【Source】

From the “Collection of Effective Prescriptions of the Bureau of People’s Benevolence and Harmony” Vol. II (Added Prescriptions from Various Bureaus).

 【Composition】

Ephedra, Apricot Kernel, raw Licorice Root
(3)

 【Classification】

<Tonifying Spleen and Middle Jiao>: Raw Licorice Root

<Releasing the Exterior with Acrid and Warm Herbs>: Ephedra

<Stopping Cough and Calming Asthma>: Apricot Kernel

【Formula Rationale】

According to “Medical Formulas”: Ephedra retains its nodes, promoting both release and containment; Apricot Kernel retains its tip, taking advantage of its dispersing property, and is taken with its skin for its astringency; raw Licorice Root is used to tonify while also dispersing.

 【Functions】

Induce sweating to release the exterior, stop cough, and calm asthma.

 【Indications】

Common cold due to wind-cold, sore throat, nasal congestion with heavy voice, cough with copious phlegm, headache and body aches, chest fullness, shortness of breath. Lung disorder due to wind-cold with incessant asthma.

 【Clinical Applications】

Cough and asthma in children, asthmatic bronchitis, acute bronchitis in children, chronic bronchitis, etc.

 【Mnemonic】

Mom Xin Gan (Ma Xing Gan).

 【Pharmacology】

Possesses antitussive, antiasthmatic, expectorant, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antiviral, and antiallergic effects.