Symptom family: Throat & Pharyngeal Inflammations and Pains
Sub-symptom(s): Chronic Sore Throat
A sore throat is a common affliction characterized by pain, scratchiness, or irritation of the throat, often worsened by swallowing. This discomfort can be the result of viral infections, bacterial infections, allergens, or environmental irritants.
Synonyms such as pharyngitis or tonsillitis may be used depending on the specific area of the throat that is inflamed. Chronic sore throat might indicate recurring or persistent issues, signaling deeper health concerns or the need for a comprehensive medical evaluation.
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) approaches sore throat as a symptom arising from imbalances within the body's energy system. Unlike Western medicine, which often isolates symptoms, TCM considers a sore throat as a sign of underlying disharmonies, such as Heat, Wind, or Dryness invading the body.
TCM emphasizes the importance of diagnosing the specific pattern of disharmony causing the sore throat. Treatment strategies involve rebalancing the body's Qi (vital energy), nourishing Yin, and clearing away the pathogenic factors responsible for the symptom.
Traditional Chinese Medicine perceives a sore throat as a manifestation of an imbalance within the body’s energetic system. TCM identifies several patterns that could lead to this ailment, often involving an invasion of external pathogenic factors like Wind or Heat, or an internal condition of Dryness affecting the throat.
Recognizing the precise pattern is pivotal — whether it's an invasion of Wind-Heat manifesting with symptoms like fever and a rapid onset of throat pain, or a condition of Dryness creating a persistently scratchy throat. By discerning the underlying pattern, TCM practitioners can tailor an approach that addresses the root cause, promoting a return to balanced health.
Explore below more details about what might cause Sore throat 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: Fever Thirst Tonsil Swelling Aversion To Cold Dark Urine Coughing Excessive Sweating Carbuncles
Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
---|---|---|
Dry-Heat or Dry-Fire | Sore throat, Fever, Thirst, Excessive sweating, Skin dryness, Dry nose, Dry throat, Dry cough, Aversion to cold, Dry mouth... see more | Qing Zao Jiu Fei Tang | Xing Su San | Sang Xing Tang |
Toxic-Heat | Sore throat, Fever, Edema, Pus and discharge, Boils, Carbuncles, Pustule, Red skin eruptions, Eczema, Perineum swollen, Prostate swollen, Testicular swelling, Mouth ulcers, Tonsil swelling... see more | Yin Qiao San | Sang Ju Yin | Bai Hu Tang | Long Dan Xie Gan Tang | Qing Ying Tang | Xi Jiao Di Huang Tang | Huang Lian Jie Du Tang | Xin Yi Qing Fei Yin | Gan Lu Xiao Du Dan | Shi Wei Bai Du San | San Zhong Kui Jian Tang | Zi Dang Gao | Er Qing Gao | Bing Peng San | Pu Ji Xiao Du Yin |
Toxic-Heat Stagnation | Sore throat, Pustule, Carbuncles, Fever, Red skin eruptions, Throat pain, Eczema, Perineum swollen, Prostate swollen, Testicular swelling, Mouth ulcers, Tonsil swelling... see more | Huang Lian Jie Du Tang | Xin Yi Qing Fei Yin |
Wind-Heat | Sore throat, Aversion to cold, Fever, Sneezing, Coughing, Nasal discharge, Occipital stiffness, Occipital headache, Excessive sweating, Yellowish phlegm... see more | Yin Qiao San | Sang Ju Yin | Bing Peng San | Pu Ji Xiao Du 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 |
Wind-Heat invading the Lungs | Sore throat, Aversion to cold, Fever, Coughing, Congested nose, Nasal discharge, Copious thick yellow sputum, Sneezing, Headaches, Body pain, Thirst, Tonsil swelling... see more | Yin Qiao San |
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 Congested Nose Headaches Excessive Sweating
Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
---|---|---|
Dry-Wind | Sore throat, Aversion to cold, Excessive sweating, Skin dryness, Dry nose, Dry mouth, Dry throat, Dry cough, Dry tongue... see more | Sang Xing Tang |
Wind-Cold | Sore 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-Heat | Sore throat, Aversion to cold, Fever, Sneezing, Coughing, Nasal discharge, Occipital stiffness, Occipital headache, Excessive sweating, Yellowish phlegm... see more | Yin Qiao San | Sang Ju Yin | Bing Peng San | Pu Ji Xiao Du 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 |
Wind-Heat invading the Lungs | Sore throat, Aversion to cold, Fever, Coughing, Congested nose, Nasal discharge, Copious thick yellow sputum, Sneezing, Headaches, Body pain, Thirst, Tonsil swelling... see more | Yin Qiao San |
"Dryness" in TCM refers to a state where there is a lack of moisture in the body, much like how the land feels during a drought. It's a pattern of disharmony that can arise from external factors like dry weather or internal issues, such as insufficient fluid intake or certain lifestyle habits. When your body experiences this dryness, you might notice symptoms like dry skin, a scratchy throat, dry eyes, or even constipation. It's similar to the feeling of being parched or having dry, chapped lips in a very dry climate. TCM views this as an imbalance where the body's yin - often associated with moisture and cooling - is depleted.... see more
Common Symptoms: Excessive Sweating Skin Dryness Dry Nose Dry Throat Dry Cough Aversion To Cold Dry Mouth Fever
Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
---|---|---|
Dry-Heat or Dry-Fire | Sore throat, Fever, Thirst, Excessive sweating, Skin dryness, Dry nose, Dry throat, Dry cough, Aversion to cold, Dry mouth... see more | Qing Zao Jiu Fei Tang | Xing Su San | Sang Xing Tang |
Dry-Wind | Sore throat, Aversion to cold, Excessive sweating, Skin dryness, Dry nose, Dry mouth, Dry throat, Dry cough, Dry tongue... see more | Sang Xing Tang |
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
Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
---|---|---|
Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency | Chronic sore throat, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Hearing loss, Lower back pain, Vertical headaches, Occipital headache, Insomnia, Limb numbness, Tingling of limbs, Dry eyes, Blurry vision, Dry throat, Dry hair, Skin dryness, Withered and brittle nails, Vaginal dryness, Night sweats, Dry stools, Nocturnal emission, Scanty menstruation, Amenorrhea, Late menstruation, Infertility... see more | Liu Wei Di Huang Wan | Ming Mu Di Huang Wan |
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 | Sore 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 |
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
Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
---|---|---|
Wind-Heat invading the Lungs | Sore throat, Aversion to cold, Fever, Coughing, Congested nose, Nasal discharge, Copious thick yellow sputum, Sneezing, Headaches, Body pain, Thirst, Tonsil swelling... see more | Yin Qiao San |
In TCM the Kidneys are regarded as the body's most fundamental reservoir of Essence, known as Jing, which influences growth, reproduction, and aging. They are not just organs for filtering blood, but a holistic system governing vital life forces. When the Kidneys malfunction in TCM, it can manifest as a variety of health issues, such as chronic fatigue, reproductive problems, imbalances in fluid metabolism leading to edema or dryness, lower back pain, and a sense of fear or insecurity.... see more
Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
---|---|---|
Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency | Chronic sore throat, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Hearing loss, Lower back pain, Vertical headaches, Occipital headache, Insomnia, Limb numbness, Tingling of limbs, Dry eyes, Blurry vision, Dry throat, Dry hair, Skin dryness, Withered and brittle nails, Vaginal dryness, Night sweats, Dry stools, Nocturnal emission, Scanty menstruation, Amenorrhea, Late menstruation, Infertility... see more | Liu Wei Di Huang Wan | Ming Mu Di Huang Wan |
In TCM the Liver is viewed as the organ responsible for the smooth flow of Qi, Blood, and emotions throughout the body. It plays a key role in regulating mood, storing blood, supporting digestion, and ensuring the health of tendons and eyes. When the Liver malfunctions or is imbalanced in TCM, it can lead to a range of issues such as irritability, mood swings, menstrual irregularities, eye problems, and muscular stiffness or pain. A malfunctioning Liver in TCM reflects not only physical disturbances but also emotional and mental disharmony, emphasizing the holistic approach of TCM in addressing health and wellness.... see more
Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
---|---|---|
Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency | Chronic sore throat, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Hearing loss, Lower back pain, Vertical headaches, Occipital headache, Insomnia, Limb numbness, Tingling of limbs, Dry eyes, Blurry vision, Dry throat, Dry hair, Skin dryness, Withered and brittle nails, Vaginal dryness, Night sweats, Dry stools, Nocturnal emission, Scanty menstruation, Amenorrhea, Late menstruation, Infertility... see more | Liu Wei Di Huang Wan | Ming Mu Di Huang Wan |
In the treatment of a sore throat, TCM emphasizes restoring harmony and balance through the use of herbal formulas. Depending on the diagnosed pattern, a practitioner may recommend a formula to clear Heat, nourish Dryness, or expel Wind.
The chosen formula might combine ingredients known to soothe the throat, support immune function, and address specific symptoms like swelling, redness, or pain. These formulas are complex and carefully balanced to ensure they target the various facets of the condition, reflecting TCM's holistic approach to healing.
Explore below some TCM herbal formulas used to address sore throat, organized by cause and by formula type.
Suitable for Heat patterns that may cause sore throat, such as Toxic-Heat or Wind-Heat
Learn moreFormula | Patterns Suitable For |
---|---|
Yin Qiao San | Toxic-Heat, Wind-Heat, Wind-Heat invading the Lungs |
Sang Ju Yin | Toxic-Heat, Wind-Heat |
Huang Lian Jie Du Tang | Toxic-Heat, Toxic-Heat Stagnation |
Xin Yi Qing Fei Yin | Toxic-Heat, Toxic-Heat Stagnation |
Bing Peng San | Toxic-Heat, Wind-Heat |
Pu Ji Xiao Du Yin | Toxic-Heat, Wind-Heat |
Sang Xing Tang | Dry-Heat or Dry-Fire |
Cong Chi Tang | Wind-Heat |
Huo Ren Cong Shi Tang | Wind-Heat |
Qing Zao Jiu Fei Tang | Dry-Heat or Dry-Fire |
Xing Su San | Dry-Heat or Dry-Fire |
Bai Hu Tang | Toxic-Heat |
Long Dan Xie Gan Tang | Toxic-Heat |
Qing Ying Tang | Toxic-Heat |
Xi Jiao Di Huang Tang | Toxic-Heat |
Gan Lu Xiao Du Dan | Toxic-Heat |
Shi Wei Bai Du San | Toxic-Heat |
San Zhong Kui Jian Tang | Toxic-Heat |
Zi Dang Gao | Toxic-Heat |
Er Qing Gao | Toxic-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 |
Suitable for Wind patterns that may cause sore throat, 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 |
Cong Chi Tang | Wind-Cold, Wind-Heat |
Huo Ren Cong Shi Tang | Wind-Cold, Wind-Heat |
Sang Xing Tang | Dry-Wind |
Sang Ju Yin | Wind-Heat |
Bing Peng San | Wind-Heat |
Pu Ji Xiao Du Yin | Wind-Heat |
Jing Fang Bai Du San | Wind-Cold |
Ma Huang Tang | 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 |
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 |
Suitable for Dryness patterns that may cause sore throat, such as Dry-Heat or Dry-Fire or Dry-Wind
Learn moreFormula | Patterns Suitable For |
---|---|
Sang Xing Tang | Dry-Heat or Dry-Fire, Dry-Wind |
Qing Zao Jiu Fei Tang | Dry-Heat or Dry-Fire |
Xing Su San | Dry-Heat or Dry-Fire |
Suitable for Yin Deficiency patterns that may cause sore throat, such as Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency
Learn moreFormula | Patterns Suitable For |
---|---|
Liu Wei Di Huang Wan | Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency |
Ming Mu Di Huang Wan | Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency |
Suitable for Cold patterns that may cause sore throat, such as Wind-Cold
Learn moreFormula | Patterns Suitable For |
---|---|
Cong Chi Tang | Wind-Cold |
Huo Ren Cong Shi Tang | Wind-Cold |
Jing Fang Bai Du San | Wind-Cold |
Ma Huang Tang | 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 |
These formulas are suitable for some sore throat-causing patterns like Toxic-Heat or Wind-Heat.
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 | Toxic-Heat, Wind-Heat, Wind-Heat invading the Lungs |
Bing Peng San | Toxic-Heat, Wind-Heat |
Zi Dang Gao | Toxic-Heat |
Er Qing Gao | Toxic-Heat |
Jing Fang Bai Du San | Wind-Cold |
These formulas are suitable for some sore throat-causing patterns like Toxic-Heat or Toxic-Heat Stagnation.
One such formula is Huang Lian Jie Du Tang, with goldthread rhizome as a key herb.
Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.
Formula | Patterns Suitable For (if applicable) |
---|---|
Huang Lian Jie Du Tang | Toxic-Heat, Toxic-Heat Stagnation |
Pu Ji Xiao Du Yin | Toxic-Heat, Wind-Heat |
These formulas are suitable for some sore throat-causing patterns like Toxic-Heat or 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 | Toxic-Heat, Wind-Heat |
Jing Jie Lian Qiao Tang | Wind-Heat |
Zhu Ye Cheng Liu Tang | Wind-Heat |
These formulas are suitable for some sore throat-causing patterns like Toxic-Heat or Toxic-Heat Stagnation.
One such formula is Xin Yi Qing Fei Yin, with biond’s magnolia flowers as a key herb.
Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.
Formula | Patterns Suitable For (if applicable) |
---|---|
Xin Yi Qing Fei Yin | Toxic-Heat, Toxic-Heat Stagnation |
Long Dan Xie Gan Tang | Toxic-Heat |
These formulas are suitable for some sore 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.
Formula | Patterns Suitable For (if applicable) |
---|---|
Cong Chi Tang | Wind-Cold, Wind-Heat |
Huo Ren Cong Shi Tang | Wind-Cold, Wind-Heat |
These formulas are suitable for some sore throat-causing patterns like Dry-Heat or Dry-Fire or Dry-Wind.
One such formula is Sang Xing Tang, with mulberry leaves as a key herb.
These formulas are suitable for some sore throat-causing patterns like Wind-Cold.
One such formula is Ma Huang 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 Huang Tang | 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 |
These formulas are suitable for some sore throat-causing patterns like Dry-Heat or Dry-Fire.
One such formula is Qing Zao Jiu Fei Tang, with mulberry leaves as a key herb.
Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.
Formula | Patterns Suitable For (if applicable) |
---|---|
Qing Zao Jiu Fei Tang | Dry-Heat or Dry-Fire |
Xing Su San | Dry-Heat or Dry-Fire |
These formulas are suitable for some sore throat-causing patterns like Toxic-Heat.
One such formula is Qing Ying Tang, with water buffalo horn as a key herb.
Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.
Formula | Patterns Suitable For (if applicable) |
---|---|
Qing Ying Tang | Toxic-Heat |
Xi Jiao Di Huang Tang | Toxic-Heat |
These formulas are suitable for some sore throat-causing patterns like Toxic-Heat.
One such formula is Shi Wei Bai Du San, with saposhnikovia root as a key herb.
Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.
Formula | Patterns Suitable For (if applicable) |
---|---|
Shi Wei Bai Du San | Toxic-Heat |
San Zhong Kui Jian Tang | Toxic-Heat |
These formulas are suitable for some sore throat-causing patterns like Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency.
One such formula is Liu Wei Di Huang Wan, with prepared rehmannia as a key herb.
Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.
Formula | Patterns Suitable For (if applicable) |
---|---|
Liu Wei Di Huang Wan | Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency |
Ming Mu Di Huang Wan | Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency |
These formulas are suitable for some sore throat-causing patterns like Toxic-Heat.
One such formula is Bai Hu Tang, with gypsum as a key herb.
These formulas are suitable for some sore throat-causing patterns like Toxic-Heat.
One such formula is Gan Lu Xiao Du Dan, with baikal skullcap root as a key herb.
These formulas are suitable for some sore throat-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 sore throat-causing patterns like Wind-Heat.
One such formula is Fang Feng Tong Sheng San, with saposhnikovia root as a key herb.
In managing a sore throat, specific acupoints are utilized to harmonize imbalances and alleviate discomfort. Points along the meridians associated with the throat, such as those on the Lung and Large Intestine Channels, are typically selected for their effectiveness in clearing Heat, expelling Wind, and promoting the smooth flow of Qi to the affected area.
By stimulating these points, TCM aims to enhance the body's self-healing mechanisms, relieve sore throat symptoms, and address the deeper pattern of disharmony causing the condition.
Explore below some acupoints used to address sore throat, organized by meridian.
On the radial aspect of the midpoint of the first metacarpal bone, on the junction of the red and white skin (the junction of the dorsum and palm of the hand).
On the radial side of the thumb, about 0.1 cun posterior to the corner of the nail.
2 cun above Yangchi TB-4 at the dorsal wrist joint space, between the radius and ulna.
5 cun distal to the lateral epicondyle of the humerus, between the radius and ulna.
At the junction of the dorsum of the foot and leg, between the tendons of extensor digitorum and the extensor hallucis longus muscle. Approximately at the level of the tip of the external malleolus.
On the radial side of the index finger, about 0.1 cun posterior to the nail corner.