COUGH#1 (non-productive)

Suggested Dosage
2 tsp. in C warm water 1-6 times daily away from meals. Take one of the doses at bedtime and another during the night if still coughing. COUGH #1 is not used for the pattern of Wetness and Heat congesting in the lungs (see Cough #2). The dosage should be adjusted according to the severity of the cough. Reduce the dosage as the symptoms improve.

Cautions & Considerations
COUGH #1 is intended for acute coughs, it can be safely taken continuosly for up to two weeks. It can be taken along with antibiotics, but not with western drugs for coughing. The dosage should be adjusted according to the severity of the cough.

TCM Explanation of the Formula
A dry non-productive cough can be the result of taking drugs or even herbs that over dry the lungs.

If an acute cough with green/yellow mucous is not managed well, it can develop into a chronic dry cough. This indicates a weakening of the lungs moistening and spreading the qi function. Too much talking can also dry and weaken the lungs. COUGH #1 can be used as a follow up formula to Cough #2 (for cough with green/yellow mucous). A short course may be necessary to restore normal lung function.
In this case, coughing is caused primarily from dryness and irritation. This problem is addressed by Eriobotrya Leaf, Stemona Root, Tussilago Flower, Morus Leaf and Licorice Root. Eriobotrya also removes heat and sticky phlegm.

Stemona Root has an anti-spasmodic action to quickly stop the coughing reflex.

Tussilago Flower opens the lungs (bronchodilator) and is anti-inflammatory.

Morus Leaf is included in many upper respiratory conditions with lung wind heat symptoms. It is calming and cooling to the lungs.

Polygala Root is also calming to the whole chest area and helps stop coughing.

Licorice Root moistens and soothes the lungs and mildly strengthens qi.

Since heat is blocking the lung qi from circulating properly, herbs to open the lungs are necessary. Peucedanum Root, Platycodon Root, Aster Root, and Citrus Peel work well together for this function. Citrus Peel also has a mild tonify qi function.

It is important to restore the lung qi which has been weakened by the invasion of Wind Heat or by overuse (lecturing etc.). Codonopsis Root and Schizandra Fruit will strengthen the lungs without heating or drying them out. Schizandra Fruit is also used in this formula to help contain and stabilize the lung qi.

This formula is not a lung yin tonic. For a true yin deficiency cough, different herbs would be necessary. This formula would still help with the dryness and coughing, but it would not correct the underlying condition of yin deficiency.