Question

A 4-month-old baby is experiencing cough and nasal congestion. The parent asks whether it is okay to give the baby loquat leaves for treatment.

Answer

Based on the parent’s description, the child may have a wind-cold cold with cough. This type of cough is usually accompanied by frequent coughing, thin, white sputum, clear nasal discharge, a pale and red tongue, and a thin white coating. It is suggested to use Sanao Decoction along with herbs that reduce Qi and phlegm for treatment. Additionally, the baby’s ear scratching behavior may be due to internal heat, which is often a symptom of disharmony in the internal organs’ Qi and blood and is not a severe illness. It is recommended to use Qingwei Powder for treatment.