Is Laoxianghuang effective for chronic pharyngitis?

Aug 20, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Sun Lianqing

Introduction

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.

Generally speaking, Lao Xiang Huang 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. The detailed explanation is as follows:

Lao Xiang Huang is made from preserved citrus fruits and has a sweet and sour flavor with a unique aroma. Its moisture content can moisturize the throat mucosa, temporarily relieving dryness, itching, and foreign body sensation caused by chronic pharyngitis. Its sour and sweet taste can also stimulate saliva secretion, further moistening the throat and alleviating discomfort caused by dryness, providing temporary relief. However, it should be noted that a large amount of sugar is added during the pickling process. Excessive consumption might irritate the throat mucosa, worsen symptoms of swelling and heat associated with chronic pharyngitis, and even exacerbate discomfort.

In daily life, if you experience mild discomfort from chronic pharyngitis, you can consume a small amount of Lao Xiang Huang for temporary relief, but you should control the amount consumed. At the same time, drink plenty of warm water, avoid excessive voice use, consume less spicy or overly hot food, reduce throat irritation, maintain regular sleep patterns, and support overall throat health to reduce the frequency of chronic pharyngitis flare-ups.

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What is Ophiopogon japonicus (McDoor) used for in treating chronic pharyngitis?

Ophiopogon japonicus (Mai Dong) can be combined with honeysuckle (Jin Yin Hua), Sterculia lychnophora (Pang Da Hai), Polygonatum odoratum (Yu Zhu), Siraitia grosvenorii (Luo Han Guo), and Platycodon grandiflorus (Jie Geng) to assist in the management of chronic pharyngitis; combinations should be selected according to specific symptoms. Mai Dong nourishes yin, promotes body fluid production, moistens the lungs, and benefits the throat, while Jin Yin Hua clears heat, detoxifies, and disperses wind-heat. This combination is suitable for chronic pharyngitis accompanied by dryness, sore throat, and mild throat redness and swelling, addressing both yin deficiency and heat symptoms to relieve throat discomfort.

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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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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.