Can I eat Ophiopogon japonicus (Mai Dong) for a sore throat?

    Whether or not one can take Ophiopogon japonicus (McDoor) for pharyngitis depends on the specific cause of the pharyngitis. If it is caused by yin deficiency with fire hyperactivity, taking Ophiopogon japonicus under a physician's guidance is usually appropriate. However, if it is caused by external wind-heat, then taking Ophiopogon japonicus is not recommended. Detailed explanations are as follows:

    Ophiopogon japonicus has functions of nourishing yin and promoting body fluid production, clearing the heart, and moistening the lungs. It can help alleviate symptoms such as dryness and pain in the throat caused by yin deficiency with fire hyperactivity. If pharyngitis is due to yin deficiency with fire hyperactivity, moderate use of Ophiopogon japonicus may help nourish yin, reduce internal heat, and relieve inflammatory responses.

    However, if the pharyngitis is caused by external wind-heat, symptoms such as red, swollen throat, pain, fever, and chills may appear. At this time, treatment should focus on dispersing wind and clearing heat. Although Ophiopogon japonicus has some heat-clearing effects, it mainly nourishes yin and clears internal heat, thus having a weak effect on dispersing external wind-heat. Using Ophiopogon japonicus alone may fail to effectively control the condition and could even increase internal cold-dampness, which is not conducive to recovery.

    During episodes of pharyngitis, it is advisable to avoid consuming excessively cold or hot foods, as they may irritate the throat mucosa, leading to local congestion, edema, and worsening of symptoms.