INGREDIENTS

Each pill contains the equiv. to dry:

 

Rehmannia, root 65mg

Monkey grass, root 19mg

Dong Quai, root 13mg

Himalayan Fritillary, bulb 13mg

Licorice, root 13mg

Lily, bulb 13mg

White Peony, root 13mg

Balloonflower, root 1omg

Chinese Figwort, root 10mg

 

Store below 30°C

Contains 300 x 200mg pills.

AUSTL 402296

Made in Australia. (Logo)

 

 

Indications: acute or chronic dry cough, barking cough.

Actions: moistens the lungs, clear the cough.

Dosage: 10 - 15 pills 2 - 3 times per day or as symptoms return. Take anytime.

Children: 6 months an over 1 pill per year of age up to the age of 10 as directed above.

Treat more, not less. Treat sooner, rather than later

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Bai He Gu Jin Tang – "Dry Cough"

 

Restoring Moisture to Dry, Irritated Lungs

A classical Chinese herbal formula traditionally used to relieve persistent dry cough by nourishing the lungs, restoring healthy body fluids and repairing the delicate tissues of the respiratory tract after illness.

 

What is Bai He Gu Jin Tang?

Not every cough is caused by infection.

​

Sometimes the infection has already gone.

The fever has settled.

The mucus has disappeared.

The lungs have simply been left...

...dry.

​

Every breath irritates the airways.

Talking triggers coughing.

Cold air makes it worse.

The throat constantly feels dry.

The cough produces little or no mucus.

​

Chinese medicine recognised this stage of recovery centuries ago.

​

Once inflammation settles, the lungs often need moisture before they can fully heal.

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Bai He Gu Jin Tang was developed for exactly this purpose.

At Chiron Medical we call it "Dry Cough."

​

Because rather than fighting infection, this formula helps repair lungs that have become dry, irritated and slow to recover.

 

A Formula for Lung Recovery

Healthy lungs are naturally moist.

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Every breath depends on delicate tissues remaining soft, flexible and protected by a thin layer of moisture.

When this protective layer becomes depleted, the lungs become increasingly sensitive.

​

Even normal breathing can trigger coughing.

​

Bai He Gu Jin Tang restores this natural protection by nourishing the tissues that line the respiratory tract while calming persistent irritation.

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Why We Call It "Dry Cough"

Typical symptoms include:

• dry cough

• little or no sputum

• dry throat

• hoarse voice

• coughing fits after talking

• cough that worsens at night

• irritation from cold air

• persistent tickle in the throat

• prolonged cough following infection

 

Unlike a chest infection, there is usually very little mucus.

The lungs simply need time—and moisture—to recover.

 

What Is It Traditionally Used For?

Traditionally, Bai He Gu Jin Tang is prescribed for Lung and Kidney Yin deficiency with chronic dryness affecting the respiratory tract.

​

In modern practice it is commonly considered for supportive management of:

• persistent dry cough

• post-viral cough

• chronic bronchial irritation

• dry throat

• chronic laryngitis

• smoker's cough

• dry cough following pneumonia or bronchitis

• chronic respiratory dryness

 

A Formula with More Than 400 Years of History

Bai He Gu Jin Tang first appeared in the Shen Shi Zun Sheng Shu (Master Shen's Book of Honouring Life) during the Ming Dynasty (1368–1644 AD).

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It became one of Chinese medicine's classic formulas for chronic dry cough, recognising that successful recovery requires more than eliminating infection—it requires restoring the moisture that keeps the lungs healthy.

Today it remains one of the premier formulas for chronic respiratory dryness.

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The Herbs That Make the Formula

 

Every breath passes across an extraordinarily delicate surface. The lungs are lined by a thin layer of protective moisture that allows oxygen to move freely into the bloodstream while shielding the airways from constant exposure to dust, pollutants and microorganisms. After prolonged illness, persistent coughing or chronic inflammation, this protective lining can become depleted, leaving the lungs dry, sensitive and slow to recover.

 

Bai He Gu Jin Tang was developed for this stage of healing. Rather than suppressing a cough or fighting infection, it helps restore the moisture, nourishment and tissue integrity that healthy lungs depend upon. As the airways recover, coughing gradually settles because the underlying irritation has begun to resolve.

 

Sheng Di Huang (Rehmannia Root)

 

Traditional Role

Sheng Di Huang provides the restorative foundation of the formula. Traditionally it was used when prolonged illness had left the lungs dry, irritated and unable to recover fully. Its role is to replenish the body's depleted reserves while supporting the repair of damaged respiratory tissues.

 

Biomedical Actions

Research demonstrates antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and immune-modulating activity together with protection against oxidative stress and support for epithelial repair. Experimental studies also suggest protection of respiratory tissues from inflammatory injury and improved cellular recovery following chronic inflammation.

 

Mai Men Dong (Ophiopogon Root)

 

Traditional Role

Healthy lungs depend on healthy moisture. Mai Men Dong helps restore the thin protective lining that coats the airways, reducing irritation while supporting the normal function of respiratory tissues.

 

Biomedical Actions

Research demonstrates protection of respiratory mucosa together with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity. Studies also suggest improved epithelial repair, regulation of airway inflammation and maintenance of mucosal barrier integrity.

 

Dang Gui (Chinese Angelica Root)

 

Traditional Role

Healing requires more than moisture alone. Dang Gui supports the healthy circulation needed to deliver oxygen and nutrients to recovering tissues, helping damaged areas of the lungs repair more effectively.

 

Biomedical Actions

Research demonstrates improvements in microcirculation together with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and tissue-repair supporting effects. Experimental studies also indicate protection of vascular endothelium and promotion of normal wound healing.

 

Chuan Bei Mu (Fritillary Bulb)

 

Traditional Role

Even after an infection has resolved, small amounts of thick mucus may continue to irritate recovering airways. Chuan Bei Mu gently loosens these secretions while protecting the lungs from becoming excessively dry, making it particularly suited to persistent dry coughs.

 

Biomedical Actions

Research demonstrates expectorant, antitussive and anti-inflammatory activity together with protection of respiratory tissues. Studies also suggest regulation of mucus production and reduced airway irritation.

 

Gan Cao (Liquorice Root)

 

Traditional Role

Gan Cao immediately soothes inflamed airways while helping the other herbs work together as a balanced prescription. Its protective effect on irritated throat tissues has made it one of Chinese medicine's most frequently used herbs for chronic cough.

 

Biomedical Actions

Research demonstrates antiviral, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity together with protection of respiratory mucosa and immune regulation. Glycyrrhizin has also shown benefits in reducing inflammatory injury within airway tissues.

 

Bai He (Lily Bulb)

 

Traditional Role

Bai He gives the formula both its name and its purpose. It gently nourishes lungs that have become dry after prolonged illness, helping restore comfort while encouraging damaged tissues to recover naturally.

 

Biomedical Actions

Research suggests antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity together with protection of respiratory tissues, support for mucosal healing and maintenance of healthy epithelial function.

 

Bai Shao (White Peony Root)

 

Traditional Role

Bai Shao supports the recovery of damaged tissues by providing nourishment while helping calm the persistent irritation that often follows prolonged inflammation.

 

Biomedical Actions

Research demonstrates anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and immune-modulating activity together with support for tissue repair and regulation of inflammatory cytokines.

 

Jie Geng (Balloonflower Root)

 

Traditional Role

Jie Geng directs the restorative actions of the formula towards the lungs and throat, ensuring the nourishing herbs reach the tissues that need them most. It also helps soothe the lingering irritation responsible for persistent coughing.

 

Biomedical Actions

Research demonstrates expectorant, anti-inflammatory and immune-modulating activity together with protection of respiratory mucosa and improved airway clearance.

 

Xuan Shen (Chinese Figwort Root)

 

Traditional Role

As damaged tissues recover, low-grade inflammation often persists. Xuan Shen helps settle this lingering irritation while restoring the moisture needed for healthy respiratory function.

 

Biomedical Actions

Research demonstrates anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and immune-modulating activity together with antibacterial effects. Studies also suggest regulation of inflammatory cytokines and support for epithelial regeneration following chronic inflammatory injury.

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How the Formula Works

Most coughs settle once the infection has resolved. A dry, lingering cough is different. Although the invading virus or bacteria may be gone, the lungs are often left with an injured respiratory lining, increased sensitivity of the cough reflex and a reduced ability to maintain the protective layer of moisture that normally shields the airways.

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Chinese physicians recognised this stage of illness centuries ago. Rather than continuing to treat infection, they shifted their attention towards rebuilding the environment in which healthy lung function could return.

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Bai He Gu Jin Tang reflects that change in strategy. Some herbs restore the protective moisture layer that lines the respiratory tract, others nourish the circulation needed for tissue repair, while several reduce persistent inflammation and gently clear the small amounts of residual mucus that continue to trigger coughing. Together they create the conditions that allow the lungs to complete their recovery naturally.

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Modern research suggests the formula may protect respiratory epithelium, regulate inflammatory signalling, reduce oxidative stress, support mucosal repair and moderate the persistent airway sensitivity that follows respiratory infection. Rather than simply suppressing a cough, Bai He Gu Jin Tang helps restore the biological environment that healthy lungs need to heal

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I also think we're getting closer to what you mean by the Chiron vernacular. It isn't trying to impress the reader with either Chinese medicine or biomedical science. It quietly starts with normal human physiology, explains what has broken down, then introduces the formula as a logical solution. The herbs become contributors to that physiological story rather than isolated ingredients. I suspect that's the centre of gravity we've been searching for.

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What Does Modern Research Say?

Research into the constituent herbs has investigated their role in:

 

Chronic Dry Cough

Studies suggest supportive effects on:

• cough frequency

• throat irritation

• respiratory comfort

• mucosal hydration

 

Lung Protection

Research demonstrates:

• antioxidant activity

• anti-inflammatory effects

• epithelial repair

• immune regulation

• protection against chronic respiratory injury

These findings closely reflect the traditional use of the formula.

 

Comparing the Chiron Medical Cough Formulas

Different coughs require different treatment strategies. Recognising the stage of illness and the type of cough helps guide formula selection.

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Sang Ju Yin - New Cough - Early cough during viral infection - Protects the lungs during the beginning of illness

Qing Qi Hua Tan Tang - Wet Cough – Yellow Sticky Phlegm - Thick yellow or green sputum with active chest infection - Clears Heat and infected phlegm

Zhi Sou San - Lingering Cough - Persistent cough after infection has resolved - Completes recovery and clears residual phlegm

Bai He Gu Jin Tang - Dry Cough - Dry, irritating cough with little or no sputum - Rebuilds body fluids and repairs the lungs

Ding Chuan Tang - Wheeze - Wheezing and reactive airways - Opens the airways and relieves bronchospasm

Yu Ping Feng San - Immunity - Recurrent respiratory infections - Strengthens long-term immune resilience

 

Understanding the Progression

Respiratory illness usually follows a predictable pathway.

 

Colds, Shivers & Sniffles (Gui Zhi Tang)

↓

No.1 Flu, Fever, Virus & Infection (Yin Qiao San)

↓

New Cough (Sang Ju Yin)

↓

Wet Cough – Yellow Sticky Phlegm (Qing Qi Hua Tan Tang)

↓

Lingering Cough (Zhi Sou San)

↓

Dry Cough (Bai He Gu Jin Tang)

↓

Immunity (Yu Ping Feng San)

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As the illness progresses, the treatment changes from fighting infection to clearing inflammation, then restoring healthy lung tissue and finally strengthening the immune system.

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For Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioners

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Classical Pattern

Lung and Kidney Yin Deficiency with Dryness affecting the Respiratory Tract

Typical presentation:

• dry cough

• scanty sputum

• dry throat

• hoarseness

• afternoon Heat

• night sweats

• red tongue with scanty coat

• thready rapid pulse

 

Formula Strategy

Bai He Gu Jin Tang:

• Nourishes Lung and Kidney Yin.

• Rebuilds Body Fluids.

• Moistens the lungs.

• Stops cough.

• Supports repair of damaged respiratory tissues.

 

For Medical Doctors

 

Proposed Biomedical Actions

Current evidence suggests the constituent herbs may influence:

• respiratory epithelial repair

• mucosal hydration

• inflammatory cytokines

• oxidative stress

• cough reflex sensitivity

• immune regulation

 

Collectively these actions may contribute to improved recovery following respiratory infection and chronic airway irritation.

 

Potential Herb–Drug Considerations

Persistent cough lasting longer than eight weeks, coughing up blood, unexplained weight loss, chest pain or progressive shortness of breath should always be medically investigated. Bai He Gu Jin Tang is intended as supportive therapy within an integrated model of care.

 

Helping the Lungs Heal

Healthy lungs don't simply need the infection removed.

They need the opportunity to repair.

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Every breath depends on moist, healthy respiratory tissues.

When those tissues dry out, coughing often continues long after the illness has ended.

That is why we call this formula "Dry Cough."

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It doesn't fight the infection—it helps the lungs recover from it by restoring the moisture, nourishment and protection they need to breathe comfortably once again.

 

Key Takeaways

• Bai He Gu Jin Tang (Dry Cough) is a classical Chinese herbal formula designed to support recovery from persistent dry cough by nourishing the lungs and restoring depleted body fluids.

• It is particularly useful after respiratory infections, when inflammation has settled but dryness and irritation continue to trigger coughing.

• The formula combines herbs that rebuild Yin, protect respiratory tissues, support epithelial repair and calm cough sensitivity, rather than simply suppressing symptoms.

• Within the Chiron Medical Cough Network, Dry Cough follows Lingering Cough (Zhi Sou San) as the lungs transition from clearing residual mucus to rebuilding healthy, well-hydrated respiratory tissue.

• Once recovery is complete, Yu Ping Feng San (Immunity) may help strengthen long-term respiratory resilience and reduce susceptibility to future infections.

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Clinical Insights

 

Dry Cough Following Infection

Bai He Gu Jin Tang is most commonly prescribed after infection has resolved, when coughing persists because the lungs have become dry and irritated rather than infected.

 

Following Lingering Cough

As the residual mucus clears and the cough becomes increasingly dry, practitioners often transition from:

• Zhi Sou San (Lingering Cough)

to:

• Bai He Gu Jin Tang (Dry Cough)

This reflects the lungs' transition from clearing mucus to repairing damaged tissues.

 

Chronic Respiratory Dryness

People with long-standing dry cough, chronic throat irritation or recurrent respiratory dryness may benefit from combining:

• Zhi Yin Gan Lu Yin (Rain in Your Head)

particularly when dryness extends beyond the lungs to involve the eyes, mouth and throat.

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Wheeze Following Infection

Some people do not develop a dry cough during recovery. Instead, the airways remain inflamed and overly sensitive, leading to:

• wheezing

• chest tightness

• shortness of breath

• coughing triggered by exercise, cold air or allergens

In these situations, practitioners may prescribe:

• Ding Chuan Tang (Wheeze)

rather than Dry Cough, because the priority has shifted from rebuilding moisture to opening the airways, reducing bronchospasm and calming ongoing airway inflammation.

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Recognising the difference between dryness and airway constriction is one of the keys to selecting the correct formula.

 

Preventing Future Respiratory Illness

Once complete recovery has been achieved, practitioners frequently recommend:

• Yu Ping Feng San (Immunity)

to strengthen respiratory defences and reduce susceptibility to future infections.