TCM Herbs That Clear Phlegm: How Each Works & How to Use Them
When respiratory congestion settles in, the search for herbs for phlegm becomes urgent. We understand that struggle. At Sacred Plant Co., we bridge ancient Traditional Chinese Medicine wisdom with Western herbal knowledge to help you breathe easier. Phlegm is not just uncomfortable; according to TCM, it represents a deeper imbalance that requires the right herbs, prepared correctly, to resolve.
This guide walks you through the most effective TCM and Western herbs to clear mucus, explaining how each one works in your body and exactly how to prepare them at home. Whether you are dealing with thick, stubborn mucus or thin, clear discharge, understanding the mechanism behind each herb transforms your approach from guesswork to targeted healing.
What TCM Means by "Phlegm" – A Brief Recap
Traditional Chinese Medicine views phlegm differently than Western medicine. In TCM theory, phlegm (tan) is not merely the visible mucus you cough up. It represents a pathological accumulation caused by impaired fluid metabolism, often stemming from Spleen Qi deficiency or Lung dysfunction.1
Two categories define phlegm in TCM:
Substantial phlegm manifests as visible mucus in the respiratory or digestive tracts. You can see it, cough it up, or feel it as post-nasal drip. This tangible form responds well to expectorant and demulcent herbs.
Insubstantial phlegm refers to invisible obstructions that affect the Heart, mind, or channels. This type causes dizziness, mental fog, numbness, or nodules. While our focus here is respiratory phlegm, understanding this broader TCM context matters because chronic mucus often signals deeper metabolic issues that require constitutional support.
Go Deeper: For a complete exploration of phlegm patterns, causes, and diagnostic differentiation, read our foundational guide: Understanding Phlegm Through Traditional Chinese Medicine.
TCM practitioners classify phlegm by temperature (hot vs. cold), texture (thick vs. thin), and color (yellow, white, clear). Each classification requires different herbs. Hot phlegm, marked by yellow-green mucus and inflammation, demands cooling expectorants. Cold phlegm, characterized by clear or white discharge and chills, responds to warming, drying herbs. This diagnostic precision is why TCM herbal formulas outperform single-herb approaches for complex cases.
Top TCM Herbs & Demulcents for Mucus: How They Compare
The best expectorant herbs fall into two functional categories: those that transform phlegm by breaking it down (expectorants) and those that soothe inflamed tissues while facilitating drainage (demulcents). TCM adds a third category: herbs that dry dampness at its source, preventing phlegm formation. Knowing which category fits your symptom picture determines success.
Mullein (Verbascum thapsus) – The Gentle Expectorant
Mullein leaf ranks as our most recommended herb for dry, irritated coughs with sticky phlegm. Western herbalists classify mullein as both an expectorant and a demulcent, a rare combination that makes it exceptionally safe for long-term use.2
How mullein works: The plant's high mucilage content coats irritated bronchial passages, reducing the cough reflex while its saponins gently loosen stuck mucus. Unlike harsh expectorants, mullein does not overstimulate; it soothes as it clears. Research shows mullein's anti-inflammatory compounds reduce airway swelling, making breathing easier within hours.3
TCM perspective: Mullein moistens the Lung, clears heat, and gently transforms phlegm. It suits both hot phlegm patterns (yellow mucus, sore throat) and Lung dryness (dry cough, thirst). This versatility makes mullein a foundational herb in our respiratory blends.
Preparation: For acute congestion, prepare a strong infusion using 2 tablespoons of dried mullein leaf per cup of boiling water. Steep covered for 15 minutes, strain through a fine cloth or coffee filter to remove tiny leaf hairs, and drink 3-4 cups daily. The tea should taste mild and slightly sweet. For convenience and enhanced bioavailability, our glycerin-based extracts offer concentrated benefits without alcohol.
Premium mullein leaf extract crafted using our proprietary Eternal Extraction Method. This alcohol-free glycerin-based formula captures both water-soluble mucilage and beneficial saponins for complete respiratory support. Gentle on sensitive systems, suitable for all ages.
Shop Mullein ExtractMarshmallow Root (Althaea officinalis) – Deep Tissue Soother
When mucous membranes are raw from coughing or infection, marshmallow root provides unmatched relief. This demulcent herb contains up to 35% mucilage, which forms a protective film over inflamed tissues.4
How marshmallow works: The polysaccharides in marshmallow root hydrate dry tissues and reduce inflammation markers in the respiratory tract. Studies demonstrate that marshmallow significantly decreases cough frequency and throat irritation within 10 minutes of consumption.5 Unlike expectorants that stimulate mucus production, marshmallow supports natural clearance by keeping passages moist and pliable.
TCM perspective: Marshmallow nourishes Lung Yin and generates fluids. It treats Lung dryness patterns where scanty, difficult-to-expectorate phlegm combines with dry mouth and thirst. Practitioners pair it with cooling herbs for heat-damaged Yin or with moistening herbs for constitutional dryness.
Preparation: Marshmallow requires a cold infusion to extract maximum mucilage without degrading heat-sensitive compounds. Place 1 tablespoon of dried root in 1 cup of room-temperature filtered water. Cover and let sit 8-12 hours (overnight works perfectly). Strain and drink 2-3 cups daily. The liquid will be slightly viscous and tasteless. Warming it gently is acceptable, but do not boil.
Wild-crafted marshmallow root using our Eternal Extraction Method to preserve delicate mucilage polysaccharides. This alcohol-free glycerin formula captures the full spectrum of demulcent compounds for immediate soothing relief of inflamed respiratory and digestive tissues.
Shop Marshmallow ExtractSlippery Elm (Ulmus rubra) – Emergency Throat Relief
Slippery elm inner bark delivers fast relief for sore, inflamed throats and provides a grounding base for herbal syrups. Native American healers used it for respiratory ailments for centuries, and modern research validates its effectiveness.6
How slippery elm works: The bark's mucilage content rivals marshmallow, but its texture is smoother and more coating. When mixed with water, slippery elm forms a gel that adheres to mucous membranes, creating a barrier against irritants while reducing pain signals. It also contains antioxidants that support tissue repair.
TCM perspective: Slippery elm supplements Lung and Stomach Yin, making it valuable when phlegm accompanies digestive upset or nausea. It moistens without causing dampness accumulation, a delicate balance few herbs achieve.
Preparation: For immediate throat relief, mix 1 teaspoon of slippery elm powder into 1 cup of warm water, stirring constantly to prevent clumping. Add honey and lemon for palatability. The mixture thickens quickly; drink it slowly, allowing the gel to coat your throat. For longer-term use, incorporate slippery elm into herbal syrup recipes (see below).
Premium inner bark from wild-harvested slippery elm. The highest mucilage content of any North American herb, providing instant coating relief for irritated throats and digestive tissue. Perfect for syrups, lozenges, or direct preparation.
Shop Slippery ElmLicorice Root (Glycyrrhiza glabra) – The Harmonizer
Licorice root appears in more TCM formulas than any other herb, earning its title as "the great harmonizer." For phlegm conditions, licorice serves triple duty: it clears heat, moistens dryness, and enhances the action of accompanying herbs.7
How licorice works: Glycyrrhizin, licorice's primary active compound, exhibits potent anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties. Studies show it reduces airway inflammation and inhibits mucus hypersecretion triggered by allergens or pathogens.8 Licorice also modulates cortisol metabolism, which may explain its immune-supporting effects during respiratory infections.
TCM perspective: Licorice tonifies Spleen Qi, clears heat-toxins, and moistens the Lung. It appears in formulas for both hot and cold phlegm because it moderates harsh herbs and guides other herbs to the Lung channel. However, excessive long-term use can cause fluid retention and elevated blood pressure due to mineralocorticoid effects.
Preparation: Decoct 1 teaspoon of dried licorice root in 2 cups of water. Simmer covered for 15-20 minutes until the liquid reduces by half. The resulting tea should taste sweet and slightly woody. Drink 1-2 cups daily for up to 2 weeks. For longer use or higher doses, consult a practitioner, especially if you have hypertension or kidney concerns.
Premium cut and sifted licorice root for decoctions and herbal formulas. The harmonizing herb that enhances other remedies while providing anti-inflammatory and immune support. Perfect for crafting traditional TCM respiratory formulas.
Shop Licorice RootSafety Note: Licorice Root
Licorice root should not be used daily for more than 2-3 weeks without professional guidance. Avoid licorice entirely if you have high blood pressure, heart disease, kidney disease, low potassium, or are pregnant. Licorice can interact with diuretics, corticosteroids, and blood pressure medications. Always consult your healthcare provider before using licorice therapeutically.
Comparing the Four: When to Choose Each Herb
Selecting the right herb depends on your specific symptoms and constitution:
- Mullein: Best for dry, spasmodic coughs with sticky yellow or white phlegm. Choose mullein when you have chest tightness and difficulty bringing up mucus. Safe for children and long-term use.
- Marshmallow: Ideal for raw, irritated throats and Lung dryness with scanty phlegm. Use marshmallow when coughing causes pain or when phlegm is thick and difficult to expectorate due to dryness rather than excess.
- Slippery elm: Emergency relief for acute throat pain and inflammation. Choose slippery elm for immediate soothing, especially when swallowing is painful. Excellent for children and sensitive individuals.
- Licorice: Harmonizing herb for formulas addressing both phlegm and underlying Qi deficiency. Use licorice in small amounts to enhance other herbs, or short-term for viral respiratory infections with inflammation.
How to Prepare Teas, Decoctions, and Extracts: Recipes & Ratios
Proper preparation determines whether your herbs work effectively or sit unused in your cabinet. Each preparation method extracts different compounds and suits different herb types. Knowing these distinctions transforms your practice from casual to clinical.
Infusions (Hot Tea Method)
Infusions work best for leaves, flowers, and delicate aerial parts. The hot water extracts volatile oils, flavonoids, and water-soluble compounds without destroying heat-sensitive constituents.
Basic Respiratory Infusion
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons dried mullein leaf
- 1 tablespoon dried marshmallow leaf (not root)
- 1 teaspoon licorice root, chopped
- 3 cups boiling water
Method:
- Place herbs in a glass or ceramic teapot (avoid metal, which can react with some compounds).
- Pour boiling water over herbs immediately after it reaches a full boil.
- Cover tightly and steep for 15-20 minutes. Covering prevents volatile oils from escaping.
- Strain through a fine-mesh strainer or cloth to remove mullein hairs.
- Drink 1 cup three times daily between meals.
Storage: Refrigerate unused portion for up to 48 hours. Reheat gently or drink at room temperature.
Why each step matters: Boiling water opens plant cell walls rapidly, releasing water-soluble actives. Covering traps volatile compounds that would otherwise evaporate. The 15-20 minute steep time allows full extraction without over-concentrating bitter tannins that can irritate sensitive stomachs.
Decoctions (Simmering Method)
Roots, barks, and dense plant materials require decoction to break down tough cell walls and release medicinal compounds. This method uses longer heat exposure and is standard in TCM herbal medicine.
Traditional Phlegm-Clearing Decoction
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon marshmallow root, chopped
- 1 tablespoon licorice root, sliced
- 1 tablespoon slippery elm bark, shredded
- 4 cups filtered water
Method:
- Place herbs and cold water in a non-reactive pot (stainless steel, glass, or ceramic).
- Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then immediately reduce to a low simmer.
- Cover and simmer gently for 20-30 minutes until liquid reduces to approximately 2 cups.
- Strain through a fine-mesh strainer, pressing herbs to extract all liquid.
- Divide into 2 doses and drink warm, morning and evening.
Why each step matters: Starting with cold water allows gradual extraction as temperature rises. Covering prevents evaporation of medicinal compounds. Low, gentle heat protects delicate constituents while extracting deep-tissue actives from roots and bark.
Cold Infusions (Overnight Method)
Cold infusions preserve heat-sensitive mucilage and prevent degradation of certain polysaccharides. This method suits marshmallow root, slippery elm, and any herb where mucilage content is the primary therapeutic component.
Overnight Marshmallow Infusion
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon dried marshmallow root, chopped
- 1 cup room-temperature filtered water
Method:
- Place marshmallow root in a glass jar.
- Add room-temperature water (not hot, not cold).
- Cover and let sit 8-12 hours at room temperature (overnight on the counter is perfect).
- Strain through a cloth or fine strainer. The liquid will be thick and slightly slimy.
- Drink 1-2 cups daily, preferably between meals.
Storage: Refrigerate and use within 24 hours. The infusion continues extracting in the refrigerator, so potency increases slightly.
Glycerin-Based Extracts – The Alcohol-Free Advantage
Glycerin-based extracts offer a superior alternative to alcohol tinctures, especially for respiratory herbs where mucilage and polysaccharide preservation is critical. At Sacred Plant Co., we specialize in alcohol-free extracts because they provide unique benefits that align perfectly with respiratory healing.
Why Our Extracts Are Alcohol-Free: Our proprietary Eternal Extraction Method uses vegetable glycerin as the menstruum, combined with advanced extraction techniques that capture both water-soluble mucilage and beneficial phytochemicals. This alcohol-free approach offers superior results for respiratory herbs. Learn about our extraction science.
Benefits of Glycerin-Based Extracts for Respiratory Health
Preservation of delicate compounds: Glycerin excels at extracting and preserving mucilage, the soothing polysaccharide that makes herbs like marshmallow and mullein so effective for inflamed respiratory tissues. Alcohol can denature these delicate compounds, but glycerin keeps them intact and bioavailable.
Naturally soothing: Vegetable glycerin itself has demulcent properties, adding an extra layer of throat-coating relief. When you take a glycerin-based mullein or marshmallow extract, the glycerin menstruum enhances the herb's natural soothing action rather than creating the burning sensation some people experience with alcohol tinctures.
Safe for all ages: Our alcohol-free extracts are appropriate for children (over age 2), pregnant women (under practitioner guidance), those in recovery from alcohol dependency, and anyone with sensitivities to alcohol. This makes respiratory support accessible to everyone who needs it.
Pleasant taste: Glycerin has a naturally sweet taste that makes herbal medicine more palatable, especially important for children or those who struggle with bitter herb flavors. This improves compliance, meaning you are more likely to take your herbs consistently and see results.
Gentle on digestion: Alcohol can irritate sensitive stomachs and interfere with gut flora. Glycerin-based extracts are gentler on the digestive system while still providing rapid absorption and bioavailability.
How Our Eternal Extraction Method Works
We use a proprietary multi-stage extraction process that maximizes constituent extraction without alcohol:
- Water extraction phase: We first extract water-soluble compounds (mucilage, polysaccharides, some flavonoids) using pure filtered water at controlled temperatures.
- Glycerin extraction phase: We then extract glycerin-soluble compounds (additional flavonoids, certain volatile oils, resins) using pharmaceutical-grade vegetable glycerin.
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Integration:
This dual-extraction approach ensures you receive the complete medicinal benefits of respiratory herbs—the soothing mucilage, the anti-inflammatory compounds, the expectorant saponins—all preserved in their most bioavailable form.
Standard Dosing for Glycerin Extracts
Adults: 2-4 mL (approximately 40-80 drops) diluted in water, juice, or taken directly, 3 times daily. Take between meals for optimal absorption, or with food if you have a sensitive stomach.
Children 2-6 years: 1/4 adult dose (10-20 drops), 2-3 times daily, diluted in water or juice.
Children 6-12 years: 1/2 adult dose (20-40 drops), 3 times daily, diluted in liquid.
Timing: Glycerin extracts act quickly, with soothing effects noticeable within 10-20 minutes for throat irritation. For deeper respiratory support, consistent use over 3-7 days produces best results.
Comparing Extraction Methods
Understanding the differences between preparation methods helps you choose the right form:
- Hot tea infusions: Best for immediate, short-term use. Extracts water-soluble compounds quickly but has limited shelf life (1-2 days refrigerated). Ideal for acute symptoms.
- Decoctions: Excellent for roots and barks. Requires daily preparation. Strong medicinal taste can be challenging for some users.
- Alcohol tinctures: Long shelf life (3-5 years), extracts both water and alcohol-soluble compounds. However, alcohol can denature mucilage, may irritate tissues, not suitable for all populations.
- Glycerin extracts (our specialty): Preserves delicate mucilage, naturally soothing, safe for all ages, pleasant taste, 2-3 year shelf life, rapid absorption. The optimal choice for respiratory herbs where tissue soothing is paramount.
Herbal Syrups – Combining Effectiveness with Palatability
Herbal syrups hide the bitter taste of medicinal herbs while adding honey's antimicrobial and throat-coating properties. They work exceptionally well for children and anyone who struggles with herbal tea flavor.
Respiratory Relief Syrup
Ingredients:
- 4 cups water
- 1/4 cup dried mullein leaf
- 1/4 cup marshmallow root, chopped
- 2 tablespoons licorice root, sliced
- 1 tablespoon slippery elm powder
- 2 cups raw honey (preferably local)
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
Method:
- Combine water, mullein, marshmallow root, and licorice in a pot. Bring to a boil, then simmer covered for 30 minutes.
- Strain herbs, squeezing to extract all liquid. You should have approximately 2 cups of decoction.
- Return liquid to pot and whisk in slippery elm powder until fully dissolved.
- Remove from heat and cool to below 110°F (warm to touch, not hot). Heat destroys honey's beneficial enzymes.
- Stir in honey and lemon juice until completely incorporated.
- Pour into sterilized glass bottles. Store in refrigerator.
Dosing: Adults: 1 tablespoon every 3-4 hours as needed. Children over 2 years: 1 teaspoon every 3-4 hours. Do not give honey to infants under 1 year (botulism risk).
Shelf life: Properly prepared and refrigerated, this syrup keeps for 2-3 months. If you see mold or fermentation bubbles, discard it.
Pro tip: You can add 1-2 dropperfuls of our mullein or marshmallow glycerin extract to each dose for enhanced potency without additional preparation.
When to Combine Herbs and When to See a Practitioner
Single herbs work beautifully for simple, acute conditions. However, chronic or complex respiratory issues often require herbal formulas that address multiple pattern components simultaneously. Understanding when to combine herbs and when to seek professional guidance protects your health and maximizes results.
Combining Herbs Safely: Basic Principles
TCM formulas follow a hierarchical structure with four roles: chief (targets primary pattern), deputy (supports chief and addresses secondary symptoms), assistant (moderates harsh properties or targets additional symptoms), and envoy (harmonizes the formula and guides herbs to specific channels). This structure prevents herb interactions and balances opposing energetics.
Start simple: Begin with 2-3 herbs maximum if you are new to herbal combining. The formulas provided in this guide follow safe, traditional combinations. As you gain experience and knowledge, expand gradually.
Match energetics: Combining warming and cooling herbs without understanding the underlying pattern can worsen symptoms. For example, adding hot, drying herbs like ginger to a Lung dryness pattern (where scanty phlegm and thirst predominate) will aggravate the condition. Always assess whether your phlegm pattern is hot or cold, excess or deficiency.
Watch for contraindications: Some herbs should not be combined. For instance, avoid combining multiple strong expectorants, which can overstimulate and exhaust the Lung. Similarly, combining multiple blood-pressure-affecting herbs (like licorice with hawthorn) requires professional oversight.
When Professional Help Is Essential
Self-care works for common colds, seasonal congestion, and minor respiratory discomfort. However, certain situations demand professional evaluation:
- Symptoms lasting more than 2-3 weeks: Chronic phlegm production suggests underlying issues like allergies, structural problems, or low-grade infections that require diagnosis.
- Blood in phlegm: This always warrants immediate medical evaluation to rule out serious conditions.
- Fever above 101°F (38.3°C) lasting more than 3 days: High persistent fever indicates infection requiring medical attention.
- Difficulty breathing or chest pain: These symptoms may signal pneumonia, bronchitis, or other serious respiratory conditions.
- Underlying health conditions: If you have asthma, COPD, heart disease, kidney disease, or are immunocompromised, consult your healthcare provider before using herbs.
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Many herbs affect hormones or cross the placental barrier. Always consult a qualified herbalist or midwife before using herbs during pregnancy.
- Children under 2 years: Young children require specialized dosing and careful herb selection. Work with a pediatric herbalist or naturopathic doctor.
Combined Formulas for Different Patterns
These formulas demonstrate how TCM practitioners combine herbs for specific phlegm patterns. Use them as templates, adjusting proportions based on your predominant symptoms.
Hot Phlegm Formula (yellow-green mucus, thirst, red throat):
- 2 parts mullein leaf (clears heat, transforms phlegm)
- 1 part licorice root (clears heat-toxin, harmonizes)
- 1 part marshmallow root (moistens, prevents dryness)
Prepare as infusion or decoction. Drink 3 cups daily. Or combine 2 dropperfuls mullein extract + 1 dropperful marshmallow extract in water, 3 times daily.
Cold Phlegm Formula (white/clear mucus, chills, fatigue):
- 2 parts mullein leaf (gently warms, transforms phlegm)
- 1 part licorice root (tonifies Spleen Qi, harmonizes)
- 1/2 part ginger root, fresh (warms, dries dampness)
Prepare as decoction. Drink warm, 2-3 cups daily.
Lung Dryness Formula (scanty thick phlegm, dry cough, thirst):
- 2 parts marshmallow root (deeply moistens)
- 1 part slippery elm bark (coats, soothes)
- 1 part mullein leaf (moistens, gentle expectorant)
Prepare marshmallow as cold infusion, add other herbs as warm infusion. Drink 3-4 cups daily. Or use 2 dropperfuls marshmallow extract + 1 dropperful mullein extract in water, 3-4 times daily.
Safety & Disclaimer
Important Safety Information
The information in this guide is for educational purposes and does not replace professional medical advice. Herbs are potent medicines that can interact with medications and existing health conditions.
Contraindications and precautions:
- Do not use licorice root if you have high blood pressure, heart disease, kidney disease, hypokalemia, or are pregnant.
- Mullein leaf hairs can irritate; always strain thoroughly through fine cloth.
- Slippery elm may slow absorption of oral medications; take medications 1 hour before or 2-3 hours after slippery elm.
- Marshmallow root may lower blood sugar; monitor closely if diabetic.
- Never give honey to infants under 12 months due to botulism risk.
- If symptoms worsen or new symptoms develop, discontinue use and consult a healthcare provider.
Drug interactions: These herbs may interact with diabetes medications, blood pressure medications, diuretics, corticosteroids, and immunosuppressants. Consult your pharmacist or doctor before combining herbs with prescription medications.
Glycerin extracts: Our alcohol-free glycerin extracts are safe for most individuals. However, those with glycerin sensitivity should avoid. People with diabetes should monitor blood sugar when taking glycerin-based extracts, though the small amounts used in herbal extracts rarely cause issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take for herbs to clear phlegm?
For acute congestion from common colds, you should notice improvement within 24-48 hours of consistent use. Demulcent herbs like marshmallow and slippery elm provide immediate throat relief within minutes. Expectorant herbs like mullein work more gradually, loosening mucus over 1-3 days. Chronic phlegm patterns may require 2-4 weeks of consistent herbal therapy combined with dietary and lifestyle changes.
Can I use these herbs if I am taking prescription medications?
Some herbs interact with medications. Licorice affects blood pressure medications and diuretics. Slippery elm and marshmallow may reduce absorption of oral medications. Always take herbs at least 2 hours apart from medications and inform your healthcare provider about all herbs you use. Never discontinue prescription medications without medical supervision.
What is the difference between hot and cold phlegm in TCM?
Hot phlegm appears yellow or green, thick and sticky, often with sore throat, thirst, and possible fever. It requires cooling, heat-clearing herbs. Cold phlegm appears white or clear, thin or frothy, often with chills, fatigue, and poor appetite. It requires warming, drying herbs. Correct pattern identification determines which herbs to use.
Are these herbs safe for children?
Mullein, marshmallow, and slippery elm are generally safe for children over 2 years at reduced doses. Our alcohol-free glycerin extracts are specifically formulated to be safe and pleasant-tasting for children. Use approximately 1/4 adult dose for children 2-6 years, 1/2 adult dose for children 6-12 years. Licorice requires more caution in children; consult a pediatric herbalist for appropriate dosing. Never give honey-based preparations to infants under 12 months.
Can I take these herbs long-term for chronic mucus?
Mullein, marshmallow, and slippery elm are safe for long-term use (several months) under professional guidance. Licorice should not exceed 2-3 weeks of continuous use without supervision due to potential effects on blood pressure and potassium levels. Chronic phlegm production often signals deeper constitutional imbalances that benefit from professional TCM diagnosis and customized formulas.
How should I store dried herbs and extracts?
Store dried herbs in airtight glass jars away from light, heat, and moisture. Properly stored, most dried herbs maintain potency for 1-2 years. Glycerin extracts stored in amber glass bottles away from heat and light last 2-3 years. Always label containers with herb name and date. Discard herbs that smell musty, look moldy, or have lost color and aroma. Our extracts include expiration dates on each bottle.
What dietary changes support phlegm clearance?
TCM recommends reducing dairy products, cold foods, excessive sweets, and heavy, greasy foods, all of which generate dampness and phlegm. Increase warming spices like ginger and garlic, pungent vegetables like radish and onion, and bitter greens. Stay well-hydrated with warm fluids. Avoid iced drinks, which impair Spleen function and worsen dampness.
Why are your extracts alcohol-free?
We specialize in glycerin-based extracts because they offer superior benefits for respiratory herbs. Glycerin preserves delicate mucilage compounds that alcohol can denature, provides natural soothing properties, tastes pleasant, and is safe for all ages including children and those avoiding alcohol. Our Eternal Extraction Method captures the complete therapeutic profile of each herb without alcohol's drawbacks.
