Examining your tongue is a practice rooted in ancient Ayurvedic medicine, which emphasizes holistic health through a deep understanding of the body’s systems.

According to this tradition, our bodies are composed of five fundamental elements—air, earth, fire, water, and ether—that combine to form three primary doshas: vata (air and ether), kapha (earth and water), and pitta (fire and water).

Different types of tongues reflect these doshas: a vata tongue tends to be rough, dry, thinner, and smaller; a pitta tongue is medium-sized, slightly dry, and reddish; while a kapha tongue is pink, larger, fuller, and somewhat moist.

By examining your tongue in front of a mirror, you might uncover clues about potential health issues:

• Cracks: If you notice cracks, particularly in the middle or back of your tongue, it might suggest digestive issues like intestinal malabsorption, hypersensitivity, or food allergies.

• Mucus: A healthy tongue has a normal coating, but if you see thick, oily, yellow, or white mucus, it could indicate an accumulation of toxins. Mucus in the middle of the tongue may point to problems in the small intestine, while mucus at the back could suggest colon issues.

• Dark or Black Coating: A dark, furry appearance on the tongue, often linked to smoking, excessive coffee or tea consumption, or poor oral hygiene, is generally not serious. Dr. Jack Der-Sarkisian from Kaiser Permanente advises that eliminating these habits and maintaining good oral care usually resolves this issue.

• Dental Impressions: Imprints or indentations on the sides of the tongue can signal issues with mineral absorption or digestive health. They may also indicate low stomach acid levels.

• Persistent Red Lesions: While red lesions might be a warning sign of tongue cancer, they are often confused with blisters or spots that resolve on their own within a couple of weeks. However, any persistent red lesions should be examined promptly to determine their cause.

Maintaining a clean tongue can support the health of your internal organs. Regular brushing with a tongue brush helps detoxify, improve absorption, and enhance overall bodily functions. Daily attention to your tongue is a valuable preventive measure that can help you monitor and improve your health.