Old people's bad breath can be treated by massaging acupoints, namely Daling acupoint and Houxi acupoint.
Many elderly people suffer from bad breath, which can sometimes affect their social interactions. According to traditional Chinese medicine, bad breath in the elderly is often related to excessive heat in the spleen and stomach, as well as invasion of dampness and turbidity. It can be summarized in six words: "excessive gastric fire, heat in the intestines and stomach".
By regularly massaging the two acupoints on the hands, one can effectively clear heat, eliminate bad breath.
1. Daling acupoint
The Daling acupoint is located at the midpoint of the transverse crease of the wrist. It is an important acupoint for strengthening the spleen and can help dispel heat and dampness. Press the Daling acupoint on the right hand with the thumb of the left hand for 3-5 minutes, then switch sides. Apply moderate pressure during the massage, and it should feel slightly sore and tingling. Massaging the Daling acupoint can also relieve heel pain.
2. Houxi acupoint
The Houxi acupoint is easy to locate, as it is on the outer side of the base of the little finger, at the end of the transverse crease of the palm. You can massage it by slightly clenching your fist and using the thumb of the other hand to knead it for 5 minutes, until you feel a mild soreness. Then, massage the other side. Alternatively, you can place the area of the Houxi acupoint on both hands on the edge of a table and move your wrists back and forth to stimulate the acupoint. In addition to eliminating bad breath, massaging this acupoint can also prevent cervical and lumbar diseases.
It is important to note that bad breath may sometimes be caused by underlying medical conditions. A rotten apple or garlic odor could indicate diabetic ketoacidosis, while a urine-like odor may suggest kidney problems. Bad breath in patients with liver disease tends to have a foul odor. Therefore, if elderly people experience abnormal bad breath, it is best to seek medical advice to determine the underlying cause.
