Blood stagnation is the condition where blood overflows from the meridians and accumulates in the tissue spaces, or when blood circulation is sluggish, leading to stagnation within the meridians or internal organs. This condition is often detected through Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) tongue diagnosis. Chinese Tongue Diagnosis helps identify signs of blood stagnation by examining the color, shape, and coating of the tongue, which gives insights into whether the body’s blood circulation is smooth and whether blood stagnation is present.
1. Symptoms of Blood Stagnation Constitution
Blood stagnation is often caused by emotional imbalances (seven emotions), cold invasions, aging, or chronic illnesses that have not healed. The symptoms vary depending on the location of the blood stagnation, such as in the internal organs or meridians. Common signs include unexplained bruising on the body; dark or purple spots on the tongue, which are classic indications of blood stagnation in Chinese Tongue Diagnosis; and in women, menstrual blood that contains clots or is dark purple or dark-colored. These symptoms can be further confirmed through tongue diagnosis, where signs of stagnation on the tongue surface are often indicative of a blood stagnation constitution.
2. How to Care for Blood Stagnation Constitution
Blood stagnation is mainly caused by blocked blood flow, so the primary care principle is to invigorate the blood and resolve the stagnation. Care should be based on the results of Chinese Tongue Diagnosis, identifying the specific locations of blood stagnation and applying targeted treatments.
Dietary Adjustment:
For individuals with blood stagnation, it is beneficial to consume foods that invigorate blood circulation and resolve stagnation. Foods such as lotus root (莲藕), onions (洋葱), mushrooms (蘑菇木耳), kelp (海带), enoki mushrooms (金针菇), pineapple (菠萝), hawthorn (山楂), peach kernels (桃仁), and rapeseed (油菜) are recommended. It is also advised to avoid foods that are greasy, high in cholesterol, or prone to causing bloating, such as egg yolks and animal organs. Chinese Tongue Diagnosis suggests that consuming these foods helps improve blood stagnation symptoms on the tongue, promoting smoother circulation of qi and blood.
Herbal Therapy:
It is advisable to use blood-invigorating and blood-nourishing herbs. Common herbs for this purpose include Salvia miltiorrhiza (丹参), safflower (红花), Chuanxiong (川芎), Angelica sinensis (当归), and Motherwort (益母草), which are excellent for invigorating blood and resolving stagnation. Common herbal formulas include Xuefu Zhuyu Decoction (血府逐瘀汤) and Fuyuan Huoxue Decoction (复元活血汤). Chinese Tongue Diagnosis helps to further confirm the effectiveness of these herbs through changes in the tongue coating and color.
Exercise Therapy:
Light exercise is beneficial for individuals with blood stagnation, as it helps promote qi and blood circulation throughout the body. However, those with blood stagnation often have weaker cardiovascular function, so strenuous exercises should be avoided. Medium- or low-intensity exercises, performed multiple times, are recommended. Regular exercise can help improve symptoms of purple tongue and blood stasis.
Acupuncture Therapy:
The key is to invigorate the blood and resolve stagnation. Acupuncture points such as Zusanli (足三里), Sanyinjiao (三阴交), and Xuehai (血海) are beneficial for strengthening the spleen, tonifying qi, activating blood circulation, and regulating the menstrual cycle. Scraping therapy on points like Geyu (膈俞) and Qimen (期门) can promote blood circulation and resolve stagnation, while massaging the Hegu (合谷) point can help unblock meridians, promote circulation, and relieve pain. These acupuncture therapies can effectively improve the blood stagnation symptoms identified through Chinese Tongue Diagnosis.
Maintenance Precautions:
It is crucial to maintain a proper daily routine. Blood stagnation individuals tend to have weaker constitutions, so staying up late can worsen physical discomfort and lead to more serious diseases. Therefore, it’s important to ensure regular and healthy rest to boost immunity. Chinese Tongue Diagnosis can help determine whether irregular sleep patterns are contributing to worsening tongue signs of blood stagnation. Emotional stress can exacerbate blood stagnation, so maintaining a cheerful mood is essential. Listening to soothing, relaxing, and light music is a great way to nourish the spirit.
3. Daily Life Adjustment
- Individuals with blood stagnation are prone to depression, irritability, and unease, so it’s important to pay special attention to mental well-being. Keeping the mind and body happy helps to smooth the flow of qi and blood, improving the blood stagnation signs observed through tongue diagnosis.
- In autumn and winter, it is essential to stay warm. The cool autumn and cold winter can hinder the smooth flow of qi and blood. Exposure to cold can exacerbate blood stagnation. Chinese Tongue Diagnosis can monitor changes in the tongue body, helping to understand the effects of cold weather on blood stagnation constitution.
- In spring, it is vital to nurture the liver. The liver stores blood and regulates blood volume. If the liver is unhealthy, it can affect its blood storage function, leading to blood-related issues. Chinese Tongue Diagnosis helps assess how liver dysfunction affects blood circulation, guiding proper adjustments.
- Exercise can help promote yang energy, ease qi and blood flow, and improve overall health. However, if discomfort such as chest tightness, difficulty breathing, or rapid heartbeat occurs during exercise, it is important to stop and seek medical attention. Chinese Tongue Diagnosis can provide feedback, confirming whether blood stagnation is causing poor qi and blood circulation during exercise.
一. Cracked, Dark Red Tongue with Yellow, Greasy Coating – Phlegm and Stagnant Blood Injuring Yin
A dark red tongue with many cracks on the surface and a yellow, greasy, dry coating indicates a condition where the body accumulates excessive heat, which affects its ability to regulate temperature. This causes the tongue to turn red. A dark red tongue suggests stagnation of blood, which is one of the signs of blood stasis in Chinese Tongue Diagnosis.
The presence of numerous cracks on the tongue surface is caused by excessive heat injuring the Yin and deficiency of both Qi and Yin. The more cracks there are, the deeper they are, the more severe the condition is. The yellow, greasy coating suggests that the disease has entered the interior, and the evil heat has transformed into heat. This is commonly seen in cases of internal heat in the organs or in signs of heat in the Qi stage of a warm disease. Chinese Tongue Diagnosis can clarify the severity of internal heat.
1.Other Pathological Tongue Features
This tongue presentation is often found in patients who have long-standing phlegm-damp obstruction, leading to blood stasis in the meridians and stagnation of blood. Over time, this can injure Yin fluids. These patients often also experience symptoms like thirst and difficult urination. Chinese Tongue Diagnosis helps in identifying blood stasis, excessive heat, and other pathological changes in this context.
(Image) Dark red tongue with many cracks on the surface
2.How to Adjust and Treat
This tongue pattern is primarily caused by phlegm-stasis injuring Yin. Therefore, the treatment principle should focus on resolving phlegm, eliminating dampness, activating blood, and removing blood stasis. Blood-stasis patients should especially focus on these principles, and with the feedback from Chinese Tongue Diagnosis, the condition can be more precisely addressed.
- Daily Care: Exercise can help promote the smooth flow of Qi and blood and aid in the elimination of phlegm and dampness. Those with phlegm-dampness can engage in general physical activities such as jump rope, running, swimming, yoga, or practicing the Eight Brocade exercises (八段锦). These exercises can help improve blood stasis and promote the smooth flow of Qi and blood, improving the dark tongue and cracks.
- Dietary Advice: Eat more low-sugar, low-salt, high-fiber foods like celery, spinach, cabbage, and carrots. Also, consume more Yin-nourishing and blood-activating foods such as wood ear mushrooms (木耳), dates (大枣), and donkey-hide gelatin (阿胶). With analysis through Chinese Tongue Diagnosis, targeted food choices can be made to activate blood, remove blood stasis, and nourish Yin, helping to alleviate the cracks and dark red color on the tongue.
- Herbal Formula: The primary herbal treatment should focus on resolving phlegm. It can be supplemented with blood-activating herbs such as safflower (红花), peach kernel (桃仁), angelica (当归), and red peony (赤芍). Additionally, formulas like Xiangsha Liujun Wan (香砂六君丸) or Fuyuan Huoxue Decoction (复元活血汤) can be used for treatment. Through Chinese Tongue Diagnosis, we can monitor changes in the tongue and further confirm the effectiveness of the herbs, adjusting the formula according to the individual’s constitution.
- Acupuncture and Moxibustion: Points such as Zusanli (足三里), Sanyinjiao (三阴交), and Xuehai (血海) are suitable for moxibustion to tonify Qi and activate blood. Guanyuan (膈俞) and Qimen (期门), as well as He Gu (合谷), can be scraped to move Qi, eliminate accumulation, and unblock blood stasis. Chinese Tongue Diagnosis can help assess the effectiveness of moxibustion and scraping, further promoting blood circulation and resolving blood stasis.
二. Dark Purple, Pale Tongue • Blood Stasis and Toxicity Internal Accumulation
A dark purple tongue with accompanying purple spots, pale coating, and a dry tongue surface with scanty saliva suggests internal stagnation of Qi and blood, and the presence of blood stasis. Chinese Tongue Diagnosis observes the tongue color and purple spots on the tongue to reflect the pathological state of Qi and blood stagnation. The pale coating and dry, thick tongue surface indicate the presence of inflammation or excessive heat. Heat toxicity may lead to the depletion of body fluids, and Chinese Tongue Diagnosis helps identify this blockage caused by heat and toxins.
1.Other Pathological Tongue Features
This tongue pattern is usually seen in patients with long-standing accumulation of heat and toxins, which has caused damage to body fluids. Chinese Tongue Diagnosis helps in identifying blood stasis, heat toxicity, and poor circulation of Qi and blood. Patients with this tongue pattern often experience symptoms such as emaciation, poor appetite, dry stools, and yellowish urine, indicating a significant buildup of toxins and a lack of body fluids.
(Image) Dark purple tongue coating, thick white coating, with purple spots
2.How to Adjust and Treat
The formation of a dark purple, pale tongue is related to heat toxins injuring body fluids, Qi stagnation, and blood stasis obstructing the meridians. Therefore, treatment should focus on activating blood circulation, resolving blood stasis, clearing heat, and promoting urination to eliminate dampness. Through Chinese Tongue Diagnosis, we can monitor changes in the tongue’s appearance to guide the treatment plan more accurately.
- Daily Care: Regular physical exercise can enhance the body’s positive energy (Zheng Qi), balance Yin and Yang, harmonize Qi and blood, and unblock the meridians. Exercising for about 30 minutes each day promotes blood circulation and metabolism, improving blood stasis symptoms. Chinese Tongue Diagnosis feedback indicates that exercise can help adjust changes in the tongue and enhance Qi and blood flow in the body.
- Dietary Advice: Foods that activate blood circulation and remove blood stasis include onions, wood ear mushrooms, hawthorn, and grapes. Foods that clear heat and eliminate dampness include winter melon, water chestnuts, loquat, Job’s tears (薏苡仁), and adzuki beans. Chinese Tongue Diagnosis can help observe the improvement in the tongue’s appearance after dietary adjustments, confirming whether the heat toxicity and dampness are effectively cleared.
- Herbal Formula: Herbal remedies like Danshen (丹参), Angelica (当归), Red Peony (赤芍), Corydalis (延胡索), Xiang Fu (香附), and Curcuma (莪术) can be used to move Qi and activate blood. Herbs like Xia Ku Cao (夏枯草), Ban Zhi Lian (半枝莲), and Yin Chen (茵陈) are useful for clearing heat and eliminating dampness. These herbs can help adjust the blood stasis constitution, and through Chinese Tongue Diagnosis, the effectiveness of the herbs can be observed, ensuring the remedy is targeted and effective.
- Acupressure Treatment: Massage points like Zhongwan (中脘), Weishu (胃俞), Pishu (脾俞), and Dan Shu (胆俞) can clear heat, eliminate dampness, and strengthen the spleen and stomach. Cupping at points like Zusanli (足三里) and Yanglingquan (阳陵泉) can strengthen the spleen, remove dampness, and activate the meridians. According to Chinese Tongue Diagnosis feedback, acupressure and cupping can help improve the tongue coating, remove excess thickness, and unblock the meridians to harmonize Qi and blood.
三. Fat, Large Tongue with Stasis Spots and White, Greasy Coating – Poor Blood Circulation
The tongue is light red with a white, greasy coating, a larger-than-normal tongue body, and stasis spots on the surface. A large tongue body indicates internal phlegm-damp accumulation. Through Chinese Tongue Diagnosis, we can observe the tongue’s quality to reveal the accumulation of dampness and phlegm in the body. The white, greasy coating indicates the presence of phlegm and dampness, obstructing the smooth flow of Qi and blood, leading to blood stasis. Stasis spots on the tongue surface suggest poor circulation of Qi and blood, indicating further blood stasis.
1. Other Pathological Tongue Features
This tongue pattern suggests that the patient’s condition is caused by Qi stagnation, leading to phlegm and blood stasis. According to Chinese Tongue Diagnosis, a large tongue body with a white, greasy coating reflects internal Qi stagnation and dampness obstruction, with blood stasis impeding proper circulation. This condition may cause emotional fluctuations and physical discomfort. Patients often experience symptoms such as depression, emotional fragility, irritability, mood instability, and excessive worry.
(Image)Fat tongue body with stasis spots
2. How to Adjust and Treat
This tongue pattern is primarily caused by Qi stagnation leading to phlegm and blood stasis. Therefore, the treatment should focus on soothing the liver, regulating Qi, and resolving blood stasis. Through Chinese Tongue Diagnosis, the changes in the tongue can help identify signs of poor blood circulation and guide the creation of a treatment plan aimed at unblocking the meridians and activating blood circulation.
- Daily Care: To activate blood flow and clear phlegm, eat foods that help regulate Qi, promote blood circulation, and resolve stasis, such as oranges (橘子), grapefruits (柚子), seaweed (海带), and carrots (胡萝卜). Foods like Job’s tears (薏苡仁), loofah (丝瓜), and winter melon (冬瓜) can also help clear phlegm and resolve stasis. These foods improve Qi and blood circulation, helping to alleviate blood stasis symptoms. Chinese Tongue Diagnosis can monitor the changes in the tongue coating to ensure continued effectiveness of the treatment.
- Herbal Formula: Use Qi-regulating and blood-activating herbs like Zhiqiao (枳壳), Mukang (木香), and Platycodon (桔梗) to promote Qi circulation, along with Angelica (当归), Red Peony (赤芍), Safflower (红花), and Peach Kernel (桃仁) to activate blood and resolve stasis. Formulas such as Xuefu Zhuyu Decoction (血府逐瘀汤) or Banxia Houpo Decoction (半夏厚朴汤) help harmonize Qi and blood and resolve blood stasis. Chinese Tongue Diagnosis can assist in monitoring the tongue’s quality to evaluate the suitability and effectiveness of these formulas.
- Acupressure Treatment: To soothe the liver, regulate Qi, and eliminate phlegm and dampness, massage points like Taichong (太冲), Xingjian (行间), Neiguan (内关), and Quchi (曲池) to promote smooth Qi and blood flow, clear heat, and reduce inflammation. Moxibustion at points such as Gan Shu (肝俞), Dan Zhong (膻中), Qi Men (期门), Zhongwan (中脘), and Yanglingquan (阳陵泉) can help improve Qi stagnation and blood stasis. Combined with feedback from Chinese Tongue Diagnosis, these treatments can help adjust the therapy plan for optimal results.
四. Cyanosis and Purple Stasis Spots on the Tongue – Qi and Blood Stagnation
The tongue appears cyanotic and purple, with a thin white coating. Purple-red striped spots are found along the edges of the tongue, and there are purple dots on the tip of the tongue. The middle of the tongue has a thin white coating. A cyanotic and purple tongue color indicates poor circulation of Qi and blood, leading to stagnation and the accumulation of blood in the body.
The stasis spots on the tongue surface suggest that Qi and blood are obstructed, resulting in blood stasis. The purple spots on the edges of the tongue are typically related to liver and gallbladder Qi stagnation, while the purple dots on the tip may indicate heart-related issues, further reflecting Qi and blood circulation problems.
1. Other Pathological Tongue Features
This tongue pattern is commonly seen in patients with liver Qi stagnation and impaired Qi and blood flow. The stagnation of Qi and blood can affect the function of multiple organs, leading to symptoms such as: pain in the hypochondrium, dull and sallow complexion, fatigue, abdominal bloating, chest tightness, palpitations, insomnia, and abdominal pain. It may also be accompanied by digestive discomfort, lack of appetite, and other symptoms.
(Image) Cyanotic tongue with purple spots on the tip
2．How to Adjust and Treat
This tongue pattern is typically caused by liver Qi stagnation, poor circulation of Qi and blood, and blood stasis. Therefore, treatment should focus on soothing the liver, regulating Qi, and promoting blood circulation. Additionally, liver function should be adjusted to promote smooth Qi and blood flow.
Mushrooms are beneficial for promoting Qi and blood flow
- Daily Care: The key is to promote smooth Qi and blood circulation. It is recommended to eat fresh vegetables, fruits, and mushrooms, such as asparagus (芦笋), wood ear mushrooms (木耳), silver ear mushrooms (银耳), shiitake mushrooms (香菇), and cucumbers (黄瓜). These foods effectively activate blood circulation, resolve stasis, and relieve Qi stagnation. It is important to note that spleen and stomach disharmony can also lead to Qi and blood stagnation, so it is essential to balance these organs to ensure smooth Qi and blood flow. Additionally, maintaining a positive mood and engaging in moderate exercise can greatly promote the smooth circulation of Qi and blood.
- Herbal Formula: For Qi and blood stagnation, choose herbs that regulate the meridians, activate Qi and blood, such as Lobelia (半枝莲), Xianhecao (仙鹤草), Sanqi (三七), and White Peony (白芍), which have excellent unblocking effects. Common Chinese patent medicines like Xuefu Zhuyu Oral Liquid (血府逐瘀口服液) can effectively activate blood circulation and resolve stasis, improving blood flow. Additionally, formulas like Modified Xihuang Pill (加味西黄丸) can also assist in the treatment.
- Acupressure Treatment: The effects of soothing the liver, regulating Qi, and activating blood can be enhanced through acupressure and moxibustion. It is recommended to massage points like Xinshu (心俞), Shenmen (神门), which can help relieve chest tightness, regulate Qi, calm the mind, and alleviate symptoms of insomnia. Additionally, massaging points like Ganshu (肝俞), Neiguan (内关), Waiguan (外关), and Zusanli (足三里) can help clear liver Qi stagnation, relieve pain, and activate the meridians, improving symptoms of liver Qi stagnation and poor Qi and blood circulation. Regularly performing these treatments can help unblock blood stasis and restore smooth Qi and blood flow.
五. Dark Purple Tongue with Stasis Spots and Dots – Heart Blood Stagnation
The tongue appears dark purple with a thin white coating, and there are stasis spots and scattered stasis dots along the edges and tip of the tongue. The dark purple color of the tongue indicates poor circulation of Qi and blood, with obstruction in the blood vessels. The stasis spots and dots on the tongue’s edges and tip suggest blood stagnation in the liver, which may also involve heart function. A reddish tip of the tongue indicates an excess of heart fire, possibly suggesting increased strain on the heart. The overall tongue appearance reflects heart blood stagnation and difficulty in the smooth flow of Qi and blood.
1. Other Pathological Tongue Features
This tongue pattern is commonly seen in patients with heart blood stagnation and poor circulation of Qi and blood. Symptoms may include chest tightness, chest pain, and worsening of symptoms at night, often accompanied by palpitations and fatigue. If this condition persists, patients may develop coronary heart disease, angina, and other cardiovascular conditions.
(Image) Dark purple tongue with stasis spots and dots
2. How to Adjust and Treat
The formation of this tongue pattern is closely related to poor circulation of Qi and blood, particularly in the heart and liver. Therefore, treatment should focus on activating blood circulation, resolving blood stasis, and unblocking the meridians, with an emphasis on improving heart and liver blood flow to relieve obstruction.
- Daily Care: Patients should avoid spicy, greasy, and cold foods that tend to promote heat and dampness. A light diet is recommended, with a focus on fresh vegetables, fruits, and a balanced nutritional intake. It’s important to combine foods that are rich in antioxidants, such as leafy greens and orange-colored vegetables and fruits. Warm meals help maintain the balance of the organs and prevent the negative effects of cold or air conditioning.
- Herbal Formula: Blood-activating and stasis-resolving herbs are highly effective for this tongue pattern. Recommended herbs include peach kernel (桃仁), safflower (红花), and Angelica root (当归), supplemented with herbs like Chuanxiong (川芎) and Platycodon root (桔梗) to regulate Qi and relieve pain. Classic formulas such as Xuefu Zhuyu Decoction (血府逐瘀汤) or Danshen Drink (丹参饮) help to unblock blood vessels and improve circulation. It’s important to note that pregnant women and patients with bleeding disorders should avoid these formulas to prevent exacerbating their condition.
- Acupressure Treatment: Acupressure and gua sha (scraping) therapy can help unblock the meridians and activate blood circulation. It is recommended to massage points such as Yinxi (阴郄) and Neiguan (内关) to clear the heart, calm the mind, regulate Qi, and relieve pain, helping to alleviate palpitations and chest tightness. Gua sha on points like Shanzhong (膻中), Jueqi (巨阙), and Xinshu (心俞) can disperse heat, activate blood, and regulate Qi, improving blood circulation. Regular acupressure and gua sha can serve as adjunct therapies to enhance the overall treatment effect.
六. Dark Red, Wolf Tongue with Tooth Marks, and Stasis Under the Tongue – Qi Stagnation, Blood Stasis, and Damp-Heat
The tongue appears dark red with a thin yellow and greasy coating, and there are tooth marks along the sides of the tongue. The tongue surface is moist, and stasis is present under the tongue. According to Chinese Tongue Diagnosis, the dark red tongue indicates the presence of stagnant heat in the body. The tooth marks along the sides of the tongue suggest phlegm and dampness, with the internal phlegm-dampness transforming into heat. The thin yellow and greasy coating represents the obstructive action of phlegm and dampness transforming into heat. The stasis under the tongue indicates Qi stagnation and blood stasis, accompanied by damp-heat. This tongue appearance reflects a pathological state of Qi stagnation, blood stasis, and damp-heat accumulation.
1. Other Pathological Tongue Features
This tongue pattern is commonly seen in patients with Qi stagnation, blood stasis, and damp-heat. Common symptoms include bloating and pain in the stomach and abdomen, belching, constipation, chest and rib tightness, migratory pain, and irritability. Chinese Tongue Diagnosis can help identify the connection between these symptoms and Qi stagnation or blood stasis, providing a basis for treatment.
(Image) Dark red tongue with tooth marks, thin yellow and greasy coating
2. How to Adjust and Treat
The formation of this tongue pattern is largely related to Qi stagnation, blood stasis, and the accumulation of damp-heat. Therefore, treatment should focus on soothing the liver, regulating Qi, clearing heat, and resolving blood stasis. The main goal is to unblock the flow of Qi and blood, eliminate damp-heat, and restore smooth circulation.
- Dietary Therapy: Foods that activate blood circulation, resolve blood stasis, and clear phlegm-heat can help adjust this tongue pattern. It is recommended to consume foods such as lotus root (莲藕), shiitake mushrooms (香菇), black fungus (木耳), kelp (海带), hawthorn (山楂), and peach kernel (桃仁). Additionally, foods that clear phlegm and heat, such as lily (百合), pear (梨), and white radish (白萝卜), should be included to help eliminate damp-heat and promote smooth circulation of Qi and blood.
- Herbal Formulas: In traditional Chinese medicine, blood-activating herbs such as rehmannia (地黄), danshen (丹参), safflower (红花), chicken gizzard membrane (鸡内金), chuanxiong (川芎), Angelica (当归), Wu Jia Pi (五加皮), di yu (地榆), peach kernel (桃仁), and motherwort (益母草) are commonly used. These herbs help resolve blood stasis and promote the smooth circulation of Qi and blood. Common formulas include Xuefu Zhuyu Decoction (血府逐瘀汤) and Fuyuan Huoxue Decoction (复元活血汤), which are highly effective.
- Acupressure Treatment: Massaging and using moxibustion to unblock the meridians and activate blood circulation can be beneficial. It is recommended to massage points such as Qimen (期门), Xingjian (行间), Taichong (太冲), Shenmen (神门), and Gan Shu (肝俞), as these points help soothe the liver, regulate Qi, and clear heat and blood stasis. Moxibustion on points like Guan Yuan (关元), Qi Hai (气海), and Zi Gong (子宫) can further activate blood, unblock the meridians, and enhance the treatment’s effect.
七. Dark Purple Tongue with Stasis Spots on the Edges – Blood Stasis Blocking the Meridians
The tongue appears dark purple with a thin white coating, and there are stasis spots along the edges of the tongue. According to Chinese Tongue Diagnosis, the dark purple tongue and the stasis spots along the edges indicate poor circulation of Qi and blood, leading to blood stasis. This tongue appearance is commonly seen in patients with blood stasis blocking the meridians, especially when caused by dysfunction of the Chong and Ren vessels, which regulate the body’s Qi and blood.
Dysfunction of the Chong and Ren vessels refers to the disruption of the Chong and Ren meridians, causing stagnation of Qi and blood in the internal organs and meridians, and thus disturbing the balance of Yin and Yang and the smooth flow of Qi.
1. Other Pathological Tongue Features
This tongue pattern is often seen in patients who have suffered from a prolonged illness or have sustained external trauma, resulting in poor circulation of Qi and blood and causing blockage of the meridians and stagnation of Qi and blood. It can also occur in individuals with weak constitution or diminished organ function, which hinders the normal flow of Qi and blood. Common symptoms include cold hands and feet, emotional stagnation, irritability, and depression.
(Image) Dark purple tongue with stasis spots along the edges
2. How to Adjust and Treat
The formation of this tongue pattern is closely linked to excess heat in the liver and gallbladder, as well as the accumulation of heat toxins and blood stasis in the body. Treatment should focus on clearing liver and gallbladder heat, activating blood circulation, and resolving blood stasis. The main goal is to unblock the meridians, regulate Qi and blood, and restore smooth circulation of Qi.
- Daily Care: People with a blood stasis constitution should pay attention to moderate exercise to promote blood circulation and improve the smooth flow of Qi and blood. Walking, jogging, swimming, and other aerobic exercises are particularly helpful for improving blood circulation.
- Dietary Therapy: Foods that activate blood circulation, resolve blood stasis, and promote Qi flow are suitable for people with blood stasis. Recommended foods include hawthorn (山楂), eggplant (茄子), water spinach (空心菜), lotus root (莲藕), onion (洋葱), shiitake mushrooms (香菇), black fungus (木耳), kelp (海带), enoki mushrooms (金针菇), and rapeseed (油菜). These vegetables help activate blood circulation, resolve blood stasis, and regulate Qi.
- Herbal Formulas: Herbs that activate blood circulation, resolve blood stasis, and regulate Qi are ideal for treating this tongue pattern. Common herbs include Pueraria (葛根), peach kernel (桃仁), Chuanxiong (川芎), and Angelica root (当归). A representative formula is Taohong Siwu Decoction (桃红四物汤), which effectively regulates Qi and blood, unblocks the meridians, and relieves stasis. Additionally, Xiaoyao San (逍遥散) is effective for soothing the liver and relieving depression, which is helpful for patients with liver Qi stagnation.
- Acupressure Treatment: Gua sha and acupressure can help activate blood circulation, resolve blood stasis, and unblock the meridians. Recommended acupressure points for gua sha include the liver Shu point (肝俞), Xuehai (血海), Zhongji (中极), Qichong (气冲), and Dijian (地机), which can help supplement Qi and blood, regulate Qi, and resolve blood stasis. Massaging the Sanjiao Shu point (三焦俞), Zusanli point (足三里), and Sanyinjiao point (三阴交) can help regulate the Sanjiao, unblock the meridians, and improve the flow of Qi and blood.
八. Dark Red Tongue with Thin White Coating – Internal Stasis Heat
The tongue appears dark red with a thin white coating, and there are small irregular cracks at the back of the tongue. According to Chinese Tongue Diagnosis, a dark red tongue and cracks on the tongue generally indicate the presence of stasis heat within the body. The dark red tongue represents the manifestation of stasis heat, while the small cracks at the back of the tongue are often caused by the consumption of body fluids due to internal heat from Yin deficiency. The thin white coating on the tongue suggests that the tongue surface is in a normal state without obvious pathological changes.
1. Other Pathological Tongue Features
This tongue appearance is often caused by stasis heat resulting from liver and kidney Yin deficiency. Patients may experience symptoms such as bitter taste in the mouth, dry mouth, heavy body, fatigue, sticky or dry stools, irritability, and dull complexion. The internal heat from Yin deficiency is typically associated with these symptoms.
(Image) Dark red tongue with small, irregular cracks on the tongue surface
2. How to Adjust and Treat
This tongue pattern is closely related to liver and kidney Yin deficiency and the internal generation of stasis heat. Treatment should focus on nourishing the liver and kidneys, clearing heat, and balancing Yin and Yang within the body, while also alleviating stasis heat.
- Daily Care: During spring, the liver is the primary organ to focus on. When there is stasis heat in the body, it is important to support liver function and engage in moderate exercise to help Qi flow. In summer, avoid cold foods such as ice cream to prevent worsening internal damp-cold conditions. It is advisable to maintain a gentle diet and avoid excessively cold foods during the adjustment process.
- Dietary Therapy: The diet should be light and nutritious, including fresh vegetables and fruits. It is also recommended to eat foods that promote blood circulation and nourish Yin, such as hawthorn, red dates, and red beans. These foods help activate blood, resolve stasis, and improve circulation. Additionally, mulberries and lilies are beneficial for nourishing Yin, moisturizing dryness, and tonifying the liver and kidneys.
- Herbal Formulas: Choose herbs that nourish Yin, clear heat, and activate blood circulation, such as Anemarrhena (知母), Rehmannia (生地黄), Phellodendron (黄柏), Cornus (山茱萸), Dioscorea (山药), Tree Peony Root (牡丹皮), Poria (茯苓), Alisma (泽泻), Gastrodia (天麻), Gardenia (栀子), and Motherwort (益母草). For kidney Yin deficiency, Zhibai Dihuang Pills (知柏地黄丸) are recommended. For liver Yin deficiency, Tianma Gou Teng Decoction (天麻钩藤饮) is advised to clear heat and calm the liver.
- Acupressure Treatment: Choose acupressure points for gua sha to tonify the kidneys and Qi. Recommended acupressure points include the Yongquan point (涌泉), Taixi point (太溪), Mingmen point (命门), and Shen Shu point (肾俞). Massaging the Taichong point (太冲), Dadun point (大敦), and liver Shu point (肝俞) helps nourish liver Yin, clear liver heat, promote Qi and blood flow, and relieve stasis heat.
九. Dark Red Tongue, Red Tip, and Stasis Under the Tongue (Qi and Blood Stagnation)
The tongue appears dark red, with little or no coating on the surface, and small, irregular cracks in the middle. The tip of the tongue is red, and there is stasis under the tongue. According to Chinese Tongue Diagnosis, the dark red tongue indicates heat and stasis in the body. A lack of coating or thin coating and cracks suggest Yin deficiency with internal heat. The red tip indicates excess heart fire, and the stasis under the tongue reflects stagnation of Qi and blood.
1. Other Pathological Tongue Features
This tongue appearance is typically associated with liver and kidney deficiency, and dysfunction of internal organs. Patients may experience symptoms of excess heart fire, liver Qi stagnation, and Qi and blood stasis. Common symptoms include irritability, chest or rib-side pain, loss of appetite, and insomnia. The poor circulation of Qi and blood in the body further exacerbates emotional and physical discomfort.
(Image) Dark red tongue, red tip, and stasis under the tongue
2. How to Adjust and Treat
The root cause of Qi and blood stagnation is often related to liver Qi stagnation. Treatment should focus on soothing the liver, releasing stagnation, tonifying the kidneys, and strengthening the spleen to promote smooth Qi and blood flow, alleviate blockages, and restore liver function.
- Daily Care: Aerobic exercise helps burn off internal heat and promotes Qi and blood circulation. It is particularly beneficial for those with Qi and blood stagnation as it improves the flow of Qi within the body. Recommended activities include brisk walking, jogging, swimming, jump rope, and cycling, which can effectively regulate both body and mind, alleviating negative emotions.
- Dietary Therapy: In terms of diet, it is suitable to consume foods that soothe the liver and relieve stagnation, such as hawthorn, dried plum (乌梅), radish, mustard greens, and lotus root. It is also important to tonify the kidneys and strengthen the spleen, with foods like chestnuts, walnuts, yam, and broad beans that help balance organ functions and promote Qi and blood circulation.
- Herbal Formulas: A commonly used formula is Xiao Yao San (逍遥散), which soothes the liver, relieves stagnation, and strengthens the spleen. This formula is suitable for patients with liver Qi stagnation. For more severe Qi and blood stagnation, Fu Yuan Huo Xue Tang (复元活血汤) can be used to invigorate blood, dissolve stasis, and promote Qi flow.
- Acupressure Treatment: Massaging the Xin Shu (心俞) and Shen Men (神门) acupoints can help relax the chest, regulate Qi, and calm the mind. Additionally, massaging acupoints like Taichong (太冲), liver Shu (肝俞), kidney Shu (肾俞), San Yin Jiao (三阴交), and Taixi (太溪) can help soothe the liver, nourish blood, tonify the kidneys, and open meridians to improve Qi and blood flow.
十. Dull, Swollen Tongue — Qi and Blood Stagnation
The tongue appears dull and swollen, with slight tooth marks on the sides, and a thin white coating. From the perspective of Chinese Tongue Diagnosis, a dull tongue with a lack of color indicates poor circulation of Qi and blood, leading to Qi stagnation and blood stasis. A swollen tongue with tooth marks suggests the accumulation of phlegm and dampness, and weak Yang energy.
1.Other Pathological Tongue Features
This tongue appearance is commonly seen in patients with long-standing Qi stagnation and blood that has not been transformed. Patients often experience symptoms such as long-term depression, bloating in the abdomen, a sensation of a foreign body in the throat, insomnia, and forgetfulness. Female patients may also have common gynecological conditions like thyroid nodules, breast hyperplasia, and uterine fibroids.
(Image) Dull tongue with a swollen body
2. How to Adjust and Treat
Since the root cause is poor circulation of Qi and blood and blockages in the channels, treatment should focus on promoting Qi circulation and activating blood flow to resolve stagnation. By unblocking the Qi and blood, and adjusting organ functions, related symptoms can be alleviated.
- Daily Care: It is recommended to associate with cheerful, humorous, and optimistic people and cultivate positive hobbies such as calligraphy, painting, or yoga. These activities help regulate the body and mind, maintaining a pleasant mood. Pay attention to relaxation, reducing stress, and maintaining a regular sleep schedule to avoid long-term anxiety and emotional depression.
- Dietary Therapy: Foods that promote Qi circulation and activate blood flow, such as shiitake mushrooms, yam, and sweet potatoes, are recommended. These foods help unblock Qi and blood, relieving Qi stagnation. Additionally, consume warming foods to invigorate blood and warm Yang, such as scallions, pumpkins, garlic, ginger, chestnuts, and oranges, which help accelerate blood circulation and resolve internal stasis.
- Herbal Formulas: Suitable herbs include Chai Hu (柴胡), Bai Ji Li (白蒺藜), Tao Ren (桃仁), and Hong Hua (红花) for soothing the liver and activating blood circulation. To enhance blood circulation, you can add herbs like Ji Xue Teng (鸡血藤) and Dan Shen (丹参). Consider taking modified Xiao Yao Wan or Xue Fu Zhu Yu Wan (血府逐瘀丸) to regulate Qi and blood.
- Acupressure Treatment: Massaging acupoints like Shan Zhong (膻中), Qi Men (期门), and Tai Chong (太冲) helps promote Qi and blood circulation, relieve Qi stagnation, and ease depression. You can also use Gua Sha on acupoints like Xue Hai (血海), San Yin Jiao (三阴交), and Zu San Li (足三里) to activate blood, resolve stasis, and improve Qi and blood flow.
Summary: Traditional Chinese Medicine Tongue Diagnosis and Qi and Blood Stagnation Treatment Guidelines
By analyzing “Traditional Chinese Medicine Tongue Diagnosis,” we can gain a deeper understanding of the physical conditions behind changes in the tongue, especially those related to Qi and blood stagnation. Tongue appearance not only reflects the state of Qi and blood in the body but also serves as an early warning for potential diseases. Through the analysis of tongue body, coating, cracks, and tip, we can identify typical tongue appearances associated with Qi and blood stagnation, such as dull tongue color, a swollen tongue body, a red tongue tip, and stasis under the tongue. These signs reveal internal issues of impaired Qi and blood circulation and blood stasis.
This article provides a detailed analysis of the tongue’s appearance, highlighting the connection between Qi and blood stagnation and factors such as liver Qi stagnation, internal heat due to Yin deficiency, and phlegm-damp obstruction. Targeted suggestions for improving health are also provided. In daily life, maintaining a positive mood, regular sleep, and appropriate exercise can help unblock Qi and blood, promoting circulation. The recommended dietary therapy and Chinese herbal formulas focus on activating Qi and blood, resolving stasis, and detoxifying to address internal blockages, improve the tongue’s appearance, and enhance overall health.
Through the structure optimization of this article, we have not only strengthened the professional knowledge of “Traditional Chinese Medicine Tongue Diagnosis” and “Qi and Blood Stagnation,” but also presented clear, organized treatment recommendations. This helps readers fully understand the causes and treatment methods of tongue appearance changes and offers a combination of theory and practice, further advancing the application of Qi and blood stagnation treatment techniques.
Overall, through the in-depth analysis of “Traditional Chinese Medicine Tongue Diagnosis” and treatment techniques for Qi and blood stagnation, we are better able to identify the flow of Qi and blood in the body. Timely adjustments to lifestyle, dietary habits, and the use of Chinese medicine can help achieve smooth Qi and blood circulation, leading to a harmonious and healthy body.
More Articles in “Tongue Physique”
- Tongue Image Body Type
- Qi Deficiency Body Type
- Qi Stagnation Body Type
- Damp-Heat Body Type
- Phlegm Dampness Body Type
- Blood Stasis Body Type
- Yang Deficiency Body Type
- Yin Deficiency Body Type
