Can Houttuynia cordata relieve cough and expel phlegm?

Jul 22, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Sun Lianqing

Introduction

Under normal circumstances, Houttuynia cordata has a certain effect in relieving cough and expelling phlegm, but it should be consumed in moderation. However, its effect in alleviating cough and phlegm is auxiliary and primarily targets symptoms caused by lung heat; it may not be effective for other types of cough or phlegm. Additionally, Houttuynia cordata has a unique taste that some people may find unpleasant, and due to its cold nature, excessive consumption is not recommended.

Generally speaking, Houttuynia cordata has certain effects in relieving cough and expelling phlegm, but it should be consumed in moderation. Detailed analysis is as follows:

Houttuynia cordata is slightly cold in nature and pungent in taste. It has functions including clearing heat and detoxifying, reducing abscesses and discharging pus, and promoting diuresis and relieving urinary difficulties. It can help alleviate symptoms such as coughing and phlegm caused by excessive heat in the lungs. Moreover, active ingredients in Houttuynia cordata, such as houttuynin, have certain antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects. These components can reduce inflammatory responses in the respiratory tract, decrease mucus production, and also help thin mucus, making it easier to cough up, thereby relieving coughing and phlegm-related discomfort to some extent.

However, the cough-relieving and phlegm-expelling effects of Houttuynia cordata are auxiliary in nature and primarily target symptoms caused by excessive lung heat. It may not be as effective for other types of coughing and phlegm. Additionally, Houttuynia cordata has a unique taste, which some people may find difficult to accept. Due to its cold nature, excessive consumption should be avoided to prevent gastrointestinal irritation, especially for individuals with cold deficiency of the spleen and stomach who should consume it cautiously. Furthermore, if coughing or phlegm symptoms are severe or persist without improvement, relying solely on Houttuynia cordata is not advisable. Prompt medical consultation is necessary to determine the underlying cause and receive targeted treatment.

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What are the benefits of eating wild Houttuynia cordata?

Under normal circumstances, wild Houttuubu (Zhe'er Gen), a common edible and medicinal plant, offers several health benefits including clearing heat and detoxifying the body, promoting diuresis to reduce swelling, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects, stimulating appetite and aiding digestion, as well as assisting in lowering blood lipids. However, it should be noted that wild Houttuubu is cooling in nature, so individuals with spleen and stomach deficiency-cold should limit consumption to avoid discomfort such as bloating and diarrhea. It must also be thoroughly washed before eating.

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Can I long-term drink water infused with wolfberry (goji berries) and heartleaf (Houttuynia cordata) while taking antipsychotic medication for schizophrenia?

Under normal circumstances, it is generally safe to long-term consume goji berries and Houttuynia cordata (fish mint) infusion while taking antipsychotic medications. However, intake should be moderated to avoid excessive consumption that may cause gastrointestinal discomfort. Choose fresh, unspoiled goji berries and Houttuynia cordata to ensure the hygiene and safety of the brewed drink. There should be a time interval between medication intake and drinking the infusion to avoid potential indirect interactions. Maintain a balanced diet overall.