Can Lao Xiang Huang treat cough caused by a cold?

Aug 20, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Sun Lianqing

Introduction

Under normal circumstances, Lao Xiang Huang (a traditional herbal remedy) may help alleviate certain types of cough caused by the common cold, but it cannot replace medical treatment for the cold itself or provide a complete cure for coughing. Therefore, to effectively address cold-related coughing, it is important to first determine the type of cold. If the cough is due to mild phlegm-dampness, moderate use of Lao Xiang Huang may help improve symptoms. However, if the cough persists or worsens, timely and targeted medical treatment should be sought.

Generally, Lao Xiang Huang (aged preserved melon) may help alleviate coughs caused by certain types of common colds, but it cannot replace medical treatment for the cold itself or cure coughing completely. Detailed analysis is as follows:

Lao Xiang Huang is made from pickled chayote. According to traditional Chinese medicine, it has properties of promoting qi circulation, resolving phlegm, harmonizing the stomach, and moistening the lungs. For mild phlegm-related coughs and sore throat caused by the common cold, Lao Xiang Huang might help relieve symptoms by soothing the respiratory tract and promoting the expulsion of phlegm. However, coughs associated with colds can have various causes. If the cough is due to bacterial or viral infections, or if it is accompanied by fever, or if the sputum contains blood, Lao Xiang Huang will not address the underlying problem and excessive reliance on its consumption may delay appropriate treatment. Furthermore, during the pickling process, significant amounts of sugar and salt are added to Lao Xiang Huang. Overconsumption could irritate the throat mucosa, potentially worsening the cough and increasing the body's metabolic burden.

Therefore, to alleviate cold-related coughs, it is important to first identify the type of cold. If the cough is a mild phlegm-related type, moderate consumption of Lao Xiang Huang may assist in symptom relief. However, if the cough persists or worsens, timely targeted medical treatment should be sought, along with maintaining a bland diet and drinking plenty of warm water to support the body's recovery.

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Can Lao Xiang Huang (Old Fragrant Yellow) help to counteract alcohol and protect the liver?

Under normal circumstances, Lao Xiang Huang (a type of preserved fruit) cannot truly relieve the effects of alcohol or protect the liver. Its claimed effects on alcohol metabolism and liver protection lack scientific evidence, and excessive consumption may even cause discomfort. In daily life, if alcohol consumption is necessary, one should control the amount and avoid excessive drinking to prevent liver damage. The key to preventing alcohol intoxication and protecting the liver lies in reducing alcohol intake rather than relying on specific foods. Maintaining a balanced diet and regular作息 (作息 refers to daily routine or作息 habits here, could be translated as "lifestyle habits") is recommended.

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Is Laoxianghuang effective for chronic pharyngitis?

Under normal circumstances, Lao Xiang Huang (aged preserved citrus peel) may provide temporary relief for some discomfort caused by chronic pharyngitis, but it cannot treat chronic pharyngitis itself, and attention should be paid to the amount consumed. In daily life, if mild discomfort from chronic pharyngitis occurs, a small amount of Lao Xiang Huang may be consumed temporarily for relief, but intake should be controlled. At the same time, drink plenty of warm water, avoid excessive voice use, and limit consumption of spicy or overly hot foods.

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Can Lao Xiang Huang cure bad breath?

In general, Lao Xiang Huang (aged preserved melon) may help alleviate certain types of bad breath to some extent, but it cannot completely cure all forms of halitosis; treatment should be determined based on the specific underlying cause. Lao Xiang Huang is made from pickled chayote. According to traditional Chinese medicine, it has properties of regulating qi, strengthening the spleen, harmonizing the stomach, and resolving phlegm. It may help relieve bad breath caused by indigestion, food stagnation, or accumulation of phlegm-dampness by improving gastrointestinal function and reducing sources of odor.

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Can Lao Xiang Huang improve loss of appetite?

Under normal circumstances, Lao Xiang Huang may help improve loss of appetite in some individuals, although its effectiveness varies from person to person, and attention should be paid to the method of consumption and appropriate circumstances. In daily life, if loss of appetite occurs, one may first try consuming a small amount of Lao Xiang Huang to observe the response, while also pairing it with light and easily digestible foods such as millet porridge, vegetable soup, and the like.