What is the characteristic appearance of the tongue in blood deficiency?

The characteristic appearance of the tongue in cases of blood deficiency is pale and dry. In traditional Chinese medicine, the tongue reflects the state of the body’s internal organs and can provide insights into various health conditions. Blood deficiency, which may manifest as fatigue, pale complexion, and a range of other symptoms, causes the tongue to lose its healthy color and moisture.

A pale tongue indicates a lack of sufficient blood circulation and nourishment. Dryness on the tongue suggests that there is insufficient moisture, which corresponds with the body's overall deficiency in blood. Whereas a wet tongue generally signifies a state of excess fluid or phlegm in the body, and other appearances such as red and swollen tongues usually denote heat or inflammation. Therefore, the combination of a pale and dry tongue is indicative of blood deficiency and aligns with the foundational concepts in traditional Chinese medicine regarding the health of the individual.