Coughing in Traditional Chinese Medicine
Understanding different coughing patterns according to TCM theory
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Condition Categories
Condition Categories
Coughing is a reflex action the body employs to clear the throat and airways of mucus, fluid, irritants, foreign particles, and microbes. It is a common symptom that can be acute, lasting less than three weeks, or chronic, persisting for longer periods.
While often benign and self-limiting, persistent coughing can indicate a variety of underlying conditions, ranging from infections like the common cold to chronic lung diseases such as asthma or COPD. Understanding the nature and characteristics of a cough is crucial for diagnosis and treatment.
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) perceives coughing as a sign of disharmony within the body, often involving the lungs, spleen, and kidney channels. Unlike the symptomatic approach of Western medicine, TCM seeks to identify the underlying pattern of imbalance causing the cough.
This holistic perspective considers coughing a manifestation of factors such as external pathogens, internal organ imbalances, or Qi (vital energy) obstruction. Identifying the specific TCM pattern is essential, as treatments are tailored to correct these imbalances and restore harmony to the body's systems.
TCM Patterns for Coughing
Phlegm
Thick, sticky pathological fluid that obstructs body functions and can manifest anywhere in the body
Causes: Coughing
Phlegm is both a pathological product and a pathogenic factor in Traditional Chinese Medicine. It results from impaired fluid metabolism when the body's transformative functions fail, particularly affecting the Spleen, Lungs, and Kidneys. Classical texts emphasize that "the Spleen is the source of phlegm production, while the Lungs are the storage vessel for phlegm."
Cold-Phlegm in the Lungs
Coughing
Along with: White and watery sputum, Chills, Cold hands, Sputum, Dizziness, Stifling sensation in the chest, Feeling of heaviness
Damp-Phlegm in the Lungs
Coughing
Along with: Pale face, Sputum, Stifling sensation in the chest, Shortness of breath, Discomfort when lying down, Wheezing, Nausea, Feeling of heaviness, Dizziness, Profuse white sputum, Asthma, Chest distension
Phlegm-Fluids
Coughing
Along with: Abdominal distention, Vomiting clear liquid, Feeling of heaviness, Shortness of breath, Hypochondrial pain that is worse on coughing and breathing, Lack of sweating, Absence of thirst, Edema, Chest distension
Phlegm-Fluids above the diaphragm
Coughing
Along with: Asthma, Edema, Stifling sensation in the chest, Dizziness, Profuse white sputum
Phlegm-Fluids in the hypochondrium
Coughing
Along with: Hypochondrial pain that is worse on coughing and breathing, Shortness of breath, Hypochondriac distention
Phlegm-Fluids in the Lungs
Coughing
Along with: White and watery sputum, Shortness of breath, Gurgling noise in the chest, Stifling sensation in the chest, Feeling of heaviness, Dizziness, Chills, Cought with sticky phlegm, Itchy throat
Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs
Coughing
Along with: Shortness of breath, Wheezing, Stifling sensation in the chest, Sputum, Feeling of heat, Thirst, Head and body heaviness, Dizziness, Copious thick yellow sputum
Phlegm in the Lower Burner
Coughing
Along with: Throbbing below the belly button, Vomiting frothy saliva, Vertigo, Shortness of breath, Edema, Glomerulonephritis, Kidney infection, Nephrotic syndrome, Cystitis, Hydrocele
Qi Deficiency
Insufficient vital energy causing fatigue, weakness, poor digestion, and reduced function of organs and protective systems
Causes: Coughing
Qi Deficiency is a fundamental pattern in Traditional Chinese Medicine where the body's vital energy is insufficient to maintain normal physiological functions, leading to weakness, fatigue, and various organ dysfunctions.
Lung and Heart Qi Deficiency
Coughing
Along with: Shortness of breath, Weak voice, Dislike of speaking, Pale face, Frequent colds or flu, Generalized fatigue, Palpitations, Depression, Spontaneous sweat, Sighing
Lung Qi Deficiency
Coughing
Along with: Daytime sweating, Dislike of speaking
Qi Deficiency
Coughing
Along with: General weakness, Weak voice, Generalized fatigue, Apathy, Dislike of speaking, Spontaneous sweat, Frequent colds or flu, Loss of appetite, Diarrhea, Shortness of breath
Spleen and Lung Qi Deficiency
Coughing
Along with: Loss of appetite, Slight abdominal distension after eating, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Pale face, Weak limbs, Diarrhea, Obesity, Shortness of breath, Weak voice, Spontaneous sweat, Dislike of speaking, Frequent colds or flu, Aversion to cold
Wind-Cold-Damp invading with Qi Deficiency
Coughing
Along with: High fever, Fever without perspiration, Headaches, Neck pain, Stiff neck, Painful extremities, Focal distention, Chest distension, Congested nose, Noisy breathing
Heart and Spleen Qi and Blood Deficiency
Coughing
Along with: Palpitations, Poor memory, Restless sleeplessness, Fever, Loss of appetite, Generalized fatigue, Shortness of breath, Exertional dyspnea, Weight loss, Skin dryness
Lung Qi Deficiency and Liver Qi Stagnation
Coughing
Along with: Hypochondrial fullness and distention with pain alleviated by warmth, Dizziness, Headaches, Depression, Apathy, Moving pain, Hepatitis, Chronic cholecystitis, Chronic gastritis, Peptic ulcer
Wind
Causes sudden symptoms, movement disorders, and serves as the vehicle for other pathogens
Causes: Cough, Coughing
Wind is the predominant pathogenic factor of spring in Traditional Chinese Medicine and is considered the leader of the six external pathogens. Wind is described as "the leader of the hundred diseases" (百病之长), serving as the primary factor in external pathogenic invasions. Wind represents a pathogen characterized by constant movement, changeability, and a tendency to affect the upper and outer portions of the body.
Exterior Wind
Cough
Along with: Aversion to cold, Fever, Headaches, Wind phobia, Nasal discharge, Clear sputum, Itchy throat, Sneezing, Coughing, Muscle pain, Itchy skin
Wind-Cold-Water invading the Lungs
Cough
Along with: Ocular swelling, Shiny complexion, Scanty clear urination, Fever, Coughing, Shortness of breath, Aversion to cold, Facial edema
Wind-Cold
Coughing
Along with: Aversion to cold, Fever, Sneezing, Nasal discharge, Occipital headache, Occipital stiffness, Congested nose, White and watery sputum
Wind-Cold-Damp invading with Qi Deficiency
Coughing
Along with: High fever, Fever without perspiration, Headaches, Neck pain, Stiff neck, Painful extremities, Focal distention, Chest distension, Congested nose, Noisy breathing
Wind-Heat
Coughing
Along with: Aversion to cold, Fever, Sneezing, Nasal discharge, Occipital stiffness, Occipital headache, Excessive sweating, Sore throat, Yellowish phlegm
Wind-Heat invading the Lungs
Coughing
Along with: Aversion to cold, Fever, Sore throat, Congested nose, Nasal discharge, Copious thick yellow sputum, Sneezing, Headaches, Body pain, Thirst, Tonsil swelling
Cold
Congeals body fluids, damages Yang Qi, and causes pain with fixed location
Causes: Cough, Coughing
Cold is the predominant pathogenic factor of winter in Traditional Chinese Medicine. Cold represents an environmental pathogen that, when excessive, causes disease characterized by its cold, congealing, and contracting nature. While Cold is the main pathogen of winter, it can cause illness in any season through exposure to cold temperatures, getting caught in rain, sweating followed by wind exposure, or excessive air conditioning.
Wind-Cold-Water invading the Lungs
Cough
Along with: Ocular swelling, Shiny complexion, Scanty clear urination, Fever, Coughing, Shortness of breath, Aversion to cold, Facial edema
Cold-Phlegm in the Lungs
Coughing
Along with: White and watery sputum, Chills, Cold hands, Sputum, Dizziness, Stifling sensation in the chest, Feeling of heaviness
Dry-Cold
Coughing
Along with: Fever, Headaches, Aversion to cold, Skin dryness, Lack of sweating, Dry mouth, Dry throat, Scanty sputum
Wind-Cold
Coughing
Along with: Aversion to cold, Fever, Sneezing, Nasal discharge, Occipital headache, Occipital stiffness, Congested nose, White and watery sputum
Wind-Cold-Damp invading with Qi Deficiency
Coughing
Along with: High fever, Fever without perspiration, Headaches, Neck pain, Stiff neck, Painful extremities, Focal distention, Chest distension, Congested nose, Noisy breathing
Dampness
Heavy, sticky moisture that obstructs body functions and creates sluggishness
Causes: Cough, Coughing
Dampness manifests as swelling, bloating, a feeling of heaviness in the head and limbs, and digestive issues. It's like having waterlogged tissues that make everything feel heavy and slow. Common signs include a thick, greasy tongue coating, sticky mouth sensation, and stools that are difficult to flush.
Wind-Cold-Water invading the Lungs
Cough
Along with: Ocular swelling, Shiny complexion, Scanty clear urination, Fever, Coughing, Shortness of breath, Aversion to cold, Facial edema
Damp-Phlegm in the Lungs
Coughing
Along with: Pale face, Sputum, Stifling sensation in the chest, Shortness of breath, Discomfort when lying down, Wheezing, Nausea, Feeling of heaviness, Dizziness, Profuse white sputum, Asthma, Chest distension
Kidney Yang Deficiency with Water overflowing
Coughing
Along with: Edema of the lower extremities, Cold sensation in legs and back, Abdominal distention, Lumbar pain, Chills, Scanty clear urination, Palpitations, Shortness of breath, Cold hands, White and watery sputum, Asthma
Wind-Cold-Damp invading with Qi Deficiency
Coughing
Along with: High fever, Fever without perspiration, Headaches, Neck pain, Stiff neck, Painful extremities, Focal distention, Chest distension, Congested nose, Noisy breathing
Heat
Intense, ascending pathogenic force that consumes body fluids, disturbs the mind, and accelerates all physiological processes
Causes: Coughing
Heat is a major pathogenic factor in Traditional Chinese Medicine that can arise from external invasion or internal generation. Heat has the characteristics of burning intensity, rising upward, consuming qi and fluids, and generating wind and disturbing blood. In TCM philosophy, normal physiological warmth is called "minor fire" (少火) which maintains life functions, while pathological heat is "major fire" (壮火) which damages the body.
Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs
Coughing
Along with: Shortness of breath, Wheezing, Stifling sensation in the chest, Sputum, Feeling of heat, Thirst, Head and body heaviness, Dizziness, Copious thick yellow sputum
Toxic-Heat
Coughing
Along with: Fever, Edema, Pus and discharge, Boils, Carbuncles, Pustule, Red skin eruptions, Sore throat, Eczema, Perineum swollen, Prostate swollen, Testicular swelling, Mouth ulcers, Tonsil swelling
Wind-Heat
Coughing
Along with: Aversion to cold, Fever, Sneezing, Nasal discharge, Occipital stiffness, Occipital headache, Excessive sweating, Sore throat, Yellowish phlegm
Wind-Heat invading the Lungs
Coughing
Along with: Aversion to cold, Fever, Sore throat, Congested nose, Nasal discharge, Copious thick yellow sputum, Sneezing, Headaches, Body pain, Thirst, Tonsil swelling
Yang Deficiency
Insufficient yang qi causing coldness, fatigue, and diminished physiological functions throughout the body
Causes: Coughing
Yang Deficiency represents a fundamental weakness of the body's yang qi in Traditional Chinese Medicine. It manifests as an inability to warm the body, transform substances, and maintain normal physiological activities, resulting in various cold-type symptoms and functional decline.
Kidney Yang Deficiency
Coughing
Along with: Lower back pain, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Weak and cold knees, Lower back coldness, Chills, Weak legs, Bright pale face, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Leg edema, Female infertility, Diarrhea, Depression, Erectile dysfunction, Premature ejaculation, Oligospermia, Low sex drive, Pale and abudant urination, Constipation
Kidney Yang Deficiency with Water overflowing
Coughing
Along with: Edema of the lower extremities, Cold sensation in legs and back, Abdominal distention, Lumbar pain, Chills, Scanty clear urination, Palpitations, Shortness of breath, Cold hands, White and watery sputum, Asthma
Spleen or Kidney Yang Deficiency
Coughing
Along with: Abdominal pain that worsens with cold, Urinary dysfunction, Deep pain and heaviness in limbs, Dizziness, Heavy sensation in the head, Edema, Diarrhea, Palpitations, Vomit, Congestive heart failure
Qi Rebellion
Qi flowing against its natural direction, typically surging upward when it should descend
Causes: Coughing
Qi Rebellion represents a fundamental disruption in the body's energy flow, where qi moves against its proper direction - like water flowing uphill or smoke sinking downward. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, each organ has a natural directional flow for its qi, and when this flow reverses, it creates a cascade of symptoms that shoot upward through the body.
Rebellious Lung Qi
Coughing
Along with: Asthma, Nausea, Vomit, Dizziness, Headaches, Loss of consciousness
Rebellious Qi
Coughing
Along with: Hiccups, Belching, Nausea, Vomit, Asthma
Blood Deficiency
Insufficient blood to nourish the body, causing paleness, dizziness, and dryness throughout the system
Causes: Coughing
Blood Deficiency represents a fundamental lack of blood volume or quality in the body, resulting in organs, tissues, and the mind being undernourished. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, blood not only refers to the red fluid in our vessels but encompasses the body's entire nourishing and moistening functions.
Heart and Spleen Qi and Blood Deficiency
Coughing
Along with: Palpitations, Poor memory, Restless sleeplessness, Fever, Loss of appetite, Generalized fatigue, Shortness of breath, Exertional dyspnea, Weight loss, Skin dryness
Qi Stagnation
Blocked or disrupted flow of vital energy causing distending pain, emotional distress, and symptoms that worsen with stress
Causes: Coughing
Qi Stagnation is a fundamental pathological pattern in Traditional Chinese Medicine where the smooth flow of vital energy becomes obstructed, creating areas of pressure, pain, and dysfunction throughout the body.
Lung Qi Deficiency and Liver Qi Stagnation
Coughing
Along with: Hypochondrial fullness and distention with pain alleviated by warmth, Dizziness, Headaches, Depression, Apathy, Moving pain, Hepatitis, Chronic cholecystitis, Chronic gastritis, Peptic ulcer
Dryness
Depletes body fluids and primarily damages the lungs
Causes: Coughing
Dryness is the predominant pathogenic factor of autumn in Traditional Chinese Medicine. It represents environmental dryness that damages the body's fluids and particularly affects the respiratory system.
Dry-Cold
Coughing
Along with: Fever, Headaches, Aversion to cold, Skin dryness, Lack of sweating, Dry mouth, Dry throat, Scanty sputum
Herbal Formulas for Coughing
Traditional Chinese Medicine formulas used to address coughing
Si Jun Zi Tang
Addresses these coughing patterns:
Main Actions
- Tonifies Qi
- Strengthens the Spleen and Stomach
Addresses These Coughing Pattern Variations
Lung and Heart Qi Deficiency
How it manifests:
Coughing
Accompanying symptoms:
Shortness of breath, Weak voice, Dislike of speaking, Pale face, Frequent colds or flu, Generalized fatigue...
Lung Qi Deficiency
How it manifests:
Coughing
Accompanying symptoms:
Daytime sweating, Dislike of speaking
Qi Deficiency
How it manifests:
Coughing
Accompanying symptoms:
General weakness, Weak voice, Generalized fatigue, Apathy, Dislike of speaking, Spontaneous sweat...
Spleen and Lung Qi Deficiency
How it manifests:
Coughing
Accompanying symptoms:
Loss of appetite, Slight abdominal distension after eating, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Pale face, Weak limbs...
Er Chen Tang
Addresses these coughing patterns:
Main Actions
- Dries Damp and dispels Phlegm
- Regulates Qi and harmonizes the Middle Burner (Stomach and Spleen)
Addresses These Coughing Pattern Variations
Damp-Phlegm in the Lungs
How it manifests:
Coughing
Accompanying symptoms:
Pale face, Sputum, Stifling sensation in the chest, Shortness of breath, Discomfort when lying down, Wheezing...
Phlegm-Fluids
How it manifests:
Coughing
Accompanying symptoms:
Abdominal distention, Vomiting clear liquid, Feeling of heaviness, Shortness of breath, Hypochondrial pain that is worse on coughing and breathing, Lack of sweating...
Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs
How it manifests:
Coughing
Accompanying symptoms:
Shortness of breath, Wheezing, Stifling sensation in the chest, Sputum, Feeling of heat, Thirst...
Ling Gan Wu Wei Jiang Xin Tang
Addresses these coughing patterns:
Main Actions
- Warms the Lungs
- Transforms congested Fluids
Addresses These Coughing Pattern Variations
Cold-Phlegm in the Lungs
How it manifests:
Coughing
Accompanying symptoms:
White and watery sputum, Chills, Cold hands, Sputum, Dizziness, Stifling sensation in the chest...
Phlegm-Fluids above the diaphragm
How it manifests:
Coughing
Accompanying symptoms:
Asthma, Edema, Stifling sensation in the chest, Dizziness, Profuse white sputum
Phlegm-Fluids in the Lungs
How it manifests:
Coughing
Accompanying symptoms:
White and watery sputum, Shortness of breath, Gurgling noise in the chest, Stifling sensation in the chest, Feeling of heaviness, Dizziness...
Wu Ling San
Addresses these coughing patterns:
Main Actions
- Promotes urination,
- Warms the Yang
- Strengthens the Spleen
- Promotes Qi transformation function
- Drains Dampness
- Clears edema
Addresses These Coughing Pattern Variations
Kidney Yang Deficiency with Water overflowing
How it manifests:
Coughing
Accompanying symptoms:
Edema of the lower extremities, Cold sensation in legs and back, Abdominal distention, Lumbar pain, Chills, Scanty clear urination...
Phlegm-Fluids
How it manifests:
Coughing
Accompanying symptoms:
Abdominal distention, Vomiting clear liquid, Feeling of heaviness, Shortness of breath, Hypochondrial pain that is worse on coughing and breathing, Lack of sweating...
Phlegm in the Lower Burner
How it manifests:
Coughing
Accompanying symptoms:
Throbbing below the belly button, Vomiting frothy saliva, Vertigo, Shortness of breath, Edema, Glomerulonephritis...
Yin Qiao Jie Du Wan
Addresses these coughing patterns:
Main Actions
- Clear Heat by releasing the Exterior
- Clears the Toxic-Heat
Addresses These Coughing Pattern Variations
Toxic-Heat
How it manifests:
Coughing
Accompanying symptoms:
Fever, Edema, Pus and discharge, Boils, Carbuncles, Pustule...
Wind-Heat
How it manifests:
Coughing
Accompanying symptoms:
Aversion to cold, Fever, Sneezing, Nasal discharge, Occipital stiffness, Occipital headache...
Wind-Heat invading the Lungs
How it manifests:
Coughing
Accompanying symptoms:
Aversion to cold, Fever, Sore throat, Congested nose, Nasal discharge, Copious thick yellow sputum...
Yin Qiao San
Addresses these coughing patterns:
Main Actions
- Disperses Wind Heat
- Clears Heat
- Resolves Toxicity
Addresses These Coughing Pattern Variations
Toxic-Heat
How it manifests:
Coughing
Accompanying symptoms:
Fever, Edema, Pus and discharge, Boils, Carbuncles, Pustule...
Wind-Heat
How it manifests:
Coughing
Accompanying symptoms:
Aversion to cold, Fever, Sneezing, Nasal discharge, Occipital stiffness, Occipital headache...
Wind-Heat invading the Lungs
How it manifests:
Coughing
Accompanying symptoms:
Aversion to cold, Fever, Sore throat, Congested nose, Nasal discharge, Copious thick yellow sputum...
Bing Peng San
Addresses these coughing patterns:
Main Actions
- Clears Toxic-Heat
- Dispels putrescence
- Reduces swellings and relieves pain
Addresses These Coughing Pattern Variations
Toxic-Heat
How it manifests:
Coughing
Accompanying symptoms:
Fever, Edema, Pus and discharge, Boils, Carbuncles, Pustule...
Wind-Heat
How it manifests:
Coughing
Accompanying symptoms:
Aversion to cold, Fever, Sneezing, Nasal discharge, Occipital stiffness, Occipital headache...
Cong Chi Tang
Addresses these coughing patterns:
Main Actions
- Unblocks the Yang Qi (Defensive Qi) in the Exterior
- Induces sweating
Addresses These Coughing Pattern Variations
Wind-Cold
How it manifests:
Coughing
Accompanying symptoms:
Aversion to cold, Fever, Sneezing, Nasal discharge, Occipital headache, Occipital stiffness...
Wind-Heat
How it manifests:
Coughing
Accompanying symptoms:
Aversion to cold, Fever, Sneezing, Nasal discharge, Occipital stiffness, Occipital headache...
Huo Ren Cong Shi Tang
Addresses these coughing patterns:
Main Actions
- Unblocks the Yang Qi (Defensive Qi) in the Exterior
- Induces sweating
Addresses These Coughing Pattern Variations
Wind-Cold
How it manifests:
Coughing
Accompanying symptoms:
Aversion to cold, Fever, Sneezing, Nasal discharge, Occipital headache, Occipital stiffness...
Wind-Heat
How it manifests:
Coughing
Accompanying symptoms:
Aversion to cold, Fever, Sneezing, Nasal discharge, Occipital stiffness, Occipital headache...
Jin Fei Cao San
Addresses these coughing patterns:
Main Actions
- Disperses Wind-Cold
- Descends Lung Qi
- Transform Phlegm
- Stop cough and calms wheezing
Addresses These Coughing Pattern Variations
Rebellious Lung Qi
How it manifests:
Coughing
Accompanying symptoms:
Asthma, Nausea, Vomit, Dizziness, Headaches, Loss of consciousness
Wind-Cold
How it manifests:
Coughing
Accompanying symptoms:
Aversion to cold, Fever, Sneezing, Nasal discharge, Occipital headache, Occipital stiffness...
Ling Gui Zhu Gan Tang
Addresses these coughing patterns:
Main Actions
- Warms and transforms Phlegm-Fluids
- Strengthens the Spleen
- Resolves Dampness
Addresses These Coughing Pattern Variations
Cold-Phlegm in the Lungs
How it manifests:
Coughing
Accompanying symptoms:
White and watery sputum, Chills, Cold hands, Sputum, Dizziness, Stifling sensation in the chest...
Phlegm-Fluids
How it manifests:
Coughing
Accompanying symptoms:
Abdominal distention, Vomiting clear liquid, Feeling of heaviness, Shortness of breath, Hypochondrial pain that is worse on coughing and breathing, Lack of sweating...
Liu Jun Zi Tang
Addresses these coughing patterns:
Main Actions
- Tonifies Qi
- Strengthens the Spleen and Stomach
- Clears Phlegm and mucus
- Promotes appetite
Addresses These Coughing Pattern Variations
Qi Deficiency
How it manifests:
Coughing
Accompanying symptoms:
General weakness, Weak voice, Generalized fatigue, Apathy, Dislike of speaking, Spontaneous sweat...
Spleen and Lung Qi Deficiency
How it manifests:
Coughing
Accompanying symptoms:
Loss of appetite, Slight abdominal distension after eating, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Pale face, Weak limbs...
Pu Ji Xiao Du Yin
Addresses these coughing patterns:
Main Actions
- Clears Toxic-Heat
- Clears Wind-Heat
Addresses These Coughing Pattern Variations
Toxic-Heat
How it manifests:
Coughing
Accompanying symptoms:
Fever, Edema, Pus and discharge, Boils, Carbuncles, Pustule...
Wind-Heat
How it manifests:
Coughing
Accompanying symptoms:
Aversion to cold, Fever, Sneezing, Nasal discharge, Occipital stiffness, Occipital headache...
Ren Shen Ge Jie San
Addresses these coughing patterns:
Main Actions
- Tonifies the Qi
- Augments the Kidneys
- Stops coughing
- Arrests wheezing
Addresses These Coughing Pattern Variations
Lung Qi Deficiency
How it manifests:
Coughing
Accompanying symptoms:
Daytime sweating, Dislike of speaking
Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs
How it manifests:
Coughing
Accompanying symptoms:
Shortness of breath, Wheezing, Stifling sensation in the chest, Sputum, Feeling of heat, Thirst...
Sang Ju Yin
Addresses these coughing patterns:
Main Actions
- Disperses Wind
- Stops coughing by invigorating Lung Qi
- Clears Heat
Addresses These Coughing Pattern Variations
Toxic-Heat
How it manifests:
Coughing
Accompanying symptoms:
Fever, Edema, Pus and discharge, Boils, Carbuncles, Pustule...
Wind-Heat
How it manifests:
Coughing
Accompanying symptoms:
Aversion to cold, Fever, Sneezing, Nasal discharge, Occipital stiffness, Occipital headache...
Su Zi Jiang Qi Tang
Addresses these coughing patterns:
Main Actions
- Directs rebellious Qi downward
- Arrests wheezing
- Stops coughing
- Warms and transforms Phlegm-Cold
Addresses These Coughing Pattern Variations
Rebellious Lung Qi
How it manifests:
Coughing
Accompanying symptoms:
Asthma, Nausea, Vomit, Dizziness, Headaches, Loss of consciousness
Rebellious Qi
How it manifests:
Coughing
Accompanying symptoms:
Hiccups, Belching, Nausea, Vomit, Asthma
Wen Dan Tang
Addresses these coughing patterns:
Main Actions
- Clears Phlegm
- Clears Gallbladder
- Regulates Qi
- Harmonizes the Stomach
Addresses These Coughing Pattern Variations
Phlegm-Fluids
How it manifests:
Coughing
Accompanying symptoms:
Abdominal distention, Vomiting clear liquid, Feeling of heaviness, Shortness of breath, Hypochondrial pain that is worse on coughing and breathing, Lack of sweating...
Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs
How it manifests:
Coughing
Accompanying symptoms:
Shortness of breath, Wheezing, Stifling sensation in the chest, Sputum, Feeling of heat, Thirst...
Xiao Qing Long Tang
Addresses these coughing patterns:
Main Actions
- Releases the Exterior
- Transforms Phlegm-Fluids
- Warms the Lungs
- Directs Rebellious Qi downward
Addresses These Coughing Pattern Variations
Wind-Cold-Water invading the Lungs
How it manifests:
Cough
Accompanying symptoms:
Ocular swelling, Shiny complexion, Scanty clear urination, Fever, Coughing, Shortness of breath...
Phlegm-Fluids above the diaphragm
How it manifests:
Coughing
Accompanying symptoms:
Asthma, Edema, Stifling sensation in the chest, Dizziness, Profuse white sputum
Ba Wei Di Huang Wan
Addresses these coughing patterns:
Main Actions
- Tonifies Yang
- Warms the Kidneys and lower extremities
Addresses These Coughing Pattern Variations
Kidney Yang Deficiency
How it manifests:
Coughing
Accompanying symptoms:
Lower back pain, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Weak and cold knees, Lower back coldness, Chills...
Bai Hu Tang
Addresses these coughing patterns:
Main Actions
- Clears Qi-level Heat
- Drains Stomach Fire
- Generates fluids
- Alleviates thirst
Addresses These Coughing Pattern Variations
Toxic-Heat
How it manifests:
Coughing
Accompanying symptoms:
Fever, Edema, Pus and discharge, Boils, Carbuncles, Pustule...
Bao Yuan Tang
Addresses these coughing patterns:
Main Actions
- Tonifies the Qi and warms the Yang
Addresses These Coughing Pattern Variations
Lung and Heart Qi Deficiency
How it manifests:
Coughing
Accompanying symptoms:
Shortness of breath, Weak voice, Dislike of speaking, Pale face, Frequent colds or flu, Generalized fatigue...
Bu Fei Tang
Addresses these coughing patterns:
Main Actions
- Augments the Qi
- Stabilizes the Exterior
Addresses These Coughing Pattern Variations
Lung Qi Deficiency
How it manifests:
Coughing
Accompanying symptoms:
Daytime sweating, Dislike of speaking
Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang
Addresses these coughing patterns:
Main Actions
- Tonifies Qi of the Spleen and Stomach (Middle Burner)
- Raises the Yang
- Detoxifies
- Lifts what has sunken
Addresses These Coughing Pattern Variations
Spleen and Lung Qi Deficiency
How it manifests:
Coughing
Accompanying symptoms:
Loss of appetite, Slight abdominal distension after eating, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Pale face, Weak limbs...
Chai Hu Shu Gan San
Addresses these coughing patterns:
Main Actions
- Disperses Stagnant Liver Qi and Blood
- Alleviates pain
- Harmonizes Blood
Addresses These Coughing Pattern Variations
Rebellious Qi
How it manifests:
Coughing
Accompanying symptoms:
Hiccups, Belching, Nausea, Vomit, Asthma
Chuan Xiong Cha Tiao San
Addresses these coughing patterns:
Main Actions
- Disperses Wind
- Relieves headaches
Addresses These Coughing Pattern Variations
Exterior Wind
How it manifests:
Cough
Accompanying symptoms:
Aversion to cold, Fever, Headaches, Wind phobia, Nasal discharge, Clear sputum...
Er Qing Gao
Addresses these coughing patterns:
Main Actions
- Clears Toxic-Heat
- Disperses swelling
- Relieves pain
Addresses These Coughing Pattern Variations
Toxic-Heat
How it manifests:
Coughing
Accompanying symptoms:
Fever, Edema, Pus and discharge, Boils, Carbuncles, Pustule...
Fang Feng Tong Sheng San
Addresses these coughing patterns:
Main Actions
- Disperses Wind
- Releases the Exterior
- Drains Heat
- Unblocks the bowels
Addresses These Coughing Pattern Variations
Wind-Heat
How it manifests:
Coughing
Accompanying symptoms:
Aversion to cold, Fever, Sneezing, Nasal discharge, Occipital stiffness, Occipital headache...
Gan Lu Xiao Du Dan
Addresses these coughing patterns:
Main Actions
- Resolves Dampness and transforms turbidity
- Clears Heat and resolves Toxicity
Addresses These Coughing Pattern Variations
Toxic-Heat
How it manifests:
Coughing
Accompanying symptoms:
Fever, Edema, Pus and discharge, Boils, Carbuncles, Pustule...
Huang Lian Jie Du Tang
Addresses these coughing patterns:
Main Actions
- Drains Fire
- Resolves Toxin
Addresses These Coughing Pattern Variations
Toxic-Heat
How it manifests:
Coughing
Accompanying symptoms:
Fever, Edema, Pus and discharge, Boils, Carbuncles, Pustule...
Ji Sheng Shen Qi Wan
Addresses these coughing patterns:
Main Actions
- Tonifies the Kidneys
- Warms Yang
- Promotes water transformation
- Reduces water retention
Addresses These Coughing Pattern Variations
Kidney Yang Deficiency with Water overflowing
How it manifests:
Coughing
Accompanying symptoms:
Edema of the lower extremities, Cold sensation in legs and back, Abdominal distention, Lumbar pain, Chills, Scanty clear urination...
Jia Wei Xiang Su San
Addresses these coughing patterns:
Main Actions
- Promote sweating
- Releases the Exterior
Addresses These Coughing Pattern Variations
Wind-Cold
How it manifests:
Coughing
Accompanying symptoms:
Aversion to cold, Fever, Sneezing, Nasal discharge, Occipital headache, Occipital stiffness...
Jing Fang Bai Du San
Addresses these coughing patterns:
Main Actions
- Releases the Exterior by sweating
- Dispels Wind and Dampness
- Augments Qi
- Reduces pain
Addresses These Coughing Pattern Variations
Wind-Cold
How it manifests:
Coughing
Accompanying symptoms:
Aversion to cold, Fever, Sneezing, Nasal discharge, Occipital headache, Occipital stiffness...
Jing Jie Lian Qiao Tang
Addresses these coughing patterns:
Main Actions
- Dispels Wind
- Clears toxic-Heat
- Disperses Stagnation
Addresses These Coughing Pattern Variations
Wind-Heat
How it manifests:
Coughing
Accompanying symptoms:
Aversion to cold, Fever, Sneezing, Nasal discharge, Occipital stiffness, Occipital headache...
Jiu Wei Qiang Huo Tang
Addresses these coughing patterns:
Main Actions
- Induces sweating
- Dispels Dampness
- Expels Wind-Cold
- Clears Interior Heat
Addresses These Coughing Pattern Variations
Wind-Cold
How it manifests:
Coughing
Accompanying symptoms:
Aversion to cold, Fever, Sneezing, Nasal discharge, Occipital headache, Occipital stiffness...
Jiu Xian San
Addresses these coughing patterns:
Main Actions
- Secures the Lungs
- Stops coughing
- Augments Qi
- Nourishes Yin
Addresses These Coughing Pattern Variations
Lung Qi Deficiency
How it manifests:
Coughing
Accompanying symptoms:
Daytime sweating, Dislike of speaking
Ju Pi Zhu Ru Tang
Addresses these coughing patterns:
Main Actions
- Directs rebellious Qi downward
- Stops hiccup
- Augments Qi
- Clears heat
Addresses These Coughing Pattern Variations
Rebellious Qi
How it manifests:
Coughing
Accompanying symptoms:
Hiccups, Belching, Nausea, Vomit, Asthma
Ma Huang Tang
Addresses these coughing patterns:
Main Actions
- Releases exterior cold
- Treats wheezing
Addresses These Coughing Pattern Variations
Wind-Cold
How it manifests:
Coughing
Accompanying symptoms:
Aversion to cold, Fever, Sneezing, Nasal discharge, Occipital headache, Occipital stiffness...
Ma Xing Shi Gan Tang
Addresses these coughing patterns:
Main Actions
- Invigorates Lung Qi
- Clears Heat
- Calms wheezing by directing rebellious Qi downward
Addresses These Coughing Pattern Variations
Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs
How it manifests:
Coughing
Accompanying symptoms:
Shortness of breath, Wheezing, Stifling sensation in the chest, Sputum, Feeling of heat, Thirst...
Pi Pa Qing Fei Yin
Addresses these coughing patterns:
Main Actions
- Clears Lung Heat
- Cools the Blood
- Clears Dampness
- Invigorates the Blood
Addresses These Coughing Pattern Variations
Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs
How it manifests:
Coughing
Accompanying symptoms:
Shortness of breath, Wheezing, Stifling sensation in the chest, Sputum, Feeling of heat, Thirst...
Qing Qi Hua Tan Wan
Addresses these coughing patterns:
Main Actions
- Clears Heat
- Transforms Phlegm
- Directs Rebellious Qi downwards
- Stops coughing
Addresses These Coughing Pattern Variations
Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs
How it manifests:
Coughing
Accompanying symptoms:
Shortness of breath, Wheezing, Stifling sensation in the chest, Sputum, Feeling of heat, Thirst...
Qing Xin Li Ge Tang
Addresses these coughing patterns:
Main Actions
- Clears Toxic-Heat
- Unblocks the stool
- Benefits the throat
Addresses These Coughing Pattern Variations
Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs
How it manifests:
Coughing
Accompanying symptoms:
Shortness of breath, Wheezing, Stifling sensation in the chest, Sputum, Feeling of heat, Thirst...
Qing Ying Tang
Addresses these coughing patterns:
Main Actions
- Clears the Nutritive level Heat
- Relieves Fire Toxin
- Removes Heat
- Nourishes Yin
Addresses These Coughing Pattern Variations
Toxic-Heat
How it manifests:
Coughing
Accompanying symptoms:
Fever, Edema, Pus and discharge, Boils, Carbuncles, Pustule...
Ren Shen Bai Du San
Addresses these coughing patterns:
Main Actions
- Releases the Exterior
- Dispels Wind and Dampness
- Augments Qi
Addresses These Coughing Pattern Variations
Wind-Cold-Damp invading with Qi Deficiency
How it manifests:
Coughing
Accompanying symptoms:
High fever, Fever without perspiration, Headaches, Neck pain, Stiff neck, Painful extremities...
Ren Shen Yang Rong Tang
Addresses these coughing patterns:
Main Actions
- Tonifies Qi and Blood
- Nourishes the Heart
- Calms the Mind
- Warms Yang
- Strengthens the Spleen and Lungs
Addresses These Coughing Pattern Variations
Heart and Spleen Qi and Blood Deficiency
How it manifests:
Coughing
Accompanying symptoms:
Palpitations, Poor memory, Restless sleeplessness, Fever, Loss of appetite, Generalized fatigue...
San Zhong Kui Jian Tang
Addresses these coughing patterns:
Main Actions
- Clears Heat and resolves Toxicity
- Reduces swelling
- Induces ulceration
- Moves the Blood and dispels stasis
Addresses These Coughing Pattern Variations
Toxic-Heat
How it manifests:
Coughing
Accompanying symptoms:
Fever, Edema, Pus and discharge, Boils, Carbuncles, Pustule...
San Zi Yang Qin Tang
Addresses these coughing patterns:
Main Actions
- Directs the Qi downward
- Transforms Phlegm
- Reduces harbored food
Addresses These Coughing Pattern Variations
Cold-Phlegm in the Lungs
How it manifests:
Coughing
Accompanying symptoms:
White and watery sputum, Chills, Cold hands, Sputum, Dizziness, Stifling sensation in the chest...
Shi Shen Tang
Addresses these coughing patterns:
Main Actions
- Releases pathogens from the Exterior
- Regulates Qi
- Descends the Lung Qi
- Relieves coughing
Addresses These Coughing Pattern Variations
Wind-Cold
How it manifests:
Coughing
Accompanying symptoms:
Aversion to cold, Fever, Sneezing, Nasal discharge, Occipital headache, Occipital stiffness...
Shi Wei Bai Du San
Addresses these coughing patterns:
Main Actions
- Dispels Wind and transforms Dampness
- Clears Toxic Heat
Addresses These Coughing Pattern Variations
Toxic-Heat
How it manifests:
Coughing
Accompanying symptoms:
Fever, Edema, Pus and discharge, Boils, Carbuncles, Pustule...
Shi Zao Tang
Addresses these coughing patterns:
Main Actions
- Purges and drives out Phlegm-Fluids
Addresses These Coughing Pattern Variations
Phlegm-Fluids in the hypochondrium
How it manifests:
Coughing
Accompanying symptoms:
Hypochondrial pain that is worse on coughing and breathing, Shortness of breath, Hypochondriac distention
Si Ni San
Addresses these coughing patterns:
Main Actions
- Regulates Liver and Spleen
- Eliminates Internal Heat
Addresses These Coughing Pattern Variations
Rebellious Qi
How it manifests:
Coughing
Accompanying symptoms:
Hiccups, Belching, Nausea, Vomit, Asthma
Wu Ji San
Addresses these coughing patterns:
Main Actions
- Releases the Exterior
- Warms the Interior
- Smoothes the flow of Qi
- Transforms Phlegm
- Invigorates the Blood
- Reduces Stagnation
Addresses These Coughing Pattern Variations
Wind-Cold
How it manifests:
Coughing
Accompanying symptoms:
Aversion to cold, Fever, Sneezing, Nasal discharge, Occipital headache, Occipital stiffness...
Xi Jiao Di Huang Tang
Addresses these coughing patterns:
Main Actions
- Treats severe fevers and Heat in the Blood system
- Removes Blood Stagnation
Addresses These Coughing Pattern Variations
Toxic-Heat
How it manifests:
Coughing
Accompanying symptoms:
Fever, Edema, Pus and discharge, Boils, Carbuncles, Pustule...
Xiao Chai Hu Tang
Addresses these coughing patterns:
Main Actions
- Treats the Lesser Yang Channels (Gallbladder and Triple Warmer)
- Regulates the Liver and Spleen functions
- Addresses combined Yin-Yang symptoms of External and Internal, Excess and Deficiency, and Hot and Cold
Addresses These Coughing Pattern Variations
Lung Qi Deficiency and Liver Qi Stagnation
How it manifests:
Coughing
Accompanying symptoms:
Hypochondrial fullness and distention with pain alleviated by warmth, Dizziness, Headaches, Depression, Apathy, Moving pain...
Xiao Feng San
Addresses these coughing patterns:
Main Actions
- Disperses Wind
- Eliminates Dampness
- Clears Heat
- Cools the Blood
- Nourishes the Blood
- Relieves skin itchness
Addresses These Coughing Pattern Variations
Wind-Heat
How it manifests:
Coughing
Accompanying symptoms:
Aversion to cold, Fever, Sneezing, Nasal discharge, Occipital stiffness, Occipital headache...
Xin Yi Qing Fei Yin
Addresses these coughing patterns:
Main Actions
- Spreads Lung Qi
- Clears Heat
- Unblocks the orifices (specifically the nose)
Addresses These Coughing Pattern Variations
Toxic-Heat
How it manifests:
Coughing
Accompanying symptoms:
Fever, Edema, Pus and discharge, Boils, Carbuncles, Pustule...
Xing Su San
Addresses these coughing patterns:
Main Actions
- Clears Dry-Cold
- Disseminates the Lung Qi and relieves cough
- Transforms thin mucus
Addresses These Coughing Pattern Variations
Dry-Cold
How it manifests:
Coughing
Accompanying symptoms:
Fever, Headaches, Aversion to cold, Skin dryness, Lack of sweating, Dry mouth...
Xuan Fu Dai Zhe Tang
Addresses these coughing patterns:
Main Actions
- Regulates the downward flow of Stomach Qi
- Expectorant, treats hiccups
Addresses These Coughing Pattern Variations
Rebellious Qi
How it manifests:
Coughing
Accompanying symptoms:
Hiccups, Belching, Nausea, Vomit, Asthma
Zhen Wu Tang
Addresses these coughing patterns:
Main Actions
- Warms and tonifies the Yang and Qi of the Spleen and Kidneys
- Eliminates Dampness
Addresses These Coughing Pattern Variations
Spleen or Kidney Yang Deficiency
How it manifests:
Coughing
Accompanying symptoms:
Abdominal pain that worsens with cold, Urinary dysfunction, Deep pain and heaviness in limbs, Dizziness, Heavy sensation in the head, Edema...
Zhi Gan Cao Tang
Addresses these coughing patterns:
Main Actions
- Augments the Qi
- Nourishes Yin
- Nourishes the Blood
- Restores the pulse
Addresses These Coughing Pattern Variations
Lung Qi Deficiency
How it manifests:
Coughing
Accompanying symptoms:
Daytime sweating, Dislike of speaking
Zhi Sou San
Addresses these coughing patterns:
Main Actions
- Transforms Phlegm and stops coughing
- Disperses the Exterior
- Spreads the Lung Qi
Addresses These Coughing Pattern Variations
Phlegm-Fluids in the Lungs
How it manifests:
Coughing
Accompanying symptoms:
White and watery sputum, Shortness of breath, Gurgling noise in the chest, Stifling sensation in the chest, Feeling of heaviness, Dizziness...
Zhu Ye Cheng Liu Tang
Addresses these coughing patterns:
Main Actions
- Releases the Exterior
- Vents rashes
- Clears
- Generates Body Fluids
Addresses These Coughing Pattern Variations
Wind-Heat
How it manifests:
Coughing
Accompanying symptoms:
Aversion to cold, Fever, Sneezing, Nasal discharge, Occipital stiffness, Occipital headache...
Zi Dang Gao
Addresses these coughing patterns:
Main Actions
- Clears Heat and cools the Blood
- Resolves toxicity
- Moistens Dryness
- Relieves pain and itching
Addresses These Coughing Pattern Variations
Toxic-Heat
How it manifests:
Coughing
Accompanying symptoms:
Fever, Edema, Pus and discharge, Boils, Carbuncles, Pustule...
You Gui Wan
Traditional formula for coughing
Main Actions
- Warms and tonifies Kidney Yang
- Replenishes the Essence
- Tonifies the Blood