Loss Of Tasteaccording to TCM
Symptom family: Taste Disorders and Symptoms
What is Loss of Taste?
Loss of taste, or ageusia, refers to the inability to detect flavors. This condition can significantly affect one’s enjoyment of food and drink, potentially leading to changes in appetite and nutrition. While various factors, including aging, medication, and illness, can cause taste impairment, it often signals an underlying health issue that needs attention.
How does TCM view Loss of Taste?
From a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) perspective, loss of taste is seen as a symptom of disharmony within the body. TCM emphasizes the interconnectedness of the body's organs and systems, attributing taste loss to patterns such as Qi (vital energy) Deficiency or Yin Deficiency, particularly in the Stomach and Spleen. Recognizing and treating the underlying pattern of disharmony is crucial in restoring taste sensation according to TCM principles.
Root Causes of Loss Of Taste in TCM
TCM identifies several patterns that could lead to loss of taste, primarily focusing on Qi Deficiency and Yin Deficiency. For example, a Stomach and Spleen Qi Deficiency might manifest as a lack of taste, accompanied by symptoms like slight abdominal distension after eating, generalized fatigue, and diarrhea.
Similarly, Stomach and Spleen Yin Deficiency could cause a lack of taste, dry mouth, and a preference for sipping liquids. These patterns highlight the importance of the stomach and spleen in the digestion and distribution of nutrients and how their imbalance can affect the senses.
Explore below more details about what might cause Loss of taste according to TCM.
- By Syndrome
- By Organ
- Qi Deficiency
- Yin Deficiency
Qi Deficiency
Qi Deficiency in TCM is like running low on battery power. Qi is the vital energy that powers every function in your body. When there's a Qi Deficiency, it means your body doesn't have enough of this essential energy. This can make you feel tired all the time, weak, or even cause shortness of breath. It's similar to how you feel when you haven't had enough sleep or nutritious food. Your body just doesn't have the energy it needs to perform at its best. Unlike modern medicine, which often focuses on specific physical causes for fatigue and weakness, TCM views Qi Deficiency as an overall energy depletion that affects your entire well-being, and it seeks to replenish and balance this vital energy.... see more
Qi Deficiency Patterns That Can Lead to Loss Of Taste
Common Symptoms: Lack Of Appetite Weak Limbs Diarrhea Upper Abdominal Discomfort Slight Abdominal Distension After Eating Generalized Fatigue General Weakness Pale Face
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Stomach and Spleen Qi Deficiency | Lack of taste, Lack of appetite, Slight abdominal distension after eating, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Pale face, Weak limbs, Diarrhea, Upper abdominal discomfort, Loss of taste... see more | Si Jun Zi Tang | Shen Ling Bai Zhu San | Sheng Yang Yi Wei Tang | Xiang Sha Yang Wei Wan | Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang |
| Stomach Qi Deficiency | Lack of taste, Morning fatigue | Si Jun Zi Tang |
TCM Herbal Formulas for Loss Of Taste
To address loss of taste, TCM recommends formulas that nourish the Qi and Yin of the Stomach and Spleen. Si Jun Zi Tang, a classic formula that tonifies Qi, is commonly prescribed for both Stomach and Spleen Qi Deficiency, aiming to boost the body's vital energy and improve digestive health.
For Yin Deficiencies, Shen Ling Bai Zhu San may be utilized to nourish the Yin and moisten dryness, thereby restoring the sense of taste. These treatments are tailored to the individual's specific TCM diagnosis to effectively restore balance.
Explore below some TCM herbal formulas used to address loss of taste, organized by cause and by formula type.
- By Cause
- By Formula Type
- Qi Deficiency
- Yin Deficiency
Top Formula for Qi Deficiency:
Si Jun Zi Tang
Suitable for Qi Deficiency patterns that may cause loss of taste, such as Stomach and Spleen Qi Deficiency or Stomach Qi Deficiency
Learn moreAll Formulas Recommended for Loss Of Taste Caused by Qi Deficiency
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For |
|---|---|
| Si Jun Zi Tang | Stomach and Spleen Qi Deficiency, Stomach Qi Deficiency |
| Shen Ling Bai Zhu San | Stomach and Spleen Qi Deficiency |
| Sheng Yang Yi Wei Tang | Stomach and Spleen Qi Deficiency |
| Xiang Sha Yang Wei Wan | Stomach and Spleen Qi Deficiency |
| Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang | Stomach and Spleen Qi Deficiency |
Acupoints for Loss Of Taste
Acupuncture can also play a vital role in treating taste loss in TCM. Specific points like Juquan EX-HN-10, located on the tongue, directly benefit the tongue and potentially restore taste sensation.
Another point, Qihu ST-13, situated below the clavicle, helps to descend rebellious Qi and open the chest, facilitating the improvement of taste by ensuring the smooth flow of Qi and Blood to the sensory organs. These acupoints are part of a holistic approach aimed at addressing the root cause of taste loss and harmonizing the body's internal systems.
Explore below some acupoints used to address loss of taste, organized by meridian.
- By Meridian
- Extra Points: Head and Neck (EX-HN)
- Stomach Channel
