Cough can be categorized as acute (lasting less than three weeks) and chronic (lasting eight weeks or more). It can also be classified as dry or wet. The most common causes of acute cough include airway infections, bronchial asthma, and inhaling foreign bodies. Prolonged and persistent coughs may be due to infections such as bronchitis, chronic airway inflammation such as bronchial asthma, para-bronchitis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), allergic diseases such as bronchial asthma, and malignant airway diseases. Differential diagnosis is required to distinguish between these causes. Dry coughs occur due to physical and chemical reactions with acid receptors, while wet coughs are believed to be a biological defence mechanism to expel accumulated substances like mucus from the airways.
Indications and usage of herbal medicine:
When it comes to using herbal medicine for cough treatment, the approach should initially focus on addressing symptoms that require emergency treatment, especially in cases of sudden deterioration or underlying severe illness. In instances of bacterial infection, Western medicine is typically the recommended course of action. Herbal medicine, however, is suitable for individuals with various body conditions and is particularly favoured by those seeking a natural holistic approach with fewer or no side effects.
For example, in the case of an acute coughing attack, the effectiveness of the herbal medicine should be assessed 30 minutes after taking it. If there is no improvement, one more packet should be taken. If it is effective, continue taking it three times daily until the coughing disappears. If it is ineffective, switch to Western medicine.
Chinese medicine used for acute cough:
In DK – HHC, we have developed a system that enables you to determine the most suitable formula based on the stamina you retain while sick, and then match your symptoms with the ones listed next to each formula. You can also visit our clinic for a more accurate assessment to receive personalized herbal medicine.

Good Stamina
Coughing, expectoration (coughing phlegm), wheezing g, difficulty breathing, dry mouth—- C-Formula 1
Cough, fever, chills, joint pain, muscle pain, no sweating —- C-Formula 2
Average Stamina
Damp sputum, watery expectoration, runny nose, sneezing, asthma— C-Formula 3
Dry cough, dry mouth, elderly— C-Formula 4
Low Stamina
Mild fever, a lot of phlegm, general malaise, insomnia, palpitations—- C-Formula 5
Frequent coughing at night, thick and difficult to break phlegm, slight fever, constipation. Dry cough, dry mouth, elderly —- C-Formula 6