Which type of cough is Licorice Root suitable for?
Recently, I've been coughing severely, to the point that my chest hurts from coughing. A friend recommended that I take licorice tablets, saying they are quite effective for coughs. I would like to know whether licorice tablets are suitable for my type of cough?
Doctor's answer (1)
Gancao tablets generally refer to Compound Glycyrrhiza Tablets, a commonly used antitussive medication primarily indicated for patients with dry cough or irritating cough.
This medication achieves its cough-suppressing effect by alleviating inflammation of the trachea and bronchi and reducing the cough reflex. The glycyrrhiza component in Gancao tablets has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which can soothe throat pain and reduce discomfort during coughing; while the opiate component contained in the tablets can inhibit the cough center and reduce the frequency of coughing.
Due to its effect of moistening the lungs and relieving cough, Gancao tablets are particularly suitable for dry coughs, such as those caused by lung dryness. In addition, Gancao tablets are also effective for coughs with excessive thick phlegm, as its components can help resolve phlegm, moisten the lungs, and promote phlegm expulsion.
For coughs caused by lung heat, Gancao tablets also have certain therapeutic effects, as their heat-clearing and detoxifying properties can alleviate cough symptoms caused by lung heat. However, it should be noted that Gancao tablets may have limited efficacy for wet coughs with excessive phlegm or coughs caused by severe respiratory diseases, and may even hinder phlegm expulsion by suppressing the cough reflex.
Patients should use this medication under the guidance of a physician. If any adverse symptoms occur, it is recommended to seek medical attention at a hospital promptly and follow the physician's instructions for treatment.
