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Your tongue can be a great indicator of your overall health. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, TCM, the tongue is used as a tool to diagnose your wellbeing and balance, as well as illnesses. TCM is a very ancient and in depth practice that we can't begin to cover in this article. Do some research into it if it's something that you think may be of benefit to you in your life. TCM takes the balance of mind, body, and spirit into account for your overall health and quality of life.
When you were a kid visiting the doctor one of the first things they would ask you to do is stick out your tongue. In TCM the practitioner will examine the shape, color, texture, and size of the patients tongue. The tongue can tell us a lot and can be a good source of information of how our bodies are functioning.
"The tongue can be a powerful gauge for your overall health."
White Patches:
White patches could be a sign of an infection or the side-effect of medications or diet. It could also be something more series like leukoplakia so let your doctor or dentist know about any white patches that you see. Most causes aren't series in nature. One of the most common causes is poor oral hygiene which can be changed with better oral health habits. Thin whitish coatings are present on healthy tongues so don't get over-alarmed if you see some white on your tongue.
Dehydration:
If you're dehydrated you might have a white layer on the tongue and it may have a rough surface. Increase your fluid intake for your overall health and check back on your tongue in a week.
Oral thrush;
Yeast infections can develop inside the mouth. It could be present if you observe white patches that look like cottage cheese. It's more common in denture wearers, diabetes patients, or people who are on certain medications. It can also present itself if you've been on antibiotics.
Vitamin deficiency:
Certain vitamin deficiencies may cause your tongue to appear very red. Nutritional deficiencies include iron, folate and vitamin B12 deficiency. B12 deficiency will also make the tongue sore and red in color. The tongue might also appear swollen.
"A healthy tongue should be covered with nodules and pink in color."
Healthy Tongues and Oral Health:
Your tongue should be pink, with a thin whitish coating on the surface. Papillae are also prevalent on a healthy tongue. These small nodules help you eat and taste your food. Although this is a general overview and a good indicator of a healthy tongue, there's more to take into account. TCM will interpret lines and creases in the tongue with the health and functioning of certain organs in the body. Do some research and learn more about TCM. It's a good eyeopener into how different body parts and organs are connected within our bodies.
Tongue scraping can remove harmful bacteria. You can also brush your tongue to remove harmful layers. A healthy mouth is essential for your overall health and well-being. You can shop for tongue scrapers anywhere online. It's also a good practice to get a good oral rinse for healthy gums. TheraBreath is a good brand of oral rinses but there are many on the market to choose from. They may cost a little more but your health is worth the investment.
Be sure to check with your Doctor and dentist if you have any areas of concern regarding your oral health. A healthy mouth is vital to a healthy mind and body so be sure to give your tongue a little extra attention and "TLC."
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