Tongue Analysis For All Health Professionals With Dr. Rama Prasad DrRamaPrasad.Com AyurvedaMastery.Com

Transcription

1 1 Tongue Analysis For All Health Professionals With Dr. Rama Prasad

2 One in 12 Naadi Pulse Muutra Urine Malam Feces Jihvaa Tongue Shbdam Voice Sounds Sparsham Palpation Vibration Drig Iris Conjunctiva Aakriti Gate / posture Signs and Symptoms 2

3 3 5 Healer s Prayer Lord, Make me an instrument of your health Where there is sickness, let me bring cure; Where there is injury, aid; Where there is suffering, ease; Where there is sadness, comfort; Where there is despair, hope; Where there is death, acceptance and peace; Grant that I may not: So much seek to be justified, as to console; To be obeyed, as to understand; To be honoured, as to love... For it is in giving ourselves that we heal, It is in listening that we comfort, And in dying that we are born to eternal life. Prayer of St. Francis (Modified by Charles C. Wise)

4 4 R Analyzing tongue I start all my consultations with a tongue reading. I get them to start the analysis. In a very short few seconds they get all excited about what they see. Just for the fun, give a mirror and a tongue map to your client and get them to take a look at their own tongue and using tongue map. Observing 1. Tell your client that you are going to have a quick glance at their tongue. 2. Sit facing your client. 3. Align your client s shoulders, spine, neck and head if necessary. 4. Get them to open their mouth slowly that you can view their tongue clearly. 5. Use a LED light to see the tongue from various angles. Use the same light whenever possible. 6. Observe tongue for 10 secs x 3 times for the quality and its movement. 7. Record your observation, in simple and descriptive words. 8. Rule out disease of the tongue and effects of accidents, foods, medications and habits. 9. Discuss your client about your observation. I. Start with discussion of symptoms on tongue rather than prediction or diagnosis. E.g. I see a tension line on your right hip area. What do you feel there? How is it your abdomen? II. At the start, enquire about musculoskeletal symptoms. III. Then gradually move on to organs. Over time, we start seeing client s life. IV. Instead of trying to come up with a disease name, try to understand the qualitative changes pathology in the body.

5 5 Symptoms to ignore / consider Common situations that can mislead you are given below. Antibiotic pealing Food stain Smoking yellow discoloration / dryness Piercing deformity Accidents deformity Anatomical some people can t open their mouth fully Some terms to take away Agni Digestive and metabolic agents such as enzymes, acids and hormones. Ama Products of wrong digestion or metabolism. Ayurveda First holistic living and healing system. Dosha A categorizing technique that involves 3 factors such as Vata, Pitta and Kapha. Pitta dosha Unit of heat, expansion and transformation. Kapha dosha Unit of density and fluidity. Vata dosha Unit of knowledge, movement and rhythm. x

6 6 c Reasons for disease 1. Planetary 2. Genetics 3. Stress 4. Lack of vitality / immunity 5. Environmental factors 6. Incompatible life style factors such as rest, relationship, exercise, nutrition, work 7. Unfollowed seasonal routine 8. Weak digestion 9. Toxic cells, tissues, organs, systems 10. Dysfunctional channels 11. Disrupted metabolism

7 7 h Types of disease Zone Immunity Toxin Effect General/overall Low 1 Light, universal Fevers Specific organs/systems Low 2 In tissue Inflammation Specific organs/systems Low 3 In tissue Autoimmune Specific vital functions Lowest Turns off functions Degenerative

8 Pathology Pathogen localized > Local tissues attack > Inflammation 8 Location Skin Joint Sinus Gum Larynx Pharynx Bronchus Stomach Colon Holistic view on disease Body matches and mirrors mind. Mind is made of beliefs. Harmonious / accurate believes are mirrored by body in a healthy way. Disharmonious / inaccurate beliefs are mirrored by the body as illness. 2

9 What do you see on your tongue? 9 What are you looking for? What is seen One recipe in multiple disorders How come one recipe is effective in multiple disorders? 1

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12 Body map on tongue You are facing your client s tongue. 12

13 Ten tongue features And their applications Alignment Physical alignment 02 Colour Blood nutrient load 03 Edges Water, lymphatics. 04 Fur / coating Pathogen, toxicity. 05 Marks Pain, depletion, tension or blockage. 06 Movement Neuromuscular strength. 07 Shape Biological integrity. 08 Surface Evenness of nutrient supply. 09 Texture Immunity, tolerance. 10 Thickness Quantity nutrients and quality of tissues.

14 What could go wrong? 14 Criteria Aspect of life Healthy sign Unhealthy signs 01. Alignment Balance in life Centrally aligned Left/right aligned 02. Colour Immunity, energy Pinkish Dark, red, white 03. Edges Fluids, lymphatics Same as tongue body Thin, eroded, dent

15 Fur Undigested matter Thin, little, nice Gray, yellow, white 05. Marks Current issues Absent Cuts, ulcers, glassy 06. Movement Low energy, control Still Shaky, shivering

16 07. Shape Life, philosophy Oval Wide/narrow, long/short 08. Surface Energy supply Even Uneven, wrinkled 5 16

17 09. Texture Vitality, robustness Visible buds Dry, burnt, milky 10. Thickness Accumulation Translucent Thin, thick, hot, swollen 4 17

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19 Spine, disc and organs Table 19

20 Analysis 1 Client 20 Analysis 2 Same client as above

21 Analysis 1 Client 21 Analysis 2 Same client as above

22 Analysis 1 Client 22 Analysis 2 Same client as above

23 Analysis 1 Client 23 Analysis 2 Same client as above

24 Extra reading 24

25 Collected from various sources White Patches A white coating on your tongue could mean that you have a yeast overgrowth. But before you panic about yeast infections like candida, try brushing your tongue properly for a week and then see if the white patches or coating persist. Candida overgrowths often occur when you have been ill and have used antibiotics, or when your immune system is run down. Balancing your gastrointestinal environment with healthy levels of probiotics from fermented foods, good quality natural yoghurt, or a probiotic supplement can be a great way to restore gastrointestinal balance in the digestive tract. If the white patches persist, then see your physician as oral cancer can often start in these areas. 2. A Webbed or Striped Look This may be an indication of s chronic inflammatory autoimmune disease which is called Oral Lichen Planus. If you don t have pain, then your doctor may not treat the condition, but immune function plays a vital role in supporting your health, and ignoring immune system malfunction can be dangerous. Turmeric has been used for thousands of years to regulate and support the immune system. In a study published in the Natural Journal of Maxillofacial Surgery, researchers successfully used turmeric to treat Oral Lichen Planus. Turmeric is one of the 13 powerful antibiotics that don t require a prescription, but due to its low absorption and rapid metabolism you need to optimize turmeric absorption. You can also add turmeric to your diet by trying this golden milk recipe. 3. Ridges or Indentations When you examine your tongue, you may find a ridge running down the center of your tongue or ridges radiating out from the center. You may also find ridges along the edge area. Ridges are generally a natural part of the tongue and you don t need to be overly concerned about them. Just make sure you brush your tongue properly if the ridges are deep to eliminate any food that may be trapped in that area. 4. Red Tongue A healthy tongue is a rosy pink color. If you notice your tongue has become red, then you may need to pay attention and take action where necessary. Strep throat is often found in conjunction with a red tongue. Scarlet fever also causes a red tongue. If you have a red tongue and sore throat or some sort of infection, then chances are that it is related to your infection and your doctor will treat you accordingly. A red tongue can also be an indication of vitamin deficiencies, particularly deficiencies in vitamin B12, folic acid, or iron.[3] If the red tongue persists, then you should ensure your vitamin intake meets your body s needs. You can get familiar with the symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency and iron deficiency. 5. Bumps Tongue bumps can be an indication of various conditions. Bumps can be caused by physical trauma like biting your tongue. If that is the case, then you need not worry and your tongue will

26 most likely heal naturally. If you have mouth ulcers, then it may be an indication of stress, but you will do well to keep an eye on bumps. If the bumps are painful or if they do not go away naturally, then bumps could be an indication of oral cancer and you should see your physician to investigate. 6. Black Hairy Tongue This is possibly the most alarming sign you may see on your tongue in terms of what this looks like, but a black and hairy tongue is actually quite common and for the most part of no special concern. The little hairs on your tongue are called papillae and they grow throughout your lifetime. In some cases they become quite long and they may offer a safe place for bacteria that cause the black look. This look may be a result of poor oral hygiene, recent antibiotic use, or a fungal infection and can result in bad breath. An antibacterial mouth wash may be useful, or simply brushing the tongue with a soft toothbrush and toothpaste 2-3 times a day should help, but for the most part a black and hairy tongue is not an indication of serious underlying conditions. 7. Spots Certain spots on the tongue may also have some messages for you in terms of oral health. If you have on your tongue a mixture of red and white spots which sometimes looks like continents on a world map, then you have what is called geographic tongue. This condition is harmless. If your tongue has spots that look similar to cottage cheese then you may have oral thrush and this may be an indication of a weakened immune system. White patches that grow could be an indication of Leukoplakia which more commonly occurs in those who smoke or chronically drink alcohol. Although Leukoplakia is not inherently dangerous, you need to get your dentist to check it at your next visit as it can be a precursor to cancer. If the spots become sensitive or sore, or if ulcers persist, then it is best to get your physician to rule out disorders like oral cancer. 8. Macroglossia An enlarged tongue is often called Macroglossia. There are several reasons for this condition, such as genetic disorders, but an enlarged, sometimes protruding tongue, particularly in children, may be a sign of hypothyroidism. Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid is under-active. If you have noticed your child s tongue is larger than normal, then you need to consult your physician. 26

27 17 Signs from your tongue 27 Aside from just tasting the food we put in our mouth, our tongues can be an important gauge of overall health. From vitamin deficiencies to more serious health threats, your tongue is an easy route to figuring out what s going on underneath. Chinese and Western medicine have long been diagnosing illnesses and conditions based on the texture and colour of the tongue (so this isn t new information, to say the least). There are many warning signs your tongue may be sending you about your health, so grab a mirror, open wide and discover what your tongue is trying to tell you. If you recognize any of these symptoms, check with your doctor or dentist to get a proper diagnosis. 1. Bald Tongue If your tongue is smooth and pale, you may have what is called atrophic glossitis, an inflammatory condition that causes that tongue s papillae to die and shed, leaving behind a smooth, shiny tongue. This is usually caused by a B12 or iron deficiency. 2. White Coated Tongue Otherwise known as oral thrush caused by the yeast Candida albicans. This looks like white patches on the tongue, and lesions can develop and bleed slightly when scraped. Get rid of Candida in your body by consuming a low-fat plant-based diet high in fruit and vegetables and limited (or no) fat intake for a week or two. Also take grapefruit seed extract daily. 3. Black Hairy Tongue This is an odd one, but it does happen, and it isn t as bad as you may think. It is the result of bacterial overgrowth and signals that you need to up your oral hygiene game. It could also be the result of recent antibiotic use or a fungal infection. Bad breath or metallic taste in the mouth is often the symptom of this type of tongue. Brush the tongue with a tongue scraper 2-3 times a day to help resolve the issue. 4. Geographic Tongue This tongue type causes a map-like pattern of red spots to develop on the tongues surface. They will sometimes have a white border around them. There is no symptom of geographic tongue, other than the fact that your tongue will look like a 3D map of mountains and hills. Some people do experience sensitivity when eating hot, spicy, salty or acidic foods. Switching to a plant-based diet and clearing out the diet of junk food and drinking plenty of water should resolve this issue. 5. Too-Big Tongue Sometimes the tongue may look inflamed or too large for the mouth it s in. This could indicate that you have hypothyroidism, which means you aren t producing enough thyroid hormone. Healing the thyroid naturally is a thing check out the article I wrote here. 6. Canker Sores If your immune system is working hard at fighting off a cold or flu, or you re stressed out, you might be the victim of tongue canker sores. They can also pop up after consuming spicy food. They usually take awhile to heal (1 week or more), so be patient and swish your mouth with salt water twice a day to speed healing time. 7. Oral Fibroma If you have a small, raised bump on the side of your tongue you probably have what is called an oral fibroma. This isn t anything to be alarmed of oral fibroma s are simply a

28 build-up of soft tissue, and are caused by repeated trauma to the lips, inside of the cheeks or tongue. If you have an odd bump in your mouth, I suggest getting it looked at to make sure it isn t something more serious. 8. Wrinkly Tongue If your tongue has deep fissures and cracks on the surface or sides, you might just be getting old, but you also might have an autoimmune disorder. Fissures and cracks are normally harmless, but if you have poor dental hygiene, then an infection can develop in the crevices, which will lead to pain, foul smells and burning. Make sure you always brush your tongue well, and keep a clean mouth! If you re below the age of 60 and cracks make up the majority of your tongue, seeing a doctor would be wise to factor out any autoimmune conditions. 9. Burning and Tingling Sensations If your tongue tingles or burns a lot, it could be that you are using the wrong toothpaste, or that you are post-menopausal. Women are more likely to experience these sensations, but it could also be that you are having an allergy to certain toothpaste ingredients like sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS). Always opt for a fluorde-free, natural toothpaste. I love the brand Earthpaste, but if you are looking for something that foams up a bit more, dessert essence makes a toothpaste that is relatively chemical-free and tastes wonderful. 10. Small Patches of White Painless white patches are called leukoplakia and are usually found in those who smoke. These lesions have a 5-17% chance of developing into cancer, so if you do smoke, stopping immediately can completely reverse the condition. If you don t smoke, the patches could simply be a result of abrasion from a tooth constantly rubbing against the tongue. If it doesn t go away in a few weeks, go see a doctor. 10. Wrinkles It could mean: You re getting older (yes, even our tongues show signs of aging). Fissures and cracks in the tongue are typically harmless, but problems can arise if poor dental hygiene leads to infection within the crevices. Once in a while a fungal infection can develop inside the clefts, says Dr. Ramer. You will suddenly have pain, a foul smell, and sometimes burning. Often the infection is treated with a topical antifungal medication. Some dental appliances, like dentures, can also cause indentations on the tongue. Make sure your dental fixtures fit well, drink enough water, and practice good oral hygiene like brushing your tongue, says the dentist. 11. Small Patches of White It could mean: Something is irritating your mouth. Painless white patches (called leukoplakia) are caused by an excess growth of cells. Often associated with smokers, the lesions have about a 5 to 17 percent chance of developing into cancer. If you re a smoker, this is your body telling you that it s starting to develop these precancerous lesions, says Dr. Tylor. In many cases, leukoplakia can reverse when you stop smoking. Not a smoker? The patches can also sometimes result just from the abrasion of the tooth constantly rubbing against the tongue, says Dr. Cooper. But if it doesn t go away in a week or two, it s extremely important to see your dentist, who might recommend a biopsy. 12. Persistent Red Lesions It could mean: You have signs of tongue cancer. Not be confused with a 28

29 early stages. canker sore, which resolves itself within two weeks, red lesions or patches that don t go away could be serious. Get it checked immediately, doctors say. With tongue cancer, you often think of an older, unhealthy person, says Dr. Tylor. But if you re young and healthy and you have these, it doesn t mean you re OK. I ve seen it in a 17-year-old girl. Though typically attributed to tobacco use, oral cancer can also be caused by the HPV virus. Get it checked out even if it s not bothering you many oral cancers don t hurt in their Burning sensation It could mean: You re postmenopausal, or using the wrong toothpaste. If your tongue stings and burns as though it s been scalded but looks perfectly normal hormonal changes could be to blame. Though burning tongue syndrome can happen to anybody (it affects up to 15 percent of the population), women are seven times more likely to experience it than men. It s uncertain why this occurs, and the condition goes away in some individuals while it persists in others. Some people can also experience burning sensations from developing an allergy to certain toothpastes. An ingredient called sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), which helps toothpaste get foamy, can cause stinging sometimes suddenly. Someone might be using one toothpaste their entire life, and then suddenly, their mouth starts hurting, says Dr. Tylor. Switching to toothpaste without SLS, like Sensodyne, can help reduce some of the irritation. For other causes, a doctor may be able to prescribe treatments such as antibiotic rinses or pills for neuropathic pain. 16 bhills and Valleys It could mean: Absolutely nothing. A very normal, common condition, geographic tongue refers to a tongue that looks like bumpy terrain. Typically harmless, geographic tongue affects between 1 and 14 percent of the U.S. population. Though the cause isn t exactly clear, it could have to do with taste buds. Taste buds sometimes can randomly shrink away, says Dr. Tylor. They can regenerate, so some go away and some don t. Geographic tongue typically requires no treatment or checkup, but if it becomes painful, a doctor may be able to prescribe an anti-inflammatory steroid paste or antihistamine rinse. 17Painful Sores It could mean: You re stressed. Many people have had the unpleasant experience of a canker sore. These are punched-out, painful areas that occur on the tongue or cheeks. They are most painful for the first four to five days, then subside and eventually disappear within two weeks. We don t really know why people get canker sores, but it s probably something viral, says Dr. Tylor. People who are run down or stressed are prone to these ulcers. Good news for your partner: They re not contagious. Just make sure it s not a cold sore, which is an extremely contagious sore (caused by the herpes simplex virus) that typically appears on the lips.

30 30 Tongue reveals your health & life! Tongue is a window to body, mind and life. Body map on tongue Tongue shows pathology Ten features that talk to us A tongue analysis session