What Your Tongue Says About Your Health

Not only does the tongue do much of the talking, but it also communicates so much about the state of our current health.

Learning to read the tongue is kind of like reading the tea leaves, but more scientific. Both Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and Ayurveda have been supporting these claims for hundreds of years.

As within, so without – the universal law of effect is at play here as it is in every other part of the universe.

The Colourful World of Tongues

The tongue’s hue and colour can be quite the storyteller:

1. 1. Pretty in Pink
      If your tongue is sporting a nice, light pink shade, give yourself a pat on the back! This usually means you’re in good health and staying hydrated. Keep up the good work!
      
   2. Seeing Red Whoa there, fire tongue!
      A bright red tongue might be trying to tell you something. It could be a sign of inflammation, infection, or even a vitamin B deficiency. If your tongue looks like it’s blushing, it might be time for a check-up.
      
   3. Pale as a Ghost Is your tongue looking a bit shy and pale?
      This could be a sign that you’re low on some important nutrients like iron or certain vitamins. It might also mean your blood isn’t circulating as well as it should. Time to beef up that diet!
   4. Purple Power If your tongue is channeling its inner grape, take note.
      A purple or blue tinge could indicate that your blood isn’t getting enough oxygen. This might be related to heart or lung issues, so it’s definitely worth mentioning to your doc.
   5. Mellow Yellow Sporting a yellow tongue?
      Your liver or gallbladder might be trying to send you a message. It could also mean you’ve got a build-up of bacteria hanging out in there. Either way, it’s time to step up your oral hygiene game! (Mayo Clinic)
   6. Back in Black A black tongue might look alarming, but don’t panic just yet.
      This could be due to a build-up of bacteria or yeast, often seen in smokers or as a side effect of certain medications. It’s also associated with poor oral hygiene, so maybe it’s time to show your tongue some extra love!

Texture Talk: What’s Your Tongue Feeling?

Now that we’ve covered colours, let’s get touchy-feely with textures:

Smooth Operator

More polished than marble? If your tongue feels as smooth as a baby’s bottom, it might actually be a cause for concern, especially if it’s accompanied by pain. This could indicate that you’re missing out on some crucial nutrients like iron, folic acid, or B vitamins. (Harvard Health)

Cracked Up

Does your tongue look like a road map? Some people naturally have a fissured or cracked tongue, which is usually harmless. However, sometimes it can be associated with psoriasis. If you’re concerned, it’s worth checking out.

Bumpy Road

Feeling some bumps or sores on your tongue? These could be the result of infections, injuries, or conditions like canker sores. In rare cases, they might indicate something more serious like oral cancer, so don’t hesitate to get them checked out if they persist.

Living on the Edge

Do you see teeth marks along the edges of your tongue? This jagged or scalloped appearance often results from your tongue pressing against your teeth. It could be a sign of teeth grinding, anxiety, or other dental issues. Maybe it’s time to look into that night guard your dentist mentioned! 

What’s That on Your Tongue?

Let’s talk about tongue coating, yes, that’s a thing:

1. White Out

   Is your tongue sporting a white coat? This thick white coating might be a sign of oral thrush (a fungal infection) or dehydration. It could also mean you need to step up your oral hygiene game. (Johns Hopkins Medicine)

2. Yellow Submarine

   A thick yellow or brown coating on your tongue is usually a sign of bacterial overgrowth. This can happen due to poor oral hygiene, smoking, or as a side effect of certain medications. Time to brush up on that brushing technique!

3. World Traveler

   Does your tongue look like it’s got a map of the world on it? This condition, known as geographic tongue, is characterized by map-like red patches. While it can be uncomfortable, it’s generally harmless and often linked to stress, allergies, or hormonal changes. 

Tongue TLC: Daily Practices for a Happy, Healthy Tongue

Now that you’re a tongue-observing pro, let’s talk about some daily practices to keep out of the dentist’s office and sincerely smiling from ear to ear.

Scrape It Off 

Tongue scraping might sound weird, but trust me, it’s a game-changer. This practice helps remove bacteria, food debris, fungi, and dead cells from your tongue’s surface. The result? Fresher breath and better overall oral hygiene. 

First thing in the morning, before you put anything in your mouth use a tongue scraper or even the edge of a spoon to gently scrape from the back of your tongue to the front, rinsing between strokes. You’ll be shook at the results.

Oil Pulling

Immediately after the scraping, begin swishing oil (like coconut, sesame, or sunflower oil) in your mouth to remove toxins and reduce bacteria. Oil pulling is an ancient practice and it works!

Take a tablespoon of oil and swish it around in your mouth for 5-10 minutes (yes, minutes!). Be sure to not not swallow any amount of oil whatsoever. 

Spit it out (not in the sink – it can clog pipes) and rinse with warm water.

Then floss, and brush your teeth as normal (ideally with some charcoal in the toothpaste but that’s another topic)

Clove Power 

Chewing on cloves is quite enjoyable, tasty and very effective in supporting oral health.

These little flavour bombs have antiseptic properties that can help fight bad breath oral bacteria and gum disease. 

Plus, they stimulate saliva production, which is great for your overall oral health. 

Just chew a few cloves in your mouth for a while, but be sure to not don’t swallow them.

The Tongue and Cheek of It All

Remember, while observing your tongue can provide valuable insights into your health, it’s not a substitute for regular check-ups with your healthcare provider. If you notice persistent changes in your tongue’s appearance or have concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to a professional.

Your tongue is an amazing little organ that does so much more than help you taste your favourite foods.

By paying attention to its colour, texture, and coating, you can gain valuable insights into your overall health. 

So next time you’re brushing your teeth, take a moment to say “Ahhh” and see what your tongue has to say!

As always, 

Flow Strong 

Asha ✨