Herbal Remedies for Lung Qi Deficiency: Optimal Combinations and Ratios - Traditional Chinese Medicine

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Herbal formula for tonifying lung deficiency (Powdered Ginseng, Cordyceps, and Mother-of-Pearl in proportion)?


Hello, Doctor: I had a cold previously and improved with medication, but my cough has not completely resolved; it comes and goes.
The doctor I consulted mentioned that I have lung qi deficiency, some post-nasal drip, and a little phlegm stuck in my throat.
I was advised to take powdered Codonopsis pilosula and Cordyceps.
A colleague also suggested a combination of powdered Codonopsis pilosula, mother-of-pearl, and almonds, and I found online that mother-of-pearl seems to have phlegm-dissolving properties.
May I combine powdered Codonopsis pilosula, Cordyceps, and mother-of-pearl? What would be the recommended proportions? Additionally, I have researched that there is a difference in efficacy between Cordyceps mycelium and Cordyceps itself.
For daily maintenance, is it sufficient to use Cordyceps mycelium, or do you recommend using Cordyceps? Thank you for taking the time to clarify these questions; I greatly appreciate it.

Xiao Wen, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/12/09

Dr. Yan Sumei reply Traditional Chinese Medicine


Dear Online Friend Xiaowen,
After catching a cold, if you are experiencing persistent coughing, you might be considering a combination of Codonopsis pilosula (Dang Shen) + Cordyceps sinensis + Fritillaria bulb, or Codonopsis pilosula + Fritillaria bulb + Almonds for daily maintenance, correct? The issue with Cordyceps sinensis lies in the difficulty of distinguishing genuine products and their limited availability.
The mycelium of Cordyceps sinensis is where its main active components are found, and it is preferable to use the mycelium; however, both options are quite expensive.
Therefore, I recommend using Codonopsis pilosula + Chuan Bei Mu (Fritillaria) + Almonds, as they are more affordable, taste better, and have similar effects.
However, are you really considering trying medications based on your colleagues' suggestions? I recommend consulting a trusted and qualified Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) practitioner to discuss your thoughts and see if these remedies are appropriate for your current symptoms.
If the TCM practitioner believes these remedies are suitable for you, you can also ask about the proper proportions for the combination; they will professionally assess your condition and help you create an effective formulation.
If your symptoms are not suitable for these remedies, please ask the TCM practitioner to prescribe something else.
Wishing you health and safety!
Yours sincerely,
Yen Su-Mei,
Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nantou Hospital

Reply Date: 2016/12/09

More Info


When it comes to addressing Lung Qi deficiency, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) offers various herbal remedies that can be combined to enhance their therapeutic effects. In your case, you mentioned the use of powdered ginseng (粉光蔘), Cordyceps (冬蟲夏草), and mother-of-pearl (母貝), which are all known for their beneficial properties in supporting lung health and overall vitality.


Optimal Combinations and Ratios
1. Powdered Ginseng (粉光蔘): Ginseng is renowned for its ability to tonify Qi, particularly in cases of deficiency. It helps to boost energy levels and improve overall vitality. A common dosage for powdered ginseng is around 3-5 grams per day.

2. Cordyceps (冬蟲夏草): This fungus is known for its adaptogenic properties and is often used to enhance lung function and improve respiratory health. It can also help in boosting energy levels and has anti-inflammatory properties. The typical dosage for Cordyceps is about 1-3 grams of the powdered form or equivalent in extract.

3. Mother-of-Pearl (母貝): This substance is traditionally used to calm the spirit and alleviate cough. It is believed to have phlegm-resolving properties, making it beneficial for respiratory issues. The dosage for mother-of-pearl can vary, but around 1-2 grams is commonly used.


Suggested Combination
For a balanced approach, you might consider the following ratio:
- Powdered Ginseng: 3 grams
- Cordyceps: 2 grams
- Mother-of-Pearl: 1 gram
This combination can be taken once or twice daily, depending on your comfort and response to the herbs. It's essential to monitor how your body reacts to this combination, as individual responses can vary.


Differences Between Cordyceps Mycelium and Whole Cordyceps
You also mentioned the difference between Cordyceps mycelium and the whole Cordyceps. The mycelium is the vegetative part of the fungus, while the whole Cordyceps includes both the mycelium and the fruiting body. While both forms have health benefits, the whole Cordyceps is often considered more potent due to the presence of additional bioactive compounds found in the fruiting body. However, Cordyceps mycelium is still beneficial and can be a suitable option for daily maintenance.

For daily health maintenance, using Cordyceps mycelium can be effective, especially if you are looking for a more convenient option. However, if you are targeting specific health issues, such as significant lung Qi deficiency, incorporating the whole Cordyceps may provide enhanced benefits.


Additional Considerations
While herbal remedies can be beneficial, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional, particularly a TCM practitioner, to ensure that the chosen herbs are appropriate for your specific condition and to avoid any potential interactions with other medications you may be taking. Additionally, lifestyle factors such as diet, stress management, and adequate rest play a significant role in managing Lung Qi deficiency.

In summary, combining powdered ginseng, Cordyceps, and mother-of-pearl in the suggested ratios can be an effective strategy for addressing Lung Qi deficiency. Always listen to your body and adjust the dosages as needed, and consider seeking professional guidance for personalized recommendations.

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