The ancient practice of tongue diagnosis, rooted in Ayurveda, can reveal surprising insights about your health. According to this system, your body is made up of five elements (air, earth, fire, water, and ether), forming three doshas: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha.
Each dosha influences the tongue’s appearance:
- Vata: Dry, rough, thin, and small tongue
- Pitta: Medium-sized, slightly dry, redder tongue
- Kapha: Pink, larger, moist tongue
When you check your tongue in the mirror, it may show signs of health issues like the following:
1. Cracks on the Tongue
Cracks, especially in the center or back of the tongue, may signal gut health problems such as leaky gut, food sensitivities, or allergies. These cracks often point to poor intestinal absorption.
2. Thick Mucous Layer
A normal tongue has a light film, but a greasy, thick yellow or white mucous may indicate toxin build-up in the intestines. If the mucous is concentrated in the middle, it points to issues in the small intestine. But, if it’s at the rear of the tongue, you might have colon problems.
3. Brown or Black Fuzz
While it may look alarming, brown or black fuzz is typically harmless. As Dr. Jack Der-Sarkissian explains, “Smoking, coffee, dark tea, and poor dental hygiene often cause this.” Removing the cause and scraping your tongue can clear it up.
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Additional Warning Signs to Watch For:
- Teeth Impressions: These may signal poor digestion, low stomach acid, or mineral deficiencies. Teeth imprints on the sides of the tongue often point to intestinal issues.
- Persistent Red Lesions: If red lesions on your tongue last more than a few weeks, this could be an early sign of tongue cancer. Don’t panic, but get it checked immediately.
How to Maintain a Healthy Tongue:
Using a tongue scraper once or twice daily helps detoxify your body, boost digestion, and support your internal organs. Monitoring your tongue regularly can help prevent major health issues, as positive changes reflect improvements in your overall health.
