Can Huoxiang Zhengqi Water cure rhinitis?

Apr 22, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

I am 24 years old this year and have rhinitis. I heard online that oral solution of Agastache rugosa (Huoxiang Zhengqi Shui) is beneficial for treating rhinitis, and I would like to know whether Agastache rugosa oral solution can cure rhinitis.

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Lu Cheng

Under normal circumstances, Huoxiang Zhengqi Water cannot cure rhinitis.

Huoxiang Zhengqi Water is a traditional Chinese medicine preparation, primarily composed of herbal ingredients such as Agastache (Huoxiang), Atractylodes (Cangzhu), and Angelica dahurica (Baizhi). It functions to dispel wind, relieve chest and abdominal discomfort, and regulate qi. While it may alleviate certain symptoms of rhinitis, such as nasal congestion and runny nose, it cannot fundamentally cure the condition. Rhinitis is an inflammatory reaction of the nasal mucosa, commonly caused by allergies, infections, or environmental factors, and is characterized by symptoms such as nasal congestion, runny nose, and sneezing. Although the volatile oils and other components in Huoxiang Zhengqi Water have anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and symptom-relieving effects, they do not address the underlying causes of rhinitis.

Huoxiang Zhengqi Water may provide some relief for cold symptoms caused by external contraction of cold pathogen with internal dampness retention or summerheat-dampness, and for rhinitis symptoms secondary to such conditions. However, its therapeutic effect on other types of rhinitis, such as allergic rhinitis or chronic rhinitis, is relatively limited. These types of rhinitis often involve more complex and persistent symptoms that require comprehensive treatment targeting the underlying causes.

Furthermore, as a traditional Chinese medicine preparation, Huoxiang Zhengqi Water may also have certain adverse reactions and potential drug interactions. Therefore, it should be used according to medical advice and the instructions for use, avoiding self-medication. Patients whose rhinitis symptoms persist or worsen are advised to seek timely medical consultation for professional diagnosis and treatment.