How to Find Temporary Relief With Chinese Antitussive Herbs

Antitussive herbs are plants that possess properties which can stop coughs, wheezing and certain other respiratory problems like asthma, and also help to clear the phlegm that can cause nasal or chest congestion. Antitussive herbs are classified as phlegm-resolving herbs or aromatic dampness-resolving herbs.

In this article I will offer some tips on how to use Chinese antitussive herbs for finding temporary relief from some common ailments.

Instructions

1

One of the primary herbs for treating coughs and asthma is Xing Ren (Sm. Armenicae), which is apricot kernels. The nature of the herb is bitter and slightly warm and in traditional Chinese medicine is supposed to affect the lung and large intestine meridian channels. The herb should be cleaned and prepared, chopped and boiled in hot water for about 5 minutes. This herb contains natural emollients and oils, so you can also use it to treat bowel problems like constipation.

2

Phlegm-resolving herbs can help dissolve and excrete phlegm, which obstructs the lungs and nasal passages causing congestion and other medical complications. Chinese medical practitioners use certain herbs to treat these conditions like Ban Xia (Rz. Pinelliae). This herb is warm and pungent and affects the lungs, spleen and stomach meridian channels. Zhu Ru (Caulis Bambuseae in Taeniis) or Chinese bamboo is another herb that is used to treat phlegm congestion. This herb is cold and sweet and affects the lungs, stomach and gallbladder meridian channels. Clean the herb plant thoroughly in cool running water and let it dry. Prepare the herb and boil the plant or parts of the plant in boiling water for about 10 minutes. Allow to cool and use according to the medical instructions.

3

Aromatic dampness-resolving herbs possess properties that can invigorate your body and improve the transportation and transformation of food and fluids. These herbs are pungent, warm and drying. They affect the lung, spleen and stomach meridian channels, and are also good for relieving nausea and abdominal distention. Clean the plant and prepare the herb before cooking. Boil the herb in hot boiling water for about 10 minutes before use.

4

Herbal antitussive tea bags are a quick and easy way to take the herbs. Take one herbal tea bag and place it in a cup or pot of boiling water. Allow it to stand for several minutes to allow the herb to infuse out of the tea bag into the water. Add a slice of lemon or a teaspoon of natural organic honey for additional flavor. Only use the tea bag once, since the potency and effect will decrease significantly after the first use.