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Cough at the initial stage is mostly caused by the invasion of Yang pathogens (Yang pathogenic factors), while chronic cough is often due to deficiency of Yin Qi (Vital energy associated with cooling, moistening, and calming functions). However, one must not rigidly adhere to this theory. There are cases where Yin deficiency exists from the onset, and others where Yang deficiency persists despite the duration; these situations require careful differentiation.

How can one identify that the initial stage involves the Yin meridians? For instance, if a patient does not cough during the day but coughs at night, or if the cough is mild in the morning but severe at night, although it may appear to be caused by wind pathogens invading the body, it is ultimately due to Yin deficiency. Treatment should begin immediately with herbs that nourish Yin, supplemented by those that disperse wind. This approach facilitates the expulsion of pathogens without depleting the healthy Qi (Vital energy).

How can one determine that a long-standing cough still belongs to the Yang meridians? For example, if coughing requires raising the shoulders, the sound of coughing vibrates the body, sputum is expectorated in yellow clumps, nasal congestion occurs with prolonged flow of clear saliva, symptoms are heavier during the day but peaceful at night, or restlessness occurs when sitting but relief is found when lying down. These indicate that Yang Qi is not yet deficient, but pathogens are attached and lingering. Treatment must still employ methods to dispel wind and resolve phlegm, combined with a small amount of Yin-nourishing agents. In this way, pathogens will naturally dissipate without injuring Yin Qi.

I now present two formulas: one for treating cough related to Yin meridians, and one for cough related to Yang meridians. The formula for Yin meridian cough is named "Huyin Zhisou Dan" (Protect Yin Cough-Stopping Pill). Although this formula appears ordinary, it possesses subtle regulatory properties and yields miraculous results. The formula for Yang meridian cough is named "Sanxie Zhisou Dan" (Dispel Pathogens Cough-Stopping Pill). Although this formula is designed to disperse pathogens, it nourishes Yin rather than tonifying Yang. Why is this? Because when Yang is already excessive, pathogens are difficult to expel; by nourishing Yin, Yang becomes balanced. Once Yang is harmonious, pathogens cannot remain. If one fails to distinguish between Yin and Yang and blindly applies Yang-tonifying methods, Yin cannot generate, and Yang cannot transform. Not only will the cough fail to heal, but various complications may arise. One must be extremely cautious.

Huyin Zhisou Dan (Protect Yin Cough-Stopping Pill)
Ophiopogonis Radix (Ouyangdong, 5 qian) *Note: Text says Maidong* -> Ophiopogonis Radix (Maidong, 5 qian); Asteris Tuber (Ziwan, 5 qian); Stemona Rhizome (Bubai, 5 qian); Asparagi Radix (Tianmendong, 3 qian); Prepared Rehmanniae Radix (Shudi, 5 qian); Platycodonis Radix (Jiegeng, 2 qian); Glycyrrhizae Radix et Rhizoma (Gancao, 1 qian); Sinapis Semen (Baijiezi, 2 qian); Scrophulariae Radix (Xuanshen, 3 qian); Glehniae Radix (Shashen, 5 qian); Citri Reticulatae Pericarpium (Chenpi, 0.5 qian); Farflos Flos (Kuandonghua, 0.5 qian). Decoct in water and take orally.

Sanxie Zhisou Dan (Dispel Pathogens Cough-Stopping Pill)
Bupleuri Radix (Chaihu, 1 qian); Paeoniae Radix Alba (Baishao, 5 qian); Scutellariae Radix (Huangqin, 1 qian); Gypsum Fibrosum (Shigao, 1 qian); Platycodonis Radix (Jiegeng, 1 qian); Glycyrrhizae Radix et Rhizoma (Gancao, 1 qian); Rehmanniae Radix Recens (Shengdi, 5 qian); Ophiopogonis Radix (Maidong, 2 qian); Poria (Fuling, 3 qian); Pinelliae Rhizoma Preparatum (Banxia, 1 qian); Citri Reticulatae Pericarpium (Chenpi, 0.5 qian). Decoct in water and take orally.