong Chi Tang | Wind-Heat |
Huo Ren Cong Shi Tang | Wind-Heat |
Jing Jie Lian Qiao Tang | Wind-Heat |
Zhu Ye Cheng Liu Tang | Wind-Heat |
Xiao Feng San | Wind-Heat |
Fang Feng Tong Sheng San | Wind-Heat |
Bing Peng San | Wind-Heat |
Pu Ji Xiao Du Yin | Wind-Heat |
Suitable for Qi Stagnation patterns that may cause yellowish phlegm, such as Qi Stagnation in Gallbladder and Stomach with Phlegm Heat
Learn moreSuitable for Cold patterns that may cause yellowish phlegm, such as Wind-Cold invading the Interior with Phelgm-Heat
Learn moreThese formulas are suitable for some yellowish phlegm-causing patterns like Phlegm-Heat or Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs.
One such formula is Qing Qi Hua Tan Wan, with arisaema with bile as a key herb.
Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.
Formula | Patterns Suitable For (if applicable) |
---|---|
Qing Qi Hua Tan Wan | Phlegm-Heat, Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs, Lung Heat |
Gun Tan Wan | Phlegm-Heat |
Xiao Xian Xiong Tang | Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs |
These formulas are suitable for some yellowish phlegm-causing patterns like Phlegm-Heat or Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs.
One such formula is Wen Dan Tang, with crow-dipper rhizome as a key herb.
Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.
Formula | Patterns Suitable For (if applicable) |
---|---|
Wen Dan Tang | Phlegm-Heat, Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs, Qi Stagnation in Gallbladder and Stomach with Phlegm Heat... see more |
Er Chen Tang | Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs |
These formulas are suitable for some yellowish phlegm-causing patterns like Wind-Heat or Wind-Heat invading the Lungs.
One such formula is Yin Qiao San, with honeysuckle flowers as a key herb.
Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.
Formula | Patterns Suitable For (if applicable) |
---|---|
Yin Qiao San | Wind-Heat, Wind-Heat invading the Lungs |
Bing Peng San | Wind-Heat |
These formulas are suitable for some yellowish phlegm-causing patterns like Wind-Heat.
One such formula is Pu Ji Xiao Du Yin, with baikal skullcap root as a key herb.
Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.
Formula | Patterns Suitable For (if applicable) |
---|---|
Pu Ji Xiao Du Yin | Wind-Heat |
Huang Lian Jie Du Tang | Lung Heat |
These formulas are suitable for some yellowish phlegm-causing patterns like Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs or Lung Heat.
One such formula is Ma Xing Shi Gan Tang, with ephedra as a key herb.
Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.
Formula | Patterns Suitable For (if applicable) |
---|---|
Ma Xing Shi Gan Tang | Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs, Lung Heat |
Xie Bai San | Lung Heat |
These formulas are suitable for some yellowish phlegm-causing patterns like Wind-Cold invading the Interior with Phelgm-Heat or Phlegm-Heat.
One such formula is Ding Chuan Tang, with ginkgo nuts as a key herb.
These formulas are suitable for some yellowish phlegm-causing patterns like Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs or Lung Heat.
One such formula is Pi Pa Qing Fei Yin, with loquat leaves as a key herb.
These formulas are suitable for some yellowish phlegm-causing patterns like Wind-Heat.
One such formula is Sang Ju Yin, with mulberry leaves as a key herb.
Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.
Formula | Patterns Suitable For (if applicable) |
---|---|
Sang Ju Yin | Wind-Heat |
Jing Jie Lian Qiao Tang | Wind-Heat |
Zhu Ye Cheng Liu Tang | Wind-Heat |
These formulas are suitable for some yellowish phlegm-causing patterns like Wind-Heat.
One such formula is Cong Chi Tang, with scallions as a key herb.
Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.
Formula | Patterns Suitable For (if applicable) |
---|---|
Cong Chi Tang | Wind-Heat |
Huo Ren Cong Shi Tang | Wind-Heat |
These formulas are suitable for some yellowish phlegm-causing patterns like Wind-Heat.
One such formula is Xiao Feng San, with japanese catnip as a key herb.
These formulas are suitable for some yellowish phlegm-causing patterns like Wind-Heat.
One such formula is Fang Feng Tong Sheng San, with saposhnikovia root as a key herb.
These formulas are suitable for some yellowish phlegm-causing patterns like Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs.
One such formula is Qing Xin Li Ge Tang, with saposhnikovia root as a key herb.
These formulas are suitable for some yellowish phlegm-causing patterns like Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs.
One such formula is Ren Shen Ge Jie San, with tokay geckos as a key herb.
See more details below about Chize LU-5, an acupoint used to address yellowish phlegm.
On the cubital crease, on the redial aspect of the biceps tendon. It can be easily identified when the elbow is slightly flexed.