Can Houttuynia cordata relieve sore throat and swelling?
Jul 23, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lu Cheng
Introduction
For mild sore throat with slight redness and swelling caused by wind-heat感冒 or excessive internal heat, without significant difficulty in swallowing,适量 drinking decoction made from Houttuynia cordata (fish mint) may help alleviate local inflammation due to its heat-clearing and detoxifying properties. This may relieve the discomfort when used in conjunction with increased water intake. However, its effect is relatively mild and it cannot relieve sore throat caused by wind-cold感冒 or severe infection.
Generally, Houttuynia cordata may help alleviate mild sore throat caused by wind-heat or heat toxicity, but it is ineffective for sore throat resulting from wind-cold or severe infections. Detailed analysis is as follows:
For mild sore throat with slight redness and pain in the throat caused by wind-heat common cold or excessive internal heat, without significant difficulty swallowing, drinking an appropriate amount of Houttuynia cordata decoction may help reduce local inflammatory reactions through its heat-clearing and detoxifying effects. Combined with increased water intake, it may mildly relieve the discomfort.
If the sore throat is caused by a wind-cold common cold or presents with severe pain, fever, or other symptoms due to bacterial infection, Houttuynia cordata will not relieve the symptoms. In such cases, targeted treatment should be sought after identifying the exact cause. Improper use of Houttuynia cordata might delay appropriate intervention and potentially worsen discomfort due to its cold nature.
In daily life, it is important to maintain good oral hygiene, reduce intake of spicy and irritating foods, drink plenty of water, and seek timely medical attention if sore throat persists or worsens to prevent disease progression.
