Can Er Mu Ning Sou Wan treat cough-variant asthma?
Dec 04, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Sun Lianqing
Introduction
If cough-variant asthma is in the remission phase, with mild cough symptoms and TCM pattern identification indicating lung dryness and yin deficiency (manifesting as dry cough with little phlegm, sore throat, dry mouth, red tongue with scanty fluid), taking Er Mu Ning Sou Wan may provide certain adjunctive regulatory effects. This medicine contains ingredients such as Anemarrhena rhizome (Zhi Mu) and Sichuan Fritillary bulb (Chuan Bei Mu), which can moisten the lungs, relieve cough, clear heat, and resolve phlegm. It helps alleviate dry cough caused by lung dryness and improve respiratory discomfort.
In general, Er Mu Ning Sou Wan (Two Mothers Cough-Relieving Pill) may be used as an adjunctive treatment for cough-variant asthma during the remission phase when the condition is diagnosed in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) as Lung Dryness syndrome. However, it is not suitable for treatment during acute exacerbations or when the TCM pattern does not match. If in doubt, medical consultation is recommended beforehand. Detailed analysis is as follows:
When cough-variant asthma is in the remission phase with mild cough symptoms and TCM diagnosis identifies Lung dryness with Yin deficiency (manifested as dry cough with little phlegm, sore throat, dry mouth, red tongue with reduced moisture), taking Er Mu Ning Sou Wan may provide supportive regulation. This formula contains ingredients such as Anemarrhena rhizome (Zhi Mu) and Sichuan Fritillary bulb (Chuan Bei Mu), which help moisten the lungs, relieve cough, clear heat, and resolve phlegm. It can alleviate dry cough caused by lung dryness and improve respiratory discomfort.
However, if cough-variant asthma is in the acute phase—characterized by severe coughing, worsening at night, or triggered by irritants—or if TCM diagnosis indicates Wind-Cold cough (with thin, white sputum and aversion to cold) or Phlegm-Dampness cough (with excessive, sticky phlegm)—Er Mu Ning Sou Wan is not appropriate. This formula lacks anti-inflammatory and bronchodilatory effects and cannot control acute asthma attacks. Taking it when the pattern does not match may worsen coughing and delay proper management of the condition.
Before using this medicine, the TCM pattern must be clearly identified to avoid inappropriate use. During acute episodes, standard asthma controller medications should be used according to medical advice. If symptoms do not improve or worsen after 1–2 weeks of medication, prompt medical evaluation is necessary to adjust the treatment plan. Long-term self-medication should be avoided.
