Itchy Throataccording to TCM
*redirected from Tickly throat
Symptom family: Throat & Pharyngeal Inflammations and Pains
Did you mean? Dry Throat
What is Itchy Throat?
An itchy throat is an irritating sensation within the throat that prompts a desire to cough or clear one's throat. It's a common symptom that many people experience, often acting as a precursor to other symptoms like coughing and sneezing. While usually not indicative of a severe condition, an itchy throat can be a nuisance, leading to discomfort and disruption of daily activities.
How does TCM View Itchy Throat?
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) approaches an itchy throat as a sign of imbalance within the body's internal environment. According to TCM, the throat is a crossroads of pathways, and its irritation can be the result of invading external factors like Wind or Heat, or an internal condition such as a Deficiency of Yin. TCM looks beyond the symptom to the systemic disharmony, seeking to restore equilibrium through various modalities like herbal medicine and acupuncture.
Root Causes of Itchy Throat in TCM
In TCM, the causes of an itchy throat are typically linked to the invasion of external pathogens like Wind or Heat. One common pattern involves the invasion of Wind, which can manifest as aversion to Cold, fever, and sneezing, reflecting a disruption in the Protective Qi.
Another pattern is the intrusion of Heat, which can lead to a dry, itchy sensation and is often associated with a fever and a red tongue. Treatment focuses on expelling the Wind or clearing the Heat to restore balance and alleviate the symptom.
Explore below more details about what might cause Itchy throat according to TCM.
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 Itchy Throat
Common Symptoms: Aversion To Cold Fever Headaches Nasal Discharge Sneezing Coughing Congested Nose Chills
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Exterior Wind | Itchy throat, Aversion to cold, Fever, Headaches, Anemophobia, Nasal discharge, Clear sputum, Sneezing, Coughing, Muscle pain, Itchy skin... see more | Chuan Xiong Cha Tiao San |
| Wind-Cold | Itchy throat, Aversion to cold, Fever, Sneezing, Coughing, Nasal discharge, Occipital headache, Occipital stiffness, Congested nose, White and watery sputum... see more | Jing Fang Bai Du San | Cong Chi Tang | Huo Ren Cong Shi Tang | Ma Huang Tang | Jiu Wei Qiang Huo Tang | Jia Wei Xiang Su San | Shi Shen Tang | Jin Fei Cao San | Wu Ji San |
| Wind-Cold invading the Lungs | Itchy throat, Aversion to cold, Fever, Shortness of breath, Congested nose, Nasal discharge, Sneezing, Headaches, Body pain, White and watery sputum, Coughing and wheezing with copious sputum... see more | Zhi Sou San | Ma Huang Tang | Ge Gen Tang | Xin Yi San |
| Wind-Heat | Itchy throat, Aversion to cold, Fever, Sneezing, Coughing, Nasal discharge, Occipital stiffness, Occipital headache, Excessive sweating, Sore throat, Yellowish phlegm... see more | Cong Chi Tang | Huo Ren Cong Shi Tang | Yin Qiao San | Sang Ju Yin | 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 |
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 Itchy Throat
Common Symptoms: Aversion To Cold Fever Sneezing Nasal Discharge Congested Nose White And Watery Sputum Body Pain Headaches
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Wind-Cold | Itchy throat, Aversion to cold, Fever, Sneezing, Coughing, Nasal discharge, Occipital headache, Occipital stiffness, Congested nose, White and watery sputum... see more | Jing Fang Bai Du San | Cong Chi Tang | Huo Ren Cong Shi Tang | Ma Huang Tang | Jiu Wei Qiang Huo Tang | Jia Wei Xiang Su San | Shi Shen Tang | Jin Fei Cao San | Wu Ji San |
| Wind-Cold invading the Lungs | Itchy throat, Aversion to cold, Fever, Shortness of breath, Congested nose, Nasal discharge, Sneezing, Headaches, Body pain, White and watery sputum, Coughing and wheezing with copious sputum... see more | Zhi Sou San | Ma Huang Tang | Ge Gen Tang | Xin Yi San |
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 Itchy Throat
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Phlegm-Fluids in the Lungs | Itchy throat, Coughing, White and watery sputum, Shortness of breath, Gurgling noise in the chest, Stifling sensation in the chest, Feeling of heaviness, Dizziness, Chills, Cought with sticky phlegm... see more | Ling Gan Wu Wei Jiang Xin Tang | Zhi Sou San |
Yin Deficiency
Yin deficiency in TCM is a pattern of disharmony characterized by a depletion of the body's Yin energy, which represents the cooling, moistening, and nurturing aspects of our physiology. This condition often arises from factors like chronic stress, overwork, insufficient rest, or prolonged illness. Symptoms of Yin deficiency can include a sensation of heat, especially in the afternoon or evening, night sweats, insomnia, a dry mouth or throat, and a red tongue with little coating. There might also be a general feeling of restlessness or irritability. Since Yin is essential for balancing the body's active and warm Yang energy, its deficiency leads to a relative excess of Yang, manifesting as heat or dryness symptoms.... see more
Yin Deficiency Patterns That Can Lead to Itchy Throat
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Lung Yin Deficiency | Tickly throat, Hoarse voice, Itchy throat, Reluctance to speak, Thin chest | Yang Yin Qing Fei Tang | Qing Zao Jiu Fei Tang | Bu Fei E Jiao Tang | Jiu Xian San |
Heat
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
Heat Patterns That Can Lead to Itchy Throat
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Wind-Heat | Itchy throat, Aversion to cold, Fever, Sneezing, Coughing, Nasal discharge, Occipital stiffness, Occipital headache, Excessive sweating, Sore throat, Yellowish phlegm... see more | Cong Chi Tang | Huo Ren Cong Shi Tang | Yin Qiao San | Sang Ju Yin | 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 |
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 Itchy Throat
Common Symptoms: Shortness Of Breath White And Watery Sputum Chills Coughing Gurgling Noise In The Chest Stifling Sensation In The Chest Feeling Of Heaviness Dizziness
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Phlegm-Fluids in the Lungs | Itchy throat, Coughing, White and watery sputum, Shortness of breath, Gurgling noise in the chest, Stifling sensation in the chest, Feeling of heaviness, Dizziness, Chills, Cought with sticky phlegm... see more | Ling Gan Wu Wei Jiang Xin Tang | Zhi Sou San |
| Wind-Cold invading the Lungs | Itchy throat, Aversion to cold, Fever, Shortness of breath, Congested nose, Nasal discharge, Sneezing, Headaches, Body pain, White and watery sputum, Coughing and wheezing with copious sputum... see more | Zhi Sou San | Ma Huang Tang | Ge Gen Tang | Xin Yi San |
| Lung Yin Deficiency | Tickly throat, Hoarse voice, Itchy throat, Reluctance to speak, Thin chest | Yang Yin Qing Fei Tang | Qing Zao Jiu Fei Tang | Bu Fei E Jiao Tang | Jiu Xian San |
TCM Herbal Formulas for Itchy Throat
In addressing an itchy throat, TCM may employ formulas like Chuan Xiong Cha Tiao San for its invigorating properties, particularly when the itchiness arises from external Wind.
For symptoms stemming from Heat, cooling formulas such as Yin Qiao San, with its heat-clearing Honeysuckle flowers, are preferred. Each herbal blend is tailored to the individual's presenting pattern, targeting not just the throat's itchiness but the root cause per the TCM diagnostic framework. These formulas are part of a holistic strategy, potentially complemented by acupuncture, to harmonize the internal landscape and relieve the irksome itch.
Explore below some TCM herbal formulas used to address itchy throat, organized by cause and by formula type.
- By Cause
- By Formula Type
- Wind
- Cold
- Phlegm
- Yin Deficiency
- Heat
- View More Causes
- Formulas that clear wind-Cold
- Formulas that dredge and disperse external wind
- External formulas for external disorders
- Formulas that clear wind-Heat
- Formulas that clear early-stage exterior disorders
- Formulas that warm and transform phlegm-Cold
- Formulas that transform phlegm and extinguish wind
- Formulas that release the exterior and warm the interior
- Formulas that release the exterior and purge the interior
- Formulas that clear heat and resolve toxicity
- Formulas that enrich yin and moisten dryness
- Formulas that disperse dryness and moisten
- Formulas that nourish yin and tonify
- Formulas that secure lungs and stop coughing
Top Formula for Wind:
Cong Chi Tang
Suitable for Wind patterns that may cause itchy throat, such as Wind-Cold or Wind-Heat
Learn moreAll Formulas Recommended for Itchy Throat Caused by Wind
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For |
|---|---|
| Cong Chi Tang | Wind-Cold, Wind-Heat |
| Huo Ren Cong Shi Tang | Wind-Cold, Wind-Heat |
| Ma Huang Tang | Wind-Cold, Wind-Cold invading the Lungs |
| Zhi Sou San | Wind-Cold invading the Lungs |
| Chuan Xiong Cha Tiao San | Exterior Wind |
| Jing Fang Bai Du San | Wind-Cold |
| Jiu Wei Qiang Huo Tang | Wind-Cold |
| Jia Wei Xiang Su San | Wind-Cold |
| Shi Shen Tang | Wind-Cold |
| Jin Fei Cao San | Wind-Cold |
| Wu Ji San | Wind-Cold |
| Ge Gen Tang | Wind-Cold invading the Lungs |
| Xin Yi San | Wind-Cold invading the Lungs |
| Yin Qiao San | Wind-Heat |
| Sang Ju Yin | 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 |
Top Formula for Cold:
Ma Huang Tang
Suitable for Cold patterns that may cause itchy throat, such as Wind-Cold or Wind-Cold invading the Lungs
Learn moreAll Formulas Recommended for Itchy Throat Caused by Cold
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For |
|---|---|
| Ma Huang Tang | Wind-Cold, Wind-Cold invading the Lungs |
| Cong Chi Tang | Wind-Cold |
| Huo Ren Cong Shi Tang | Wind-Cold |
| Zhi Sou San | Wind-Cold invading the Lungs |
| Jing Fang Bai Du San | Wind-Cold |
| Jiu Wei Qiang Huo Tang | Wind-Cold |
| Jia Wei Xiang Su San | Wind-Cold |
| Shi Shen Tang | Wind-Cold |
| Jin Fei Cao San | Wind-Cold |
| Wu Ji San | Wind-Cold |
| Ge Gen Tang | Wind-Cold invading the Lungs |
| Xin Yi San | Wind-Cold invading the Lungs |
Top Formula for Phlegm:
Zhi Sou San
Suitable for Phlegm patterns that may cause itchy throat, such as Phlegm-Fluids in the Lungs
Learn moreAll Formulas Recommended for Itchy Throat Caused by Phlegm
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For |
|---|---|
| Zhi Sou San | Phlegm-Fluids in the Lungs |
| Ling Gan Wu Wei Jiang Xin Tang | Phlegm-Fluids in the Lungs |
Top Formula for Yin Deficiency:
Yang Yin Qing Fei Tang
Suitable for Yin Deficiency patterns that may cause itchy throat, such as Lung Yin Deficiency
Learn moreAll Formulas Recommended for Itchy Throat Caused by Yin Deficiency
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For |
|---|---|
| Yang Yin Qing Fei Tang | Lung Yin Deficiency |
| Qing Zao Jiu Fei Tang | Lung Yin Deficiency |
| Bu Fei E Jiao Tang | Lung Yin Deficiency |
| Jiu Xian San | Lung Yin Deficiency |
Top Formula for Heat:
Cong Chi Tang
Suitable for Heat patterns that may cause itchy throat, such as Wind-Heat
Learn moreAll Formulas Recommended for Itchy Throat Caused by Heat
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For |
|---|---|
| Cong Chi Tang | Wind-Heat |
| Huo Ren Cong Shi Tang | Wind-Heat |
| Yin Qiao San | Wind-Heat |
| Sang Ju Yin | 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 |
Formulas that dredge and disperse External Wind
These formulas are suitable for some itchy throat-causing patterns like Exterior Wind.
One such formula is Chuan Xiong Cha Tiao San, with szechuan lovage root as a key herb.
Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.
All "formulas that dredge and disperse external wind" recommended for itchy throat
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Chuan Xiong Cha Tiao San | Exterior Wind |
| Xin Yi San | Wind-Cold invading the Lungs |
| Xiao Feng San | Wind-Heat |
Formulas that clear Wind-Cold
These formulas are suitable for some itchy throat-causing patterns like Wind-Cold or Wind-Cold invading the Lungs.
One such formula is Ma Huang Tang, with ephedra as a key herb.
Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.
All "formulas that clear wind-Cold" recommended for itchy throat
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Ma Huang Tang | Wind-Cold, Wind-Cold invading the Lungs |
| Jiu Wei Qiang Huo Tang | Wind-Cold |
| Jia Wei Xiang Su San | Wind-Cold |
| Shi Shen Tang | Wind-Cold |
| Jin Fei Cao San | Wind-Cold |
| Ge Gen Tang | Wind-Cold invading the Lungs |
External formulas for External disorders
These formulas are suitable for some itchy throat-causing patterns like Wind-Cold.
One such formula is Jing Fang Bai Du San, with japanese catnip as a key herb.
Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.
All "external formulas for external disorders" recommended for itchy throat
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Jing Fang Bai Du San | Wind-Cold |
| Yin Qiao San | Wind-Heat |
| Bing Peng San | Wind-Heat |
Formulas that clear early-stage Exterior disorders
These formulas are suitable for some itchy throat-causing patterns like Wind-Cold or 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.
All "formulas that clear early-stage exterior disorders" recommended for itchy throat
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Cong Chi Tang | Wind-Cold, Wind-Heat |
| Huo Ren Cong Shi Tang | Wind-Cold, Wind-Heat |
Formulas that transform Phlegm and extinguish Wind
These formulas are suitable for some itchy throat-causing patterns like Phlegm-Fluids in the Lungs or Wind-Cold invading the Lungs.
One such formula is Zhi Sou San, with aster root as a key herb.
Formulas that clear Wind-Heat
These formulas are suitable for some itchy throat-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.
All "formulas that clear wind-Heat" recommended for itchy throat
| 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 |
Formulas that warm and transform Phlegm-Cold
These formulas are suitable for some itchy throat-causing patterns like Phlegm-Fluids in the Lungs.
One such formula is Ling Gan Wu Wei Jiang Xin Tang, with dried ginger as a key herb.
Formulas that release the Exterior and purge the Interior
These formulas are suitable for some itchy throat-causing patterns like Wind-Heat.
One such formula is Fang Feng Tong Sheng San, with saposhnikovia root as a key herb.
Formulas that clear Heat and resolve toxicity
These formulas are suitable for some itchy throat-causing patterns like Wind-Heat.
One such formula is Pu Ji Xiao Du Yin, with baikal skullcap root as a key herb.
Formulas that enrich Yin and moisten Dryness
These formulas are suitable for some itchy throat-causing patterns like Lung Yin Deficiency.
One such formula is Yang Yin Qing Fei Tang, with unprepared rehmannia as a key herb.
Formulas that disperse Dryness and moisten
These formulas are suitable for some itchy throat-causing patterns like Lung Yin Deficiency.
One such formula is Qing Zao Jiu Fei Tang, with mulberry leaves as a key herb.
Formulas that nourish Yin and tonify
These formulas are suitable for some itchy throat-causing patterns like Lung Yin Deficiency.
One such formula is Bu Fei E Jiao Tang, with donkey-hide gelatin as a key herb.
Formulas that secure Lungs and stop coughing
These formulas are suitable for some itchy throat-causing patterns like Lung Yin Deficiency.
One such formula is Jiu Xian San, with poppy capsule as a key herb.
TCM Herbs for Itchy Throat
Explore below some TCM herbs used to address itchy throat, organized by herb category.
- By Herb Category
- Warm/Acrid herbs that release the exterior
- Cool/Acrid herbs that release the exterior
- Herbs that invigorate the blood
- Herbs that relieve coughing and wheezing
- Herbs that dispel wind and dampness
- Herbs that clear heat and relieve toxicity
- Purgative herbs that drain downward
- Herbs that clear heat and dry dampness
- Herbs that warm the interior and/or expel cold
- Warm herbs that transform phlegm and stop cough
- Herbs that drain dampness
- Herbs that open the orifices
- Herbs for external application
- Herbs that cool the blood
- Herbs that stabilize and bind
Warm/Acrid herbs that release the Exterior
Itchy throat can be treated by these herbs when there is a need to dispel external cold and warm the body, especially in cases where there is insufficient Yang energy internally.
One such herb is Japanese Catnip (Jing Jie), a key herb in some formulas recommended for itchy throat, like Jing Fang Bai Du San.
Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.
"Warm/Acrid herbs that release the Exterior" recommended for itchy throat
Cool/Acrid herbs that release the Exterior
Itchy throat can be treated by these herbs when the body needs to harmonize with external environmental changes, particularly when there's a need to expel pathogenic factors like wind or cold without overly cooling the body.
One such herb is Mulberry Leaves (Sang Ye), a key herb in some formulas recommended for itchy throat, like Sang Ju Yin.
Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.
"Cool/Acrid herbs that release the Exterior" recommended for itchy throat
Herbs that invigorate the Blood
Itchy throat can be treated by these herbs when it stems from stagnation or poor circulation of blood, helping to improve blood flow and alleviate related discomfort.
One such herb is Szechuan Lovage Roots (Chuan Xiong), a key herb in some formulas recommended for itchy throat, like Chuan Xiong Cha Tiao San.
Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.
"Herbs that invigorate the Blood" recommended for itchy throat
| Herb | Formulas they belong to (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Szechuan Lovage Roots (Chuan Xiong) | Chuan Xiong Cha Tiao San |
| Donkey-Hide Gelatin (E Jiao) | Bu Fei E Jiao Tang |
Herbs that relieve coughing and wheezing
Itchy throat can be treated by these herbs when it originates from obstructions in the lung pathways, helping to ease respiratory discomfort and restore normal breathing.
One such herb is Aster Roots (Zi Wan), a key herb in some formulas recommended for itchy throat, like Zhi Sou San.
Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.
"Herbs that relieve coughing and wheezing" recommended for itchy throat
| Herb | Formulas they belong to (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Aster Roots (Zi Wan) | Zhi Sou San |
| Stemona Roots (Bai Bu) | Zhi Sou San |
Herbs that dispel Wind and Dampness
Itchy throat can be treated by these herbs when it is due to the invasion or accumulation of wind and dampness, which often affects the muscles and joints.
One such herb is Pubescent Angelica Roots (Du Huo), a key herb in some formulas recommended for itchy throat, like Jing Fang Bai Du San.
Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.
"Herbs that dispel Wind and Dampness" recommended for itchy throat
| Herb | Formulas they belong to (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Pubescent Angelica Roots (Du Huo) | Jing Fang Bai Du San |
| Tamarisk Twigs And Leaves (Cheng Liu) | Zhu Ye Cheng Liu Tang |
Herbs that clear Heat and relieve Toxicity
Itchy throat can be treated by these herbs if it arises from internal heat and toxic accumulations, aiding in detoxification and cooling the body.
One such herb is Forsythia Fruits (Lian Qiao), a key herb in some formulas recommended for itchy throat, like Yin Qiao San.
Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.
"Herbs that clear Heat and relieve Toxicity" recommended for itchy throat
| Herb | Formulas they belong to (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Forsythia Fruits (Lian Qiao) | Yin Qiao San | Jing Jie Lian Qiao Tang |
| Honeysuckle Flowers (Jin Yin Hua) | Yin Qiao San |
Purgative herbs that drain downward
Itchy throat can be treated by these herbs in cases of severe constipation or internal heat, using strong downward movement to purge accumulation.
One such herb is Rhubarb (Da Huang), a key herb in some formulas recommended for itchy throat, like Fang Feng Tong Sheng San.
Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.
"Purgative herbs that drain downward" recommended for itchy throat
| Herb | Formulas they belong to (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Rhubarb (Da Huang) | Fang Feng Tong Sheng San |
| Mirabilites (Mang Xiao) | Fang Feng Tong Sheng San |
Herbs that clear Heat and dry Dampness
Itchy throat can be treated by these herbs when caused by excessive dampness and heat within the body, aiming to restore balance by drying dampness and clearing heat.
One such herb is Baikal Skullcap Roots (Huang Qin), a key herb in some formulas recommended for itchy throat, like Pu Ji Xiao Du Yin.
Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.
"Herbs that clear Heat and dry Dampness" recommended for itchy throat
| Herb | Formulas they belong to (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Baikal Skullcap Roots (Huang Qin) | Pu Ji Xiao Du Yin |
| Goldthread Rhizomes (Huang Lian) | Pu Ji Xiao Du Yin |
Herbs that warm the Interior and/or expel Cold
Itchy throat can be treated by these herbs if it is due to internal coldness or deficient Yang energy, working to warm the body and dispel cold.
One such herb is Dried Ginger (Gan Jiang), a key herb in some formulas recommended for itchy throat, like Ling Gan Wu Wei Jiang Xin Tang.
Warm herbs that transform Phlegm and stop Cough
Itchy throat can be treated by these herbs when it results from phlegm due to cold deficiency, aiming to warm the lungs and dissolve phlegm accumulation.
One such herb is Inula Flowers (Xuan Fu Hua), a key herb in some formulas recommended for itchy throat, like Jin Fei Cao San.
Herbs that drain Dampness
Itchy throat can be treated by these herbs when caused by excessive dampness in the body, aiding in eliminating damp through diuretic action.
One such herb is Poria-Cocos Mushrooms (Fu Ling), a key herb in some formulas recommended for itchy throat, like Wu Ji San.
Herbs that open the Orifices
Itchy throat can be treated by these herbs if it's a result of blockages in the body's sensory orifices, aiding in restoring clarity and consciousness.
One such herb is Borneol (Bing Pian), a key herb in some formulas recommended for itchy throat, like Bing Peng San.
Herbs for external application
Itchy throat can be treated by these herbs when the condition is external or superficial, requiring topical treatment to alleviate symptoms or heal the affected area.
One such herb is Borax (Peng Sha), a key herb in some formulas recommended for itchy throat, like Bing Peng San.
Herbs that cool the Blood
Itchy throat can be treated by these herbs when it is a consequence of excess heat in the blood, helping to cool and detoxify the blood.
One such herb is Unprepared Rehmannia (Di Huang), a key herb in some formulas recommended for itchy throat, like Yang Yin Qing Fei Tang.
Herbs that stabilize and bind
Itchy throat can be treated by these herbs if it is caused by a leakage of bodily fluids or energies, helping to consolidate and preserve the body's essential substances.
One such herb is Poppy Capsules (Ying Su Ke), a key herb in some formulas recommended for itchy throat, like Jiu Xian San.