Is old shepherd's purse egg drop soup effective for cough?

Generally speaking, whether old shepherd's purse egg drop soup is effective for coughing depends on the specific type and cause of the cough. The detailed analysis is as follows:

If the cough is due to wind-heat or lung heat, accompanied by symptoms such as dry and sore throat, scanty sticky phlegm, dry mouth, and thirst, it may be appropriate to consume moderate amounts of old shepherd's purse egg drop soup. Shepherd's purse has a slightly cooling nature and can help clear heat and moisten dryness. When cooked with eggs into a mild and gentle soup, it not only helps maintain hydration but also provides some nutrition without aggravating internal heat.

However, if the cough is caused by wind-cold, accompanied by chills, aversion to cold, clear nasal discharge, and coughing up thin, white phlegm, it is not advisable to consume this soup. The cooling property of shepherd's purse may increase internal coldness, worsen chills, potentially impair phlegm expulsion, and delay recovery from the cough.

When preparing and consuming this soup, keep the flavor light—avoid adding excessive salt, oil, or spicy seasonings. It's best consumed while still hot to prevent gastrointestinal irritation from cold food. During episodes of coughing, individuals should also drink plenty of warm water, ensure adequate rest, and maintain a diet primarily composed of mild foods such as porridge and vegetables to support recovery.