What Is Cough Relief (C) Supplement?
Cough Relief (C) is a traditional Chinese herbal formula designed to support individuals experiencing a lingering dry cough, cough with very little phlegm, dry or irritated throat, nighttime coughing, Lung dryness, and recurring respiratory discomfort.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), a lingering dry cough may develop when the Lung becomes dry, Lung Yin is insufficient, or the normal descending movement of Lung Qi is disrupted. These patterns may develop after a seasonal respiratory concern or from prolonged exposure to dry air, smoke, cold wind, environmental irritants, insufficient fluids, or constitutional weakness.
When the Lung lacks adequate moisture and nourishment, individuals may experience repeated dry coughing, throat irritation, hoarseness, coughing with little or difficult-to-clear phlegm, or symptoms that become more noticeable at night. The cough may improve temporarily but repeatedly return when the underlying Lung imbalance remains.
Cough Relief (C) is traditionally used to nourish the Lung, moisten dryness, support the normal descending movement of Lung Qi, maintain healthy mucus balance, and promote respiratory and throat comfort. It is commonly selected for lingering dry cough, cough with very little phlegm, nighttime coughing, dry throat, and TCM patterns involving Lung dryness or Lung Yin deficiency.*
Common Signs of Lung Imbalance in Traditional Chinese Medicine
- Lingering or recurring dry cough
- Cough with very little phlegm
- Scanty or difficult-to-clear mucus
- Dry, irritated, or uncomfortable throat
- Nighttime coughing
- Cough that improves but repeatedly returns
- Throat tickling that triggers coughing
- Occasional hoarseness or weak voice
- Respiratory discomfort after a seasonal illness
- Symptoms aggravated by dry air
- Sensitivity to cold air, wind, or seasonal changes
- Feelings of dryness or internal warmth
- Signs associated with Lung Yin deficiency
- Long-term respiratory weakness
Why Choose Silkie Herbs Cough Relief (C)?
- Based on traditional Chinese herbal principles
- Formulated for lingering dry cough and cough with little phlegm
- Traditionally used to nourish the Lung and moisten dryness
- Supports healthy Lung Qi and respiratory comfort
- Supports dry throat, hoarseness, and throat irritation
- Promotes healthy mucus balance
- Made with carefully selected medicinal herbs
- Designed to support the underlying TCM pattern
Suggested Combination for Lingering Cough and Lung Support
Cough Relief (C) may be paired with Spleen Support, Immune Booster, Allergy Relief, or Kidney Support Yin when a lingering cough occurs with digestive weakness, recurring phlegm, environmental sensitivities, weakened defensive Qi, or deeper Yin deficiency.
In TCM, healthy respiratory function depends on the coordinated function of the Lung, Spleen, Kidney, and defensive Qi (Wei Qi). Additional formulas may therefore be selected according to the individual’s accompanying symptoms and underlying pattern.
Spleen Support may be considered when coughing occurs with weak digestion, bloating, fatigue, loose stools, heaviness, or recurring phlegm. Supporting Spleen and Stomach Qi helps maintain healthy fluid transformation and reduces the tendency toward Dampness and Phlegm accumulation.*
Immune Booster may be considered when a recurring cough occurs with low energy, sensitivity to cold or wind, frequent seasonal concerns, or weakened defensive Qi. It traditionally supports Lung Qi, Wei Qi, resilience, and year-round respiratory wellness.*
Allergy Relief may be considered when coughing occurs with seasonal sensitivities, sneezing, runny nose, nasal congestion, itchy or watery eyes, sinus discomfort, or excess mucus. It provides additional support for healthy Lung and upper respiratory function.*
Kidney Support Yin may be considered when a dry, lingering cough occurs with dry throat, nighttime coughing, night sweating, internal warmth, or other signs of Yin deficiency. In TCM, nourishing Kidney Yin may provide deeper constitutional support for the Lung and the body’s healthy fluids.*
Together, these formulas provide broader TCM support for Lung function, throat moisture, healthy Qi movement, fluid transformation, defensive Qi, seasonal wellness, and constitutional balance. The appropriate combination depends on the individual’s underlying Traditional Chinese Medicine pattern.*
Non-GMO | Gluten-Free | No refined sugar, corn, or dairy | No artificial colors, flavors, preservatives, chemical binders, or wax
100% Pure all natural herbs, blended, made, and packaged in the USA
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Benefits of Cough Relief (C) Supplement
Supports Relief of Lingering and Recurring Cough Patterns*
Cough Relief (C) is traditionally used to support respiratory comfort when a cough continues for an extended period, improves and returns, or lingers after an earlier respiratory concern. It is especially suited to patterns involving Lung dryness, insufficient Lung nourishment, or disrupted descending of Lung Qi.
Supports Dry Cough and Cough With Little Phlegm*
This formula is traditionally used for dry coughing accompanied by scanty, sticky, or difficult-to-clear phlegm. According to Traditional Chinese Medicine, these signs may occur when dryness or Yin deficiency reduces the fluids needed to moisten the Lung and respiratory tract.
Nourishes Lung Yin and Moistens Lung Dryness*
In TCM, Lung Yin helps nourish and moisten the Lung, throat, and airways. Cough Relief (C) is traditionally used to support Lung Yin, maintain healthy respiratory moisture, and promote comfort when dryness contributes to repeated coughing or throat irritation.
Supports the Normal Descending Movement of Lung Qi*
Healthy Lung Qi naturally moves downward to support comfortable breathing and normal respiratory function. This formula is traditionally used to support that descending movement when rebellious Lung Qi contributes to coughing, chest discomfort, or difficulty settling the respiratory system.
Promotes Healthy Phlegm and Mucus Balance*
Cough Relief (C) contains herbs traditionally used to support the transformation and clearance of Phlegm while preserving healthy respiratory moisture. It may be considered when mucus is scanty, difficult to expectorate, or changes as a cough develops.
Soothes a Dry or Irritated Throat*
Repeated coughing and insufficient Lung moisture may contribute to a dry, irritated, tickling, or uncomfortable throat. This formula is traditionally used to moisten dryness and support throat comfort, voice comfort, and healthy respiratory tissues.
Supports Respiratory Comfort During the Day and Night*
TCM evaluates when coughing is most noticeable because daytime and nighttime patterns may reflect different underlying imbalances. This formula supports respiratory comfort when a lingering cough occurs throughout the day or becomes more noticeable at night.
Supports the Lung During Seasonal and Environmental Changes*
Cold air, wind, dry weather, smoke, and other environmental irritants may aggravate a sensitive respiratory system. Cough Relief (C) is traditionally used to support Lung function and respiratory comfort during seasonal changes and periods of environmental dryness.
Promotes Long-Term Lung and Respiratory Wellness*
Rather than addressing only temporary throat discomfort, this formula is traditionally used to nourish the Lung, maintain healthy Lung Qi movement, support respiratory moisture, and promote long-term respiratory balance according to Traditional Chinese herbal principles.
Individual results may vary. Improvement often develops gradually as Lung moisture, healthy Lung Qi movement, mucus balance, and respiratory comfort are supported.
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Common Signs You May Need Cough Relief (C) Supplement
This formula is most appropriate for Traditional Chinese Medicine patterns involving a lingering or recurring cough, Lung dryness, Lung Yin deficiency, scanty phlegm, and impaired descending of Lung Qi. Different individuals may experience different signs, such as:
Lingering or Persistent Dry Cough
The cough may continue for an extended period after the original respiratory discomfort has passed. It may occur repeatedly throughout the day and feel dry, irritating, or difficult to settle.
Cough With Very Little or No Phlegm
Some individuals cough frequently but produce little or no mucus. In TCM, a dry cough with scanty phlegm may be associated with Lung dryness, insufficient Lung Yin, or inadequate respiratory fluids.
Scanty, Sticky, or Difficult-to-Clear Phlegm
When phlegm is present, it may feel thick, sticky, or difficult to expectorate despite repeated coughing. This may indicate that dryness is affecting the Lung’s ability to moisten and clear the respiratory passages.
Dry, Irritated, or Tickling Throat
A dry, scratchy, irritated, or tickling sensation in the throat may repeatedly trigger coughing. The throat may feel uncomfortable even when there is little visible mucus or congestion.
Cough That Becomes Worse at Night
Some individuals experience more frequent or disruptive coughing in the evening, during the night, or while lying down. According to TCM, nighttime coughing may be associated with Lung Yin deficiency, Kidney deficiency, Spleen weakness, or Phlegm-Dampness.
Cough That Improves and Repeatedly Returns
The cough may temporarily improve but return after exposure to cold air, wind, dry weather, fatigue, seasonal changes, or insufficient rest. This recurring pattern may reflect an underlying weakness that has not been fully restored.
Cough Following an Earlier Wind-Cold Pattern
A cough may begin suddenly with sensitivity to wind or cold, nasal congestion, and initially clear phlegm. As the external pattern changes, the cough may linger and become drier, with less mucus and continued throat irritation.
Hoarseness or Weakness of the Voice
Repeated coughing and insufficient Lung moisture may contribute to occasional hoarseness, a dry voice, reduced vocal strength, or discomfort when speaking for extended periods.
Long-Term Lung Weakness and Reduced Respiratory Comfort
Individuals may experience a recurring tendency toward coughing, sensitivity to seasonal changes, reduced respiratory vitality, or slow recovery following respiratory discomfort. In TCM, long-standing patterns may involve the Lung together with the Spleen or Kidney systems.
This formula is best matched to lingering or recurring cough patterns involving dryness, scanty phlegm, throat irritation, Lung Yin deficiency, or impaired Lung Qi movement. A new cough with pronounced fever, abundant yellow phlegm, or a distinctly different TCM presentation may require a different formula.
Individuals with more complex, recurring, or long-standing respiratory patterns may benefit from additional herbal support selected according to the underlying involvement of the Lung, Spleen, Kidney, Phlegm, Dampness, or defensive Qi.
Diet & Lifestyle Tips for Dry Cough and Lung Health
According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), healthy Lung function depends on adequate moisture, smooth Lung Qi movement, balanced digestion, proper rest, and protection from environmental dryness and irritation. Daily habits that nourish the Lung and preserve body fluids may help support throat comfort, healthy breathing, and long-term respiratory wellness.
Daily Habits to Support Dry Cough and Lung Health
For best results while using Cough Relief (C) Supplement:
- Drink warm or room-temperature water regularly throughout the day.
- Choose warm, freshly prepared meals instead of excessive cold or raw foods.
- Get adequate sleep and maintain a consistent sleep schedule.
- Use a humidifier when indoor air is especially dry.
- Practice gentle breathing exercises, Tai Chi, Qigong, or regular walking.
- Protect the throat and chest from cold air and wind.
- Avoid prolonged exposure to smoke, dust, strong fragrances, and other respiratory irritants.
- Remain physically active while allowing adequate rest during periods of respiratory discomfort.
- Manage stress through meditation, deep breathing, or other calming practices.
Foods & Habits to Limit
Individuals experiencing dry cough, throat irritation, or Lung dryness may benefit from limiting:
- Smoking, vaping, and tobacco products
- Exposure to secondhand smoke
- Excess alcohol
- Excess coffee, energy drinks, and caffeinated beverages
- Deep-fried, greasy, or heavily processed foods
- Excessively spicy, pungent, or heavily seasoned foods
- Excess sugar and sugary beverages
- Excessive cold foods and iced beverages
- Late-night meals and irregular eating habits
Foods Traditionally Supportive of Lung Health
Foods traditionally considered supportive of Lung moisture and respiratory wellness include warm soups, cooked pears, white fungus, lily bulb, honey when appropriate, steamed vegetables, rice porridge, whole grains, almonds, and other nourishing foods suited to the individual’s constitution.
From a TCM perspective, dry cough may become more noticeable when the Lung and throat lack adequate moisture. Warm, gently prepared foods and sufficient fluids can help preserve body fluids while avoiding unnecessary strain on digestion.
Supporting Lung Health from Within
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, the Lung governs Qi and respiration and works closely with the Spleen, Kidney, and defensive Qi. The Spleen helps produce Qi and fluids that support the Lung, while the Kidney provides deeper constitutional support for healthy breathing and fluid balance.
Consistent hydration, nourishing foods, healthy digestion, sufficient sleep, regular movement, and protection from excessive dryness can complement a traditional Chinese herbal wellness routine and support throat comfort, healthy Lung Qi, and long-term respiratory balance.
Individual needs may vary according to constitution, digestive tolerance, environmental exposure, and Traditional Chinese Medicine pattern.
Key Ingredients in Cough (C) Relief Supplement
Cough Relief contains a carefully selected combination of traditional Chinese herbs that work together to support Lung health, soothe the throat, maintain healthy respiratory function, and promote overall Lung wellness.
Aster Root (Zi Wan)
Traditionally used in Chinese herbal practice to support healthy Lung function, soothe lingering dry coughs, promote comfortable breathing, and help maintain healthy respiratory passages.
Loquat Leaf (Pi Pa Ye)
Traditionally used to support throat comfort, maintain healthy Lung function, and promote comfortable breathing. Loquat Leaf has long been used to soothe dry throat and support respiratory wellness.
Tangerine Peel (Chen Pi)
Traditionally used to support healthy Qi movement, strengthen digestion, and help maintain normal moisture balance within the respiratory system. Tangerine Peel also helps harmonize traditional herbal formulas.
Platycodon Root (Jie Geng)
Traditionally used to open the Lung, promote the dispersing movement of Lung Qi, transform Phlegm, and soothe the throat. It is commonly included in formulas for cough, hoarseness, throat discomfort, and difficult-to-clear phlegm.
Stemona Root (Bai Bu)
Traditionally used to support healthy respiratory function, soothe occasional throat irritation, and maintain overall Lung wellness. Stemona Root is commonly included in traditional formulas designed for lingering coughs with minimal phlegm.
Fritillaria Bulb (Chuan Bei Mu)
Traditionally used to nourish the Lungs, moisten dryness, support healthy mucus balance, and promote throat comfort. Fritillaria Bulb is one of the most valued herbs in Traditional Chinese Medicine for supporting dry coughs and healthy Lung function.
Pure Honey
Used as the traditional binding agent for Silkie Herbs honey-bound herbal pills. Honey has historically been used to harmonize herbal formulas, soothe the throat, support digestion, help preserve freshness, and improve palatability.
Together, these herbs have traditionally been used to support dry cough relief, soothe dry throat, nourish the Lungs, promote healthy respiratory function, maintain comfortable breathing, and support long-term Lung health and wellness.*
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
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Serving Size: 10 pills Servings Per Container: 30 Amount Per Serving: 3,000 mg |
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Herbal Blend: Aster Root Loquat Leaf Tangerine Peel Platycodon Root Japanese Stemona Root Fritillaria Bulb |
| Other ingredient: Pure Honey (Traditional Binding Agent) |
How to Take Cough Relief Supplement
Adults or teenagers may take 1–10 pills once or twice daily with warm water, or as directed by a qualified Traditional Chinese Medicine practitioner. If taking medications or other supplements, allow at least 2 hours before or after using this product.
Respiratory health and throat comfort are influenced by many factors, including hydration, air quality, nutrition, rest, and overall wellness. Individual response depends on constitution, duration of the pattern, symptom severity, lifestyle habits, and consistency of use. Traditional herbal support may develop gradually with continued use as directed.
For best results, take consistently as directed. Traditional Chinese herbal formulas are often used daily as part of a long-term wellness routine.
Research on Herbs in Cough Relief (C) Supplement
Modern research has examined herbs used in Cough Relief (C) Supplement, particularly Fritillaria Bulb (Chuan Bei Mu), Loquat Leaf (Pi Pa Ye), and Platycodon Root (Jie Geng). Published reviews and experimental studies have explored their traditional respiratory uses, phytochemistry, cough-response activity, mucus clearance, antioxidant activity, inflammatory-response pathways, and other respiratory-related biological properties.
Research on Fritillaria Bulb has examined naturally occurring alkaloids such as imperialine, verticine, and verticinone. Laboratory and animal studies have investigated their potential antitussive, expectorant, antioxidant, and inflammation-regulating activities, including their influence on cough frequency, mucus clearance, inflammatory mediators, and respiratory pathways. Research involving Loquat Leaf has examined its flavonoids, triterpenoid acids, and other compounds for their potential roles in supporting cough response, expectoration, mucus balance, and respiratory comfort.
Research on Platycodon Root has explored its traditional uses, phytochemistry, pharmacology, and naturally occurring saponins. Published studies have investigated its potential antitussive, expectorant, antioxidant, and inflammatory-response activities, as well as its traditional role in supporting the Lung, soothing the throat, promoting the movement of Lung Qi, and helping clear Phlegm.
From a Traditional Chinese Medicine perspective, Cough Relief (C) Supplement is formulated for lingering dry cough, cough with very little phlegm, Lung dryness, Lung Yin deficiency, impaired descending of Lung Qi, and Phlegm that is difficult to clear. The herbs are traditionally combined to moisten and support the Lung, promote the normal descending movement of Lung Qi, transform Phlegm, soothe the throat, and maintain respiratory comfort.
Current research applies to the individual herbs and their naturally occurring compounds. It should not be interpreted as clinical proof that the finished Cough Relief (C) formula diagnoses, treats, cures, or prevents any disease.
Research References
Bulbus Fritillariae Cirrhosae as a Respiratory Medicine: Is There a Potential Drug in the Treatment of COVID-19?
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8811224/
Antitussive and Expectorant Properties of Growing and Fallen Leaves of Loquat (Eriobotrya japonica)
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1016/j.bjp.2018.02.006
Platycodon grandiflorus—An Ethnopharmacological, Phytochemical and Pharmacological Review
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25666431/
Why Silkie Herbs
Silkie formulas are rooted in five generations of traditional herbal practice—not trend-based supplement marketing.
- 5th-Generation Herbalist Family Tradition
- Traditional Chinese Herbal Formulas
- Traditional Honey-Bound Herbal Pills
- No Capsules
- No Compressed Tablets
- No Artificial Binders or Fillers
- No Lubricants or Flow Agents
- Made in the USA
- Third-Party Tested
- Carefully Selected Medicinal Herbs
- Traditional Herb Preparation Methods (Pao Zhi)
- Classical Formula Design
Silkie Herbs formulas are rooted in five generations of Traditional Chinese Medicine herbal practice. Rather than following supplement trends, our formulas are based on traditional herbal principles passed down through generations and refined through decades of practical experience.
Unlike most modern supplements, Silkie Herbs uses traditional honey-bound herbal pills instead of capsules or compressed tablets. We do not use capsule shells, artificial fillers, synthetic binders, lubricants, flow agents, chemical coatings, or wax. Pure honey is used as the only binding agent to form the finely ground herbs into small traditional pills.
Modern research has examined honey’s naturally low water activity, acidity, and antimicrobial characteristics. In Silkie formulas, honey is used primarily as a traditional binding agent, while the quality and purity of every finished formula are verified through third-party testing.
Every formula is manufactured in the United States using carefully selected medicinal herbs and traditional preparation methods. Each batch undergoes third-party testing for identity, purity, heavy metals, pesticides, and microbial contaminants to help ensure quality and consistency.
True healing takes time. Silkie formulas honor the body’s natural ability to restore balance—the way herbal medicine has always been practiced.
100% Pure all natural herbs, blended, made, and packaged in the USA
Important Safety Information and Cautions
Keep out of reach of children. Use only as directed. If discomfort or irritation occurs, discontinue use and seek professional guidance.
Traditional Chinese herbal formulas should be selected according to the individual’s Traditional Chinese Medicine pattern. For personalized guidance, consult a professional TCM practitioner.
Consult a qualified healthcare professional before use if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medications, or have a medical condition.
Traditional Herbs in Cough Relief (C)
Aster Root
Aster Root (Zi Wan) is traditionally used in Chinese herbal medicine to moisten the Lung, descend Lung Qi, and support the transformation of Phlegm. In TCM, it is commonly included in formulas for lingering cough, cough with little phlegm, throat discomfort, and patterns involving impaired descending of Lung Qi.
Traditional Herbs in Cough Relief (C)
Aster Root
Aster Root (Zi Wan) is traditionally used in Chinese herbal medicine to moisten the Lung, descend Lung Qi, and support the transformation of Phlegm. In TCM, it is commonly included in formulas for lingering cough, cough with little phlegm, throat discomfort, and patterns involving impaired descending of Lung Qi.
Loquat Leaf
Loquat Leaf (Pi Pa Ye) is traditionally used in Chinese herbal medicine to clear Lung Heat, descend Lung Qi, and support healthy mucus balance. In TCM, it is commonly included in formulas for dry or lingering cough, throat irritation, difficult-to-clear phlegm, and respiratory patterns involving rebellious Lung Qi.
Stemona Root
Stemona Root (Bai Bu) is traditionally used in Chinese herbal medicine to moisten the Lung, support normal Lung Qi, and soothe persistent coughing. In TCM, it is commonly included in formulas for lingering dry cough, cough with little phlegm, throat irritation, and recurring respiratory discomfort.
Fritillaria Bulb
Fritillaria Bulb (Chuan Bei Mu) is traditionally used in Chinese herbal medicine to moisten the Lung, clear Heat, and support the transformation of Phlegm. In TCM, it is commonly included in formulas for dry cough, lingering cough, scanty or difficult-to-clear phlegm, and Lung dryness accompanied by Heat.
honey is the only binding agent
no artificial fillers or ingredients
herbs harvested at the height of potency
100% Natural
Our herbal supplements are made with natural honey as the binder. Honey can support the lungs, intestine, spleen, and stomach; It works as a natural preservative with antibacterial and healing properties. Unlike other herbal supplement companies that use starch, magnesium, and other chemical substances as binders for their supplements, we only use 100% honey. We also avoid using vegetable capsules because they require chemical components to form the capsule shape.
Peak Harvest Herbs
The herbs in our herbal pill blends are harvested at the height of their potency and they are substantially more expensive than less potent herbs that were harvested in the pre-or post-season, but in our view, there is no substitute for premium quality.
5 Generations
Over five generations we have collected, tested and refined Chinese herbal formulas that themselves draw from 3,000 years of experience of Traditional Chinese Medicine. Traditional Chinese Medicine is a profound pathway to create the life you were born to live. It's a timeless bridge that can initiate and support change and growth in any and every life dimension: physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual.
Message From Ann
“Good Health is crucial for our overall well-being. It encompasses physical, mental, and emotional aspects, and it's important to prioritize taking care of ourselves to lead a fulfilling life. Emphasizing prevention over cure is paramount for maintaining this balance. Without health, life can become incredibly challenging. It affects our ability to pursue our goals, enjoy our relationships, and experience daily life to the fullest. Good health forms the foundation for everything else we want to achieve and experience.” - Ann Tam
Click below for
Ann's Story
Here's my story.
If you feel skeptical or unsure of Chinese herbal remedies, I could hardly blame you. I wasn't a believer either until my daughter grew very sick and my father (the 4th generation herbalist) helped her get better with herbs.
I was born into a family of herbalists. My father, my grandfather, my great-grandfather, great-great grandfather were all herbalists. I represent the 5th generation in this long lineage dating back to Imperial China.
When I was three or four years old, I started to learn herbal songs and how to identify herbs. As I got older, I was taught how to process the herbs while working in my dad’s clinic in Vietnam. After we immigrated to the United States, my dad asked me if I wanted to pursue a career in TCM as an herbalist or acupuncturist. I said, “No, just leave me alone, Dad. I will find something I enjoy doing for work.” So, he left me alone to find my own way.
I wanted nothing to do with herbal medicine until I gave birth to my second daughter, Catherine, who was born with severe gastric reflux. When Catherine was 10 days old, I had to take her to the ER for IV injections into her little hand because she couldn’t keep milk down. Besides vomiting, she also was having diarrhea. Catherine was losing nutrition from both ends, so her tiny body was shrinking. At that time my dad warned me, “She needs to be treated with herbal medicine, otherwise she will have seizures later on.” I didn’t fully understand what my dad was talking about, so I ignored him.
My daughter got so ill that she could only take half an ounce of milk per hour. Before feeding her, I would use a syringe and shoot Zantac into her mouth to lessen the vomiting. As time passed, she needed milk more often, and consequently more Zantac. By the time Catherine was 8 months old, she needed to be fed and medicated 11 times a day.
I could hardly sleep, eat, shower or rest. Even at night, I had to drape my daughter over my shoulder for her to sleep. If I put Catherine down, she would vomit. I barely had time to squeeze in a 5-minute shower once or twice a week for myself. I was exhausted, but what could I do? I had to care for my daughter and do my best to survive each day with the hope that she would get better or at the very least her condition would not worsen.
Catherine had to wear a turtleneck with two sweaters along with a baby cap and scarf to be outside during the heat of summer, even when temperatures were 100 plus degrees. If I didn’t cover her up, she would have a runny nose, cough, and non stop vomiting. How will she be able to go to school or anywhere with air conditioning?
One day we went to a Vietnamese pho restaurant. After I set Catherine down into the high-chair, I turned around and adjusted my chair. Then I heard a woman’s shout, “Look at her!” I looked in the direction she pointed. It was Catherine…her eyes rolled up and her entire body stiff and shaking with fluid coming out of her mouth. Someone said, “Squeeze some lemon into her mouth.” I did it without hesitating and Catherine’s body relaxed.
We rushed her to the ER. For 3 days she was in the NICU where they monitored her brain. The doctors told me I was lucky because my daughter’s seizure didn’t last for more than 3 minutes which would have damaged her brain. After that I always carried a piece of lemon because I had no idea when my baby girl might have another seizure.
The seizures started to come weekly, so the doctor prescribed anti-seizure medication. Catherine wasn’t even 1 year of age, and already she was taking Zantac 11 times plus anti-seizure medicine 3 times a day. It was nearly impossible to administer the anti-seizure medicine because whenever I took out the syringe, she would cry and start vomiting.
I took Catherine to see a specialist at CHOC. I asked, “Doctor, have you ever seen any infant with this condition get well?” The doctor replied, “It depends. Some will grow out of it, but some don’t. If they don’t, then they will have to take medication for the rest of their life.”
“What do you mean by grow out of it?” The doctor explained that Catherine might get better by herself as she got older.
My mind was racing. “All this time the prescribed medication has not been treating her stomach?” The doctor said, “No, it only helps to guide the food down, so she won’t vomit it back up. That’s why you have to give it to her before the feeding.”
“Well, what if she doesn’t grow out of it?” In that case, Catherine will be dependent upon medication for the rest of her life. The doctor further informed me that she too was born with gastro reflux and is still taking medicine for the condition.
Her statement was like lightning in my brain. If the doctor can’t even treat herself for gastro reflux, how can she help my daughter? Seeing the futility of my path, I turned to my dad for help.
My dad advised me to stop all western drugs and to give her an herbal prescription 3 times a day. Administering medicine 3 times instead of 14 times a day to Catherine was a godsend to me. Even though it sounded too good to be true, I figured that I could still give Zantac to Catherine if she didn’t get better or continued to vomit.
After one month of herbs 3 times a day, Catherine vomited less and less. To test Catherine, I let her cry to see if she would vomit. She didn’t, so I knew she was getting better. After another month of herbal medicine, Catherine was able to wear less clothing without getting a runny nose, coughing, or vomiting. After 3 months of herbal formulas, she stopped having episodes of gastro reflux and seizure. Catherine will enjoy a normal, healthy life.
Because of Catherine’s dramatic recovery, I was sold on Chinese medicine and asked my dad to treat me. I fainted very easily, especially during the winter. After a few months of herbal formulas, I have never fainted again.
I started to have time to think and tried to understand why a piece of lemon helps to relax the muscles and stop a seizure. Lemon is a common citrus, yet it has magical powers that we don’t understand and underestimate. I wanted to learn more and find answers, so I decided to go to China which has a long history of herbal medicine. I went to TCM schools in China and Hong Kong and worked in the TCM hospitals to learn from the best herbal doctors in the world.
When I was there, I knew one day I would want to become an herbalist, but how can I get a steady supply of high-quality herbs. My dad and I backpacked across China and visited many farmlands. We interviewed farmers to grow herbs for us. Our products are used with the highest quality herbs that have been harvested at the height of their potency. They are substantially more expensive than less potent herbs that were harvested in the pre- or post-season.
After I came back to the United State, I worked with my dad and learned from his experiences and studied the formulas that our ancestors passed down. What I have been through helped me to understand the importance of health. Without health, don’t even talk about career, beauty, education, freedom, etc. I now have worked with many families who have suffered as I have. Their endearing appreciation drives me to work harder.
Our namesake "Silkie" is a Chinese breed of chicken that is well known for its calm and friendly temperament. They are gentle and caring and make wonderful mothers. A Silkie loves nothing more than brooding a cluster of eggs, whether they are hers or not, even if they are "duck eggs". We share the same outlook and care for our clients the same way we care for our own family.