Ryukakusan originated in Japan and has a history of over 200 years. Initially used as a cold remedy, modern pharmacological research has revealed its significant benefits for throat health. As a result, many tourists visiting Japan bring this classic product back home as a local specialty.

Hailed as a "miracle medicine from Japan," Ryukakusan is extremely popular and comes in two flavors to cater to different preferences: blue mint and pink peach. It effectively alleviates throat discomfort caused by smoking, colds, and other issues, such as sore throats and persistent coughing. To use it, simply sprinkle the powder directly into the throat, where it instantly dissolves and provides soothing relief. Its sweet and refreshing taste is quite pleasant. Additionally, Ryukakusan is made from refined herbal ingredients, making it safe with no side effects. It's suitable for people of all ages, from children as young as 3 to the elderly up to 80 years old.

### The Efficacy and Benefits of Ryukakusan

As a traditional Japanese medicine, Ryukakusan is well-known for its remarkable throat-soothing effects. Here are the primary benefits and uses of Ryukakusan:

#### 1. Cough Relief and Phlegm Reduction

Ryukakusan contains ingredients such as platycodon (balloon flower root) and polygala, which have dual functions of expelling phlegm and calming the mind. These ingredients effectively alleviate cough accompanied by excessive phlegm, helping to clear the throat and reduce the frequency of coughing.

#### 2. Cooling Heat, Calming Wind, and Relieving Asthma

The earthworm extract in Ryukakusan helps clear internal heat, calm "wind" (a traditional Chinese medicine concept related to internal imbalances), and ease coughing and asthma symptoms. It regulates internal heat and cold imbalances, reducing cough and wheezing. Additionally, the earthworm extract promotes blood circulation, helping improve symptoms like excessive phlegm and asthmatic coughing.

#### 3. Prevention and Treatment of Pharyngitis

Ryukakusan's lozenges are particularly effective in preventing and alleviating pharyngitis due to their properties of clearing heat, reducing inflammation, and suppressing cough. Its soothing ingredients help reduce throat pain and inflammation, maintaining overall throat health.

These benefits have made Ryukakusan extremely popular not only in Japan but also among tourists, who often take it home as a remedy for throat discomfort.

### Correct Usage of Ryukakusan

Ryukakusan is an effective throat-soothing remedy, and understanding the correct usage method can help maximize its benefits. Here are the two main methods of taking Ryukakusan:

#### 1. **Direct Application Method**

Sprinkle the Ryukakusan powder directly into your mouth and let it naturally dissolve before swallowing. This method allows the medicine to act directly on the throat, providing quick relief from symptoms like throat discomfort and coughing. It is recommended to maintain a gap of at least 2 hours between doses to ensure optimal effectiveness.

#### 2. **Dissolving in Warm Water**

Pour the Ryukakusan powder into warm water, stir until fully dissolved, and then drink. While this method may be slightly less effective than direct application, it still provides therapeutic effects. This option is suitable for those who prefer not to take the powder directly or need water to aid in swallowing.

Regardless of the method, it’s essential to follow the instructions provided or consult with a doctor to ensure the best results.

---

### Dosage and Frequency Guidelines

Proper dosage and frequency are critical to ensuring the effectiveness and safety of Ryukakusan. Below are the recommended guidelines:

#### **Dosage and Frequency:**

- **Interval:** Ensure a gap of at least 2 hours between each dose to allow the medicine to take effect properly.

- **For Adults:** For those 15 years and older, Ryukakusan powder can be taken multiple times a day, with a daily limit of no more than 6 doses. Each dose typically consists of one packet of powder. Following this frequency can effectively relieve throat discomfort without overuse.

#### **Age Considerations:**

- **Children under 3:** Ryukakusan powder is not recommended for children under 3 years old, as their digestive systems are sensitive, and they may have difficulty swallowing the powder.

- **Children 3 and older:** For children over 3, it is important to follow the product’s instructions or consult a doctor to ensure safe usage.

---

### Active Ingredients and Their Benefits

Ryukakusan contains various active ingredients, each contributing to the relief of throat discomfort and other related symptoms. Here are the main ingredients and their functions:

#### **1. Platycodon (Balloon Flower Root):**

- **Function:** Platycodon has a strong ability to clear the lungs and expel phlegm. It is effective in treating coughs with phlegm, whether recent or chronic. It helps to eliminate phlegm and soothe throat irritation.

#### **2. Polygala:**

- **Function:** Polygala helps expel phlegm and calm the mind, especially useful for coughs caused by phlegm congestion. It aids in the smooth expulsion of phlegm and reduces coughing caused by difficult-to-clear phlegm.

#### **3. Licorice:**

- **Function:** Licorice is known for its ability to dissolve phlegm and moisturize the lungs. It helps alleviate dry throat and discomfort while also soothing coughs and reducing throat inflammation.

#### **4. Almond (Apricot Seed):**

- **Function:** Almonds are used primarily to stop coughing and relieve asthma. They help ease breathing difficulties caused by cold air or other factors and effectively reduce coughing and wheezing.

#### **5. Dragon Bone and Deer Antler Powder:**

- **Function:** Dragon bone and deer antler powder are added to some traditional formulations to enhance overall efficacy. Dragon bone calms the mind, while deer antler powder helps dissolve phlegm, dispel wind, and relieve cough. Together, they enhance the overall effectiveness of Ryukakusan.

These ingredients work in harmony to not only relieve throat discomfort but also improve respiratory health, making Ryukakusan a popular remedy.

---

### Precautions and Contraindications for Ryukakusan

To ensure safety and effectiveness when using Ryukakusan, the following precautions and contraindications should be observed:

#### **Contraindicated Groups:**

- **Infants under 3 months:** Ryukakusan may place a burden on the liver, potentially affecting the normal development of infants. Therefore, it is not recommended for use in infants under 3 months old.

- **Diabetics:** Since Ryukakusan contains sugar, it can affect blood sugar levels. Diabetics should use it cautiously and only under a doctor's guidance to avoid blood sugar fluctuations.

- **Pregnant Women:** Ryukakusan contains licorice and mint, which may carry trace toxins that are harmful to pregnant women and fetuses. Therefore, pregnant women should avoid using it.

- **Individuals with Liver or Kidney Impairment:** Ryukakusan may have adverse effects on the liver and kidneys, so those with impaired liver or kidney function should use it only under medical supervision.

#### **Usage Considerations:**

- **Children:** While Ryukakusan is safe for most, extra caution is advised for children under 3. It is best to consult a doctor to ensure safety and effectiveness.

- **Nursing Mothers:** Nursing mothers should use Ryukakusan with caution. While it may be safe in some cases, the ingredients may pass into breast milk and affect the baby. It is advisable to consult a doctor before use.

By following these guidelines, users can safely and effectively benefit from Ryukakusan. If any discomfort or concerns arise, it is recommended to seek advice from a healthcare professional.