What Are the Dietary Therapy Methods for Cough Caused by Wind-Cold Common Cold?

Apr 25, 2022 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Guo Xiheng
Introduction
For cough associated with wind-cold type common cold: First, ginger, jujube, brown sugar, and lily bulb decoction may be taken, which helps dispel wind-cold and suppress cough. Second, white radish and scallion soup can be used (prepare by slicing half a white radish and two scallions, washing thoroughly, then boiling gently in water for 20 minutes after bringing to a boil). This soup also helps relieve cough, resolve phlegm, aid digestion, and alleviate food stagnation. Additionally, ginger, jujube, and radish seed decoction is especially suitable for children recovering from a cold.

Some individuals in daily life develop wind-cold type common colds and wish to treat them using dietary therapy. What are the treatment options for cough associated with wind-cold common cold?

Dietary Therapy Options for Cough Due to Wind-Cold Common Cold

First, ginger, jujube, brown sugar, and lily bulb decoction may be used: combine 30 g brown sugar, 15 g fresh ginger, 30 g lily bulb, and 5–6 jujubes; boil in water, then simmer gently for 20 minutes. This formula helps dispel wind-cold and relieve cough.

Second, white radish and scallion soup may be prepared: use half a white radish and two scallions; wash and slice, then simmer gently in water for 20 minutes after bringing to a boil. This soup helps relieve cough, resolve phlegm, and aid digestion. White radish has antitussive properties, while scallion whites possess pungent, dispersing actions effective against wind-cold-induced cough.

Additionally, ginger, jujube, and radish seed decoction may be used: combine 20 g fresh ginger, 30 g radish seeds (Lai Fu Zi), and 8–10 jujubes; boil in water, then simmer gently for 20 minutes. Radish seeds help relieve cough, resolve phlegm, promote digestion, and exert a mildly aromatic, dispersing effect—making this formula especially suitable for children recovering from common colds.

For patients experiencing cough, oral administration of Qingxuan Zhike Granules may be considered. If sputum is copious and viscous, ambroxol tablets may be prescribed. Additionally, antiviral or symptomatic cold remedies such as Ganmao Qingre Granules may be used.

After onset of symptoms, patients should avoid self-medicating and instead seek prompt medical evaluation at a hospital. A physician can identify the underlying cause and guide appropriate pharmacological interventions. We hope this information proves helpful!