Traditional Chinese Medicine Solutions for Coughs, Colds, Flu, and Allergies

Traditional Chinese medicine employs herbal remedies to address common colds, flu, coughs, and allergies. Similar to how Americans rely on over-the-counter drugs, people in China often use herbal formulas, many of which are derived from ancient recipes that have been in use for over two millennia.

This article highlights traditional Chinese patent medicines designed to alleviate symptoms of coughs, colds, flu, and allergies. These patent medicines offer an affordable and practical way to use Chinese medicinal herbs. They are typically available in easy-to-consume forms such as small round pills (wan), tablets (pian), syrups, or teas.

The initial traditional Chinese medicine we’ll explore addresses a condition familiar to many: nasal congestion and a runny nose caused by allergies or the common cold. Proceed to the next section for in-depth details.

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Traditional Chinese Nose Inflammation Pills

Chinese nose inflammation pills are a potent herbal solution for alleviating nasal congestion, runny nose, and symptoms associated with colds and allergies.

Chinese name: Bi Yan Pian (bee yahn pyen)

Also referred to as: Nose Inflammation Pills

Uses

Effective for both acute and chronic nasal congestion, allergies, and runny nose caused by the common cold

Benefits

Relieves wind cold or wind heat, opens up blocked nasal passages

Overview

Bi Yan Pian is a widely used over-the-counter medication known for its effectiveness in treating nasal and sinus congestion caused by colds, allergies, rhinitis, and sinusitis. Key herbal ingredients include magnolia flower (xin yi hua), Angelica dahurica (bai zhi), and Xanthium (cang er zi). While each herb works well on its own, their combined effect on the nasal passages and sinuses is truly exceptional.

After years of prescribing this remedy, the only side effect observed by an experienced practitioner was mild dryness in the mouth and throat, which occurred in just two cases. This issue was resolved by reducing the dosage.

This highlights the importance of tailoring herbal treatments to an individual's specific condition. The two individuals who experienced dryness had an underlying yin deficiency, meaning their bodies struggled to retain moisture. Herbs with drying properties, like those in this formula, can exacerbate such imbalances.

Bi Yan Pian is effective for sinus infections, featuring heat-clearing herbs like Phellodendron (huang bai), forsythia (lian qiao), Anemarrhena (zhi mu), and wild chrysanthemum (ye ju hua). When addressing infections, aggressive treatment is crucial to prevent progression to more severe conditions. This formula is often paired with infection-focused remedies such as Chuan Xin Lian Antiphlogistic pills.

When treating infections with herbs, it’s vital to start early, maintain consistent use until the infection clears, and continue for a day or two after symptoms disappear. Stopping treatment prematurely may leave residual bacteria, allowing the infection to recur. Recurring infections are harder to treat with the same herbs in subsequent rounds.

Previously, Bi Yan Pian had drawbacks, including artificial dyes in the tablet coating and traces of Western pharmaceuticals in some batches. These issues have been resolved in the Plum Flower product line, which avoids artificial colors, Western drugs, and adulterants. Many popular remedies are now available through Plum Flower.

Manufacturer: Plum Flower

Dosage: Take 3 to 4 pills three times daily. Avoid exceeding the recommended dose, as the formula contains slightly toxic Xanthium.

In the following section, discover a calming herbal cough syrup crafted using traditional Chinese methods.

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Traditional Chinese Cough Syrup

This traditional Chinese cough syrup is ideal for those with a dry cough, as it hydrates the lungs and aids in loosening phlegm.

Chinese name: Chuan Bei Pi Pa Gao (chwahn bay pee pah gow)

Also referred to as: Fritillaria Loquat Syrup

Uses

Effective for coughs caused by lung heat or dryness, especially when phlegm is hard to expel; also suitable for dry coughs with little to no phlegm

Benefits

Clears heat from the lungs, hydrates the lungs, and alleviates coughing

Overview

This calming syrup is ideal for lung dryness caused by wind heat, common colds, or smoking. Its primary ingredients are Fritillaria (bei mu) and loquat leaf (pi pa ye). Loquat leaf is particularly effective for heat-type coughs, characterized by sticky, hard-to-expel phlegm. The leaf is sourced from the same tree that bears the sweet loquat fruit (Eriobotrya japonica).

Fritillaria, the other key ingredient, acts as an expectorant and moisturizes the lungs, which is crucial for treating nonproductive coughs.

Manufacturer: Nin Jom Manufactory

Dosage: Take 1 tablespoon three times daily

In the following section, learn about a traditional Chinese medicine that addresses inflammation, swollen glands, and both bacterial and viral infections.

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Traditional Chinese Anti-inflammatory Tablets

Traditional Chinese anti-inflammatory tablets combine three powerful herbs to create a highly effective antibacterial and antiviral remedy.

Chinese name: Chuan Xin Lian (chwahn shin lyahn) Antiphlogistic Tablets

Also referred to as: Andrographis Anti-inflammatory Tablets

Uses

Effective for inflammation caused by excess heat, swollen glands, severe sore throat, and both viral and bacterial infections

Benefits

Clears heat, eliminates toxins, cools the blood, and reduces inflammation

Overview

This potent antibacterial and antiviral formula combines three key herbs: Andrographis leaf, Isatis root, and Taraxacum root (dandelion). Together, these ingredients create a strong cooling effect to combat toxic heat in the body. It is effective against bacterial infections like acute sore throat, swollen glands, lung abscess, pneumonia, urinary tract infections, and dysentery. It also addresses viral infections such as influenza and hepatitis.

The primary ingredient, Andrographis paniculata (chuan xin lian), has been proven to inhibit Staphylococcus, Streptococcus, and Shigella, which cause various infections. Known for its intense bitterness, its Chinese name translates to "pierce the heart lotus," reflecting its sharp, heart-piercing flavor.

An herbalist once recalled working in a Chinese herbal pharmacy and noticing an intensely bitter taste in his mouth. Upon turning around, he saw a teacher had opened the drawer containing Andrographis, located 20 feet away! Due to its extreme bitterness, Andrographis is typically consumed in pill form.

The second component, Isatis tinctoria (ban lang gen), also possesses antiviral and antibacterial properties. Its broad-spectrum antimicrobial action has been shown to combat bacteria responsible for dysentery, salmonella, strep infections, and typhoid. Isatis is particularly effective against viral infections like hepatitis and encephalitis, making it invaluable since Western medicine has limited options for treating viral conditions.

The third ingredient is the often-overlooked dandelion (pu gong ying), a key herb in both Western and Chinese herbal traditions. Traditionally used for treating breast abscesses, jaundice, and urinary tract infections, dandelion exhibits strong antibacterial effects against pathogens causing strep throat, pneumonia, dysentery, meningitis, diphtheria, and tuberculosis. This is especially remarkable considering dandelions are frequently targeted by herbicides in suburban lawns.

Manufacturer: United Pharmaceutical Manufactory

Dosage: Take 3 to 6 pills three times daily

The antioxidant benefits of green tea have gained significant attention in recent years. Next, discover a potent Chinese cold remedy specifically designed to be consumed with green tea.

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Traditional Chinese Green Tea Pills

Chinese green tea pills combine medicinal herbs whose therapeutic effects are amplified when taken with green tea. This formulation is widely used to alleviate headaches and nasal congestion.

Chinese name: Chuan Xiong Cha Tiao Wan (chwahn shuhng chah tyow wahn)

Also referred to as: Ligusticum and Green Tea Pills

Uses

Effective for headaches and nasal congestion caused by wind cold

Benefits

Alleviates headaches and dispels wind cold

Overview

This remedy is particularly effective for headaches accompanied by wind cold symptoms, such as stiff neck and shoulders, nasal congestion, a preference for warmth, and a slower pulse. It is designed to be taken with green tea, which enhances the therapeutic effects of the other herbs.

Recent studies highlight green tea's potent antioxidant properties, which help neutralize free radicals linked to aging and disease.

The primary herb in this formula is Ligusticum wallichii (chuan xiong), a fragrant plant known for its strong circulatory benefits. As a powerful analgesic, it effectively relieves headaches associated with colds and is commonly used in herbal formulas to target head-related issues.

Another key component is Notopterygium root, an aromatic herb that eases tension in the muscles of the shoulders and neck. Tightness in the trapezius muscles, which connect the upper back to the neck and head, can result in occipital headaches (pain at the base of the skull).

Angelica dahurica root (bai zhi) serves a dual purpose: it clears sinus and nasal congestion while alleviating frontal headaches (forehead pain). Wild ginger (xi xin), another analgesic herb in the formula, acts as a decongestant. Its North American counterpart, found in the coastal redwood forests of California, has a gingery flavor that numbs the tongue when chewed, showcasing its local anesthetic properties.

Chuan Xiong Cha Tiao Wan is also effective for dizziness and balance issues caused by labyrinthitis, an inner ear inflammation often following viral or bacterial infections. This remedy enhances blood circulation to the head, aiding recovery from a condition with no conventional cure.

Due to its warming nature, this remedy is unsuitable for headaches caused by wind heat, characterized by symptoms like sore throat, fever, and a rapid pulse, or headaches from liver heat rising, marked by a fast pulse, red face, and irritability. It should also be avoided for headaches stemming from deficiency conditions such as deficient qi, blood, or yin.

Manufacturer: Lanzhou Foci

Dosage: Take 8 pills three times daily

Did you know aged citrus peel, particularly aged tangerine peel, acts as an expectorant and aids digestion? In the next section, we’ll explore a Chinese cough remedy that features this remarkable ingredient.

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Traditional Chinese Two Old-Medicine Pills

The herbs in Chinese Two Old-Medicine Pills gain potency as they age. Combined, they effectively treat coughs accompanied by excessive phlegm.

Chinese name: Er Chen Wan (uhr chen wahn)

Also referred to as: Two Old-Medicine Pills

Uses

Effective for excessive phlegm in the lungs and stomach, often accompanied by nausea, and coughs with abundant clear mucus

Benefits

Balances qi, eliminates phlegm and dampness, and soothes the stomach

Overview

The two "old medicines" in the name refer to aged citrus peel (chen pi) and Pinellia tuber (ban xia). These herbs are believed to improve in quality as they age. Notably, Pinellia is toxic until aged and treated with ginger.

Citrus peel, the other key ingredient, is a fragrant and pleasant medicinal herb, especially when sourced from high-quality aged tangerine peels. Before discarding citrus peels, consider their benefits: they act as an expectorant, stimulate gastric juice secretion to aid digestion, and possess antibacterial properties.

This patent formula is ideal for damp phlegm coughs, characterized by the expulsion of large amounts of clear or light-colored phlegm. Beyond their drying and expectorant effects, the two main herbs in the formula also help reduce vomiting and nausea often associated with this condition.

If the cough stems from a common cold, combine this patent with a formula like Gan Mao Ling, which targets the pathogen responsible for the cold.

Manufacturer: Lanzhou Foci

Dosage: Take 8 pills three times daily

Numerous Chinese herbal remedies address coughs, sore throats, and other cold symptoms. Read on to discover one of the most popular options -- Gan Mao Ling.

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Traditional Chinese Cold Formula

Traditional Chinese Cold Formula is highly effective at the onset of a cold and remains equally potent as symptoms worsen. It can also be used as a preventive measure against colds.

Chinese name: Gan Mao Ling (gahn mao ling)

Also referred to as: Cold Formula

Uses

Effective for colds or flu caused by wind heat or wind cold, accompanied by fever, mild chills, sore throat, and stiff neck

Benefits

Expels wind, clears heat, and eliminates viruses

Overview

Gan Mao Ling's remarkable effectiveness has made it a highly popular patent remedy. It can be used to prevent colds after exposure or to treat colds and flu once symptoms appear. Often, just a few doses at the onset of symptoms can completely eliminate them, and it is equally effective for full-blown colds. This versatile formula works well for both cold and heat-related illnesses, making it an excellent foundational remedy.

For nasal and sinus congestion, it can be combined with Bi Yan Pian. If a sore throat accompanies the cold, it pairs well with Chuan Xin Lian Antiphlogistic Pills. For nausea or diarrhea, consider adding Curing Pills or Lophanthus Antifebrile (Huo Xiang Zheng Qi Wan).

This patent remedy has previously been compromised with artificial dyes and Western pharmaceuticals. The Plum Flower brand offers a pure, unadulterated version, making it a must-have for any first-aid kit. Manufacturer: Plum Flower

Dosage: Take 3 to 6 pills three times daily. To prevent a cold after exposure, take 2 tablets three times a day for three days.

A warm cup of tea can provide great comfort for those suffering from colds. Next, we’ll share details about a fruity instant tea used in Chinese medicine to alleviate coughing.

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Traditional Chinese Fruity Instant Tea

This Traditional Chinese Fruity Instant Tea has a sweet flavor, making it an ideal cough remedy for children.

Chinese name: Lo Han Kuo Infusion, Luo Han Guo Chong Ji (law hahn gwaw chung jee)

Also referred to as: Momordica Fruit Instant Tea

Uses

Effective for coughs caused by lung heat or dryness, often accompanied by sticky or bloody phlegm

Benefits

Clears heat from the lungs, hydrates the lungs, and alleviates cough

Overview

Luo Han Guo ("smiling Buddha fruit") is the key ingredient in this instant tea. This unique fruit has a round shape with a brittle, egg-like shell, containing sweet seeds inside. Its nourishing and hydrating properties make it perfect for treating lung dryness and unproductive coughs. The tea comes in cube form, dissolving in water to create a delicious beverage. Its sweet flavor is particularly appealing to children.

Manufacturer: Luo Han Guo Products Manufactory

Dosage: Dissolve one cube in a cup of boiling water, two to three times daily

Another traditional Chinese remedy for coughs is detailed in the next section. Continue reading to learn about Ephedra Apricot Stop Cough Tablets.

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Traditional Chinese Ephedra Apricot Stop Cough Tablets

Traditional Chinese Ephedra Apricot Stop Cough Tablets are potent herbal pills that effectively treat coughs, bronchitis, and mild asthma.

Chinese name: Ma Hsing Chih Ke Pien (mah shing jih keh pyen)

Also referred to as: Ephedra Apricot Stop Cough Tablets

Uses

Effective for coughs, bronchitis, or asthma caused by heat

Benefits

Clears heat from the lungs, alleviates asthma, and stops cough

Overview

While this formula is primarily used to treat bronchitis with yellow phlegm caused by heat, it is also effective for mild asthma cases. The rising number of asthma cases in America may be linked to factors like air pollution, chemical exposure, or increased stress. Many asthma patients depend on chemical inhalers daily, and some require frequent emergency room visits for acute asthma attacks.

Herbal medicine has proven highly effective in managing asthma. Results range from complete remission to significantly reduced reliance on inhalers.

The term 'ma' in this formula's name refers to ma huang, or Ephedra sinica. This potent herb contains ephedrine, a strong stimulant that dilates the bronchial tubes. During an asthma attack, narrowed bronchial tubes restrict airflow. While inhalers open these passages, Ephedra achieves the same effect naturally.

When used correctly, Ephedra is safe. However, some products misuse it as a stimulant for weight loss or recreational purposes, leading to overdoses and fatalities due to high levels of ephedrine and caffeine. This misuse undermines the value of an important medicinal herb. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is investigating such products, and some states have banned those with excessive ephedrine content.

Reputable practitioners in the U.S. hope that irresponsible manufacturers won’t lead to the removal of this beneficial herb from the market.

Ma Hsing Chih Ke Pien is also effective for heat-related coughs, accompanied by sore throat, dry cough, or swollen glands. For chronic asthma, it is best paired with Ping Chuan Pills, which include herbs that strengthen and tone the lungs.

In a Chinese clinical trial, the bulk version of this formula was administered to 40 children with asthma. All experienced temporary relief, and among the 19 with chronic asthma, only two had relapses within six months.

Warning: Ephedra may increase blood pressure and should be avoided by those with hypertension, heart disease, a history of stroke, or caffeine sensitivity. Taking it too close to bedtime may cause insomnia. Always adhere to recommended dosages.

Asthma can be life-threatening for many individuals. While herbal medicine can significantly aid in its management, always keep an inhaler on hand for emergencies, even if it seems unnecessary.

Manufacturer: Siping Pharmaceutical Works

Dosage: Take 4 pills two to three times daily

Colds, ear infections, and even malaria can be treated with a single Chinese herbal remedy. Discover this extraordinary treatment in the next section.

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Traditional Chinese Minor Bupleurum Pills

Traditional Chinese Minor Bupleurum Pills are known to boost the immune system, regulate liver function, address digestive issues, alleviate cold symptoms, and more.

Chinese name: Xiao Chai Hu Tang Wan (show cheye hoo tahng wahn)

Also referred to as: Minor Bupleurum

Uses

Effective for frequent colds and ear infections, colds with alternating fever and chills, and malaria

Benefits

Balances the body's interior and exterior, regulates liver function

Overview

This versatile patent remedy fits into multiple formula categories. In Japan, where Chinese herbal formulas have gained immense popularity over the past two decades, Minor Bupleurum is the most commonly prescribed formula by medical doctors. It is used to boost the immune system, treat hepatitis, and mitigate the side effects of radiation therapy. It also has antiallergy properties and is effective for prolonged flu, colds, and chronic digestive issues.

Consider the case of a man who returned from a trip to Indonesia. He suffered from headaches, extreme weakness, chills, fever, and sweats. From a Western perspective, these were classic malaria symptoms; from a traditional Chinese viewpoint, it was a shao yang condition, clearly indicating the need for Minor Bupleurum. Given the severity, he was prescribed a decoction of the formula three times daily.

After three days, his symptoms vanished completely. Three months later, mild symptoms reappeared, and he took the patent remedy at 16 pills three times daily, which resolved the issue. A year later, there was no recurrence of malaria. Manufacturer: Lanzhou Foci

Dosage: Take 8 pills three times daily

In Chinese medicine, there is a specific remedy for coughs accompanied by yellow or green phlegm. Continue reading for a detailed description of this treatment.

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Traditional Chinese Expectorant Pills

A cough producing yellow or green mucus often indicates an impending infection. Traditional Chinese Expectorant Pills are designed to clear mucus from the lungs and prevent infections.

Chinese name: Qing Qi Hua Tan Wan (ching chee hwah tahn wahn)

Also referred to as: Pinellia Expectorant Pills; Clear Lung, Expel Phlegm Pills

Uses

Effective for coughs caused by heat, with yellow or green phlegm that is hard to expel

Benefits

Clears heat from the lungs, eliminates phlegm, and stops cough

Overview

This is a go-to remedy for coughs caused by heat phlegm, characterized by heat signs, particularly the color of the mucus. Yellow or green phlegm that is hard to expel indicates a heat phlegm condition. Cooling, moistening expectorants are crucial to loosen and remove the phlegm from the lungs, preventing serious infections.

Initially, the pathogen (referred to as "evil qi" in traditional terms) is often a virus. If the immune system fails to fend off the invader, a cold or flu develops. During the illness, the lungs produce excessive mucus. Without expectorants, mucus accumulates, creating an environment for bacterial growth and opportunistic infections.

If green phlegm, signaling infection, is present, Chuan Xin Lian Antiphlogistic Pills should also be taken (3 to 6 pills, three times daily). When the mucus lightens in color and becomes easier to expel, the herbs are effective. Seek prompt medical attention if symptoms worsen.

Diet plays a crucial role alongside herbal therapy. Avoid sweets, as they increase phlegm and feed infections. Light vegetable soups are easy to digest and help clear mucus, supporting the herbal treatment. Do not use Pinellia Expectorant Pills for wind cold-related coughs.

Manufacturer: Lanzhou Foci

Dosage: Take 8 pills three times daily

Next, discover Traditional Chinese Asthma Relief Pills, a remedy designed to alleviate asthma and strengthen lung function.

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Traditional Chinese Asthma Relief Pills

Traditional Chinese Asthma Relief Pills are among several herbal remedies that effectively manage asthma symptoms. This formula also enhances lung function and boosts the immune system.

Chinese name: Ping Chuan (ping chwahn) Pills

Also referred to as: Relieve Asthma Pills

Uses

Chronic asthma and shortness of breath caused by qi deficiency; symptoms often worsen after physical activity or during a common cold

Benefits

Strengthens lung and kidney qi, alleviates coughing, and reduces phlegm

Overview

This remedy combines herbs with dual functions: it not only clears phlegm and soothes asthma but also includes tonifying herbs that strengthen the lungs, reducing susceptibility to future attacks. One such tonic herb is Codonopsis (dang shen), traditionally used to fortify the lungs and spleen (linked to digestive function in traditional Chinese medicine).

Modern research highlights Codonopsis's immune-boosting properties: its components stimulate the immune system and enhance interferon production, which combats viruses and regulates immunity. Another tonic ingredient, gecko lizard (ge jie), also strengthens the immune system.

Cordyceps, another dual-purpose tonic herb, enhances vitality and aids in bronchial tube dilation, improving breathing and clearing phlegm. Its Chinese name, dong chong xia cao, means "winter insect, summer herb," referencing its unique growth as a summer fungus on a caterpillar that died in winter.

This unusual substance significantly boosts overall vitality. Years ago, the Chinese women's Olympic swimming team broke multiple records, prompting suspicions of steroid use. However, tests revealed they were using Cordyceps to enhance performance! Manufacturer: Sing-Kyn Drug House

Dosage: Take 10 pills three times daily

If your symptoms include sore throat, fever, and headache, explore the Chinese herbal remedy detailed in the next section.

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Traditional Chinese Clear-Toxin Tablets

Traditional Chinese Clear-Toxin Tablets are most effective when taken at the onset of flu symptoms such as sore throat, fever, and headache. They also provide relief for fully developed flu symptoms.

Chinese name: Yin Qiao Jie Du Pian (yin chow jyeh doo pyen)

Also referred to as: Honeysuckle and Forsythia Clear-Toxin Tablets

Uses

Effective for acute symptoms of wind heat, including sore throat, fever, and headache

Benefits

Expels wind heat, clears heat, and eliminates toxins

Overview

Alongside Gan Mao Ling, this is one of the most widely used Chinese patent medicines. It is highly effective for treating wind heat-related colds or flu, where sore throat is the primary symptom. Other symptoms may include fever, aversion to wind and cold, headache, thirst, and cough.

While most effective at the onset of symptoms, this formula can also be used during full-blown flu. Yin Qiao Jie Du Pian is also effective for pneumonia, bronchitis, tonsillitis, measles, mumps, and inner ear infections.

Classical formulas often derive their names from their primary ingredients. The term 'yin,' meaning silver, comes from the Chinese name for honeysuckle (jin yin hua, or gold and silver flower). 'Qiao' is derived from the Chinese name for forsythia (lian qiao).

Honeysuckle and forsythia are frequently paired due to their combined antimicrobial effects. Research shows that honeysuckle flowers and forsythia fruit inhibit bacteria responsible for pneumonia, strep throat, staphylococcal infections, salmonella, and tuberculosis. Both have been used for thousands of years to treat fire toxins, including hot, painful, swollen throats; boils; fevers; and urinary tract infections.

Another key ingredient in Yin Qiao is Schizonepeta flowers (jing jie). The vibrant purple flower spikes are highly aromatic, giving the herb a dispersing quality. When the body is first invaded by a pathogen, aromatic herbs that disperse energy to the exterior are most effective in repelling the invader. The volatile essential oils open skin pores and act as a diaphoretic (promoting sweating). If the pathogen hasn't penetrated deeply, this dispersing effect helps expel it.

Although Schizonepeta is warm by nature, it is effective for heat conditions when combined with cooling herbs, as in this formula.

Manufacturer: Tianjin; Plum Flower. Some Yin Qiao brands contain caffeine or over-the-counter drugs. Always check the label to ensure the patent does not include caffeine, paracetamolum, or chlorpheniraminum.

Dosage: Take 4 tablets three times daily. This remedy is for acute conditions only; avoid prolonged use.

Continue to the next section to discover another traditional Chinese remedy widely used during flu season.

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Traditional Chinese Serious Cold Remedy

Traditional Chinese Serious Cold Remedy alleviates high fever, flu, pneumonia, and other conditions by clearing heat and toxins from the body.

Chinese name: Zhong Gan Ling (jung gahn ling)

Also referred to as: Serious Cold Remedy

Uses

Effective for wind heat flu-like symptoms, including high fever and sore throat

Benefits

Expels wind heat, clears heat, and eliminates toxins

Overview

While similar to Gan Mao Ling, Zhong Gan Ling focuses more on heat-related conditions. It includes gypsum (shi gao), a mineral used to reduce high fevers, and Isatis (ban lang gen), a potent antibacterial and antiviral herb effective against influenza, pneumonia, meningitis, mumps, and painful throat swelling.

Another key ingredient is Pueraria root (ge gen), also known as kudzu, often used in Asian cooking as a thickening agent. In Zhong Gan Ling, kudzu helps relax stiff neck and shoulder muscles, a common symptom of external conditions. (Interestingly, recent studies show kudzu extract reduces alcohol cravings, helping alcoholics cut consumption by 50 percent.)

It works synergistically with Notopterygium (qiang huo), another ingredient that alleviates upper body pain caused by colds or flu.

Manufacturer: Plum Flower. Only this brand should be used, as the Meizhou brand contains Western pharmaceuticals.

Dosage: Take 4 to 6 pills three times daily

Many of the traditional Chinese medicines discussed in this article have been used for thousands of years to treat cold and cough symptoms. The next time you experience symptoms like cough, sore throat, fever, shortness of breath, or congestion, consider these time-tested herbal remedies.

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ABOUT THE AUTHORS:

Bill Schoenbart holds licenses in both herbal medicine and acupuncture, along with an M.A. in Chinese medicine. He serves as the editor of The Way of Chinese Herbs and Biomagnetic and Herbal Therapy.

Ellen Shefi is a licensed massage therapist, acupuncturist, and registered dietitian. She is an active member of the American Association of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine, the American Herb Association, and the Oregon Acupuncture Association.