The phlegm syndrome theory is original thinking of traditional Chinese medicine（TCM）

which is an important theoretical model of understanding and analyzing diseases of TCM

and also an effective theoretical tool to solve the current chronic complex diseases. After more than 2000 years of development

its concept and connotation have gone through the process of the independence

generalization and formation of disease and syndrome thinking. In terms of differentiation and treatment

the combination of the theory of phlegm syndrome and ideas such as identification of root and tip

discrimination of urgency

observance of pathogenesis

seeking the root of the disease has made it more widely and deeply popularized. In view of the characteristics of current chronic complex diseases

the theory of phlegm syndrome that meets the characteristics of the current disease spectrum should be rethought

reviewed

and relocated and the original theoretical advantages of TCM should be used to guide clinical practice more effectively and play a unique therapeutic role.