What Does the Colour of Your Phlegm Mean?

Key Takeaways

• In TCM, the colour and viscosity of your phlegm can tell you what type of cough your body is experiencing. 
• You should be mindful about what you eat when you have a cough and avoid foods that are deep-fried, spicy or cold to prevent triggering or worsening it.
• Herbal remedies that focus on strengthening the spleen-stomach and respiratory system can help boost the immune system and prevent coughs.

In Singapore where sudden weather changes are quite common, you might often find yourself developing a cough. However, it is important to note that not all coughs are the same. In TCM, the colour and viscosity of your phlegm can tell you what type of cough your body is experiencing. Knowing what type of cough you have is important for treating and managing it.

We spoke with Physician Lin Qing, a registered TCM practitioner in Singapore, who has over 30 years of experience practising TCM, to shed some light on the different types of phlegm and how you can alleviate
and prevent coughs.

White phlegm that is thin and foamy

If this is how your phlegm looks like, it is likely that you have a cold cough. This is usually accompanied by an itchy throat, body aches and a runny nose with clear/white nasal discharge.

Yellow phlegm that is thick and sticky

This is a sign that you have a heaty cough according to TCM. This is usually accompanied by signs and symptoms like a red tongue with yellow coating, sore throat, frequent coughing and dry mouth.

Minimal phlegm that is hard to expel

When you have white or yellow phlegm in small quantities, this is usually a sign of a dry cough. Unlike the above-mentioned types of cough, this cough is less productive and you might have an issue expelling the phlegm. This is usually accompanied by dry throat and lips.

What causes a cough?

In TCM, a cough is typically caused by exposure to external pathogens (风邪 fēng xié). But it can also be caused by an existing health condition like acute or chronic bronchitis. Combined with a poor diet and an unhealthy lifestyle, a cough can easily be triggered. Other causes of a cough include post-nasal drip (excess mucus dripping down the back of the nose and throat) and acid reflux.

Do I need to avoid eating food like chicken meat?

You may often hear from the elderly that you should avoid eating chicken meat when you have a cough. That is actually a myth. While you should be mindful of what you eat when you have a cough, chicken meat can be eaten in moderation, but avoid deep-fried chicken.

You should generally avoid eating food that is deep-fried, spicy or cold as they may trigger or worsen a cough. Before you consume any kind of liang teh (herbal tea), it is advisable to seek professional advice and figure out which cough you have to avoid worsening the condition.

The information above serves as a general guide only. Please consult a certified TCM practitioner for a more accurate diagnosis and treatment.