Can Ophiopogon japonicus treat lung diseases?
Apr 27, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Xiuhong
Introduction
Ophiopogon japonicus (Mai Dong) has an adjunctive therapeutic effect on certain lung diseases, but it should be used according to TCM syndrome differentiation and cannot replace professional medical treatments. Mai Dong nourishes yin and moistens the lungs, helping to relieve symptoms such as dry cough, minimal phlegm, dry throat, and hoarseness caused by lung dryness. Its active components nourish lung yin, clear lung heat, and help restore normal lung function. It is particularly effective for symptoms such as coughing and unsatisfactory expectoration caused by yin deficiency and internal heat.
Generally, Ophiopogon japonicus (McDoor) has an auxiliary therapeutic effect on certain lung diseases, but it should be used according to TCM syndrome differentiation and cannot replace professional medical treatments. The detailed explanation is as follows:
Ophiopogon japonicus possesses functions of nourishing yin and moistening the lungs, which can help alleviate symptoms such as dry cough, minimal phlegm, dry throat, and hoarseness caused by lung dryness. Its active components nourish lung yin, clear lung heat, and help restore normal lung function. For cough and unsatisfactory phlegm expectoration caused by yin deficiency with fire hyperactivity, Ophiopogon japonicus can nourish yin to reduce fire activity and improve cough caused by lung yin deficiency. Additionally, Ophiopogon japonicus has effects of clearing heat and benefiting the throat, which can relieve symptoms such as redness, pain, dryness, and foreign body sensation in the throat, and promote the recovery of throat mucosa.
Ophiopogon japonicus contains mucilage, saponins, and amino acids. Mucilage and saponins effectively moisturize the lungs and reduce dry heat, while amino acids help improve gastrointestinal function, stimulate saliva and gastric juice secretion, and thereby indirectly support lung function. However, it should be used in moderation to avoid gastrointestinal discomfort caused by excessive use.
It is recommended to consult a qualified TCM practitioner or physician to ensure safety and effectiveness. Moreover, for severe lung diseases, timely medical consultation is necessary, and standardized treatment should be followed as per medical advice. During treatment, maintaining healthy lifestyle habits, such as quitting smoking, avoiding inhalation of harmful gases, and keeping indoor air fresh, is also important for promoting recovery.
