Pei Pa Koa syrup is a traditional Chinese herbal remedy that has been used for centuries to treat sore throats, coughs, and other respiratory ailments. The main ingredients in Pei Pa Koa are honey, licorice root, mint leaves, and loquat leaves. This aromatic syrup has a sweet yet minty flavor and viscous consistency.
What are the active ingredients in Pei Pa Koa syrup?
The key active ingredients in Pei Pa Koa syrup include:
- Honey – Has antimicrobial and antibacterial properties. Soothes sore throat pain and coughs.
- Licorice root – Contains glycyrrhizin which has anti-inflammatory effects. Also acts as an expectorant.
- Mint leaves – Cools irritation in the throat, provides a refreshing flavor.
- Loquat leaves – Thought to dissolve phlegm and mucus, reduce coughing.
In addition to these main ingredients, some formulations of Pei Pa Koa may also contain smaller amounts of other herbs like fritillaria bulb, platycodon root, bitter apricot kernels, etc. The blend of ingredients provides multiple therapeutic effects for respiratory ailments.
What are the health benefits of Pei Pa Koa?
Here are some of the main health benefits associated with Pei Pa Koa syrup:
- Soothes sore throat – The viscous syrup coats and protects an inflamed, irritated throat. The honey and herbs have soothing, anti-inflammatory properties.
- Reduces cough – The expectorant and antitussive ingredients help loosen mucus, reduce cough spasms and relieve coughs.
- Thins mucus – Licorice root, mint leaves and loquat leaves help liquefy, thin out thick mucus and phlegm.
- Fights infection – Honey has antimicrobial effects that may help fight bacterial infections associated with respiratory issues.
- Anti-inflammatory effects – Herbs like licorice root reduce swelling and inflammation in the throat and airways.
This combination of soothing, expectorant, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects make Pei Pa Koa an effective traditional remedy for common coughs and sore throats.
What respiratory conditions is Pei Pa Koa used for?
Pei Pa Koa syrup is traditionally used to help treat various minor respiratory conditions including:
- Sore throat
- Cough
- Hoarseness
- Mild laryngitis
- Pharyngitis
- Bronchitis
It can be used for both adults and children over 2 years old. Pei Pa Koa works to ease throat pain, thin mucus, stop cough spasms, and fight infection – providing relief for common illnesses involving the throat, vocal cords and bronchi.
How is Pei Pa Koa syrup used?
Pei Pa Koa syrup can be taken directly by the spoonful as needed to coat and soothe an irritated throat and suppress coughs. The recommended dosage depends on age:
- Children 2-5 years: 1/2 to 1 teaspoon every 2-4 hours
- Children 6-11 years: 1-2 teaspoons every 2-4 hours
- Adults and children over 12 years: 1-2 tablespoons every 2-4 hours
For maximum effectiveness, Pei Pa Koa syrup is best taken undiluted to coat the throat. Drink some water after taking it to spread the syrup and wash it down. It can also be mixed with warm water or tea to dilute the intensity if desired.
Pei Pa Koa is intended for short-term occasional use to relieve sore throats, hoarseness, coughs and similar ailments. It is generally considered safe for up to one week of use in adults and up to 5 days in children without consulting a doctor. Do not exceed the recommended dosages.
Is Pei Pa Koa safe?
When used as directed, Pei Pa Koa syrup is considered safe and well-tolerated for most people. However, there are some precautions to be aware of:
- The licorice root may increase blood pressure or cause electrolyte imbalances if used long term or excessively.
- Allergic reactions are possible, especially in those allergic to honey, licorice, mint, or loquat.
- If sore throat lasts >1 week, consult a doctor to rule out strep or other infections.
- Not recommended for children <2 years old due to choking hazard.
- Pei Pa Koa can interact with some medications, including diuretics, insulin, blood thinners, and more.
Discontinue use if any adverse reactions occur. As with any herbal supplement, it’s a good idea to check with your doctor before using Pei Pa Koa if you have underlying medical conditions or take any medications.
Is Pei Pa Koa FDA approved?
No, Pei Pa Koa is considered a traditional herbal supplement, not an over-the-counter medication, so it does not go through FDA drug approval processes. The FDA does not officially approve or regulate herbs like licorice root, mint leaves, and loquat leaves.
However, reputable manufacturers follow cGMP (current good manufacturing practices) set by the FDA for production and testing. Always look for well-known brands that contain safe, high quality ingredients.
How does Pei Pa Koa work?
Pei Pa Koa works through multiple mechanisms to alleviate respiratory discomfort and coughs:
- Coats and protects – The viscous honey base adheres to and coats irritated tissues in the throat.
- Soothes inflammation – Herbs like licorice root reduce swelling and inflammation.
- Fights infection – Honey has antimicrobial effects against bacteria.
- Thins mucus – Helps loosen thick mucus and phlegm secretions.
- Suppresses cough – Ingredients like licorice root reduce cough reflex sensitivity.
This combination of demulcent, anti-inflammatory, expectorant and antitussive properties provide multidimensional relief for common respiratory complaints involving coughs, congestion and sore throat pain.
How long does Pei Pa Koa last after opening?
Pei Pa Koa syrup can generally last for up to one year after opening if stored properly. Keep the bottle sealed and stored at room temperature away from heat, moisture and direct sunlight.
The honey helps preserve the syrup due to its antimicrobial properties. As long as there is no change in color or consistency and no mold growth, opened Pei Pa Koa should retain its potency and safety for use up to 12 months.
However, for maximum freshness and efficacy, try to use up the syrup within 6 months after opening. Discard if you notice any changes in appearance, smell or texture.
Can you make Pei Pa Koa at home?
It is possible to make a basic Pei Pa Koa syrup at home using simple ingredients like honey, licorice root, loquat leaves and mint leaves. Here is a simple DIY Pei Pa Koa recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup honey
- 1/4 cup chopped licorice root
- 1/4 cup chopped loquat leaves
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
- 1 cup water
Instructions:
- Add the licorice root, loquat leaves, mint leaves and water to a small saucepan.
- Bring to a boil, then lower heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Remove from heat and strain the liquid into a glass jar or bowl.
- Add the honey while the herbal mixture is still warm and stir until fully blended.
- Allow to cool, then transfer to an airtight bottle.
- Store in the fridge for up to 6 months.
This will make a basic DIY Pei Pa Koa syrup to help soothe coughs and sore throats. Be sure to use safe, high quality ingredients from a reputable source.
Where to buy Pei Pa Koa syrup
Here are some places where you can buy Pei Pa Koa syrup:
- Asian grocery stores – Chinese and other Asian markets often carry Pei Pa Koa syrup in their remedy/supplement aisle.
- Online – Large retailers like Amazon have a good selection of name brand Pei Pa Koa syrups available.
- Acupuncture offices – Many traditional Chinese medicine practitioners sell Pei Pa Koa syrup.
- Import shops – Stores specializing in Chinese imports may carry various brands of Pei Pa Koa.
- eBay – Individual sellers on eBay offer Pei Pa Koa syrup shipped directly to you.
Look for reputable national brands like Kulauc, Wang Lao Ji, or Koala to ensure you get authentic, high quality Pei Pa Koa syrup. Prices range from $5 to $15 per bottle depending on brand, size, and source.
What’s the difference between Pei Pa Koa and regular cough syrup?
There are a few key differences between Pei Pa Koa and regular over-the-counter cough syrups:
- Origin – Pei Pa Koa is a traditional Chinese remedy, while most cough syrups are modern pharmaceutical preparations.
- Ingredients – Pei Pa Koa contains all natural herbs like licorice, mint, and loquat. Cough syrups use synthesized active drugs.
- Regulation – Cough syrups are FDA-approved drugs, while Pei Pa Koa is an unregulated herbal supplement.
- Purpose – The main aim of Pei Pa Koa is soothing sore throats. Cough syrups primarily suppress coughs.
- Safety – Pei Pa Koa has minimal side effects. Cough syrups have greater risk of side effects and interactions.
While Pei Pa Koa and cough syrups both aim to treat respiratory issues, Pei Pa Koa offers a more natural, holistic approach focused on symptom relief versus pharmacological action.
Conclusion
Pei Pa Koa syrup is a time-tested Chinese remedy that provides soothing relief for sore throats, coughs, and other minor respiratory complaints. It works by coating the throat, reducing inflammation and mucus, suppressing coughs, and fighting infection. The multi-dimensional effects provide safe, natural symptom relief. When used as directed, Pei Pa Koa can be an effective traditional medicine for both children and adults alike.
