Introduction to Medicinal Diet
Sang Bai Chuan Bei Xue Li Soup (Mulberry Root Bark, Fritillaria, and Snow Pear Soup) is a classic medicinal dish with a long history, possessing both clearing-moistening and phlegm-transforming effects. It is popularly known as “the premier soup for moistening the lung and stopping cough.” This soup primarily uses three core ingredients: Sang Baipi (root bark of Morus alba, mulberry root bark), Chuan Beimu (bulb of Fritillaria cirrhosa, tendrilleaf fritillary bulb), and Xue Li (snow pear). It is supplemented with rock sugar or honey for balance. The soup is clear in color, sweet and slightly cool in taste, especially suitable for consumption during dry autumn and winter seasons or in haze weather. Sang Baipi is derived from the root bark of the mulberry tree. Chuan Beimu is the bulb of Fritillaria cirrhosa, a plant in the Liliaceae family. Snow pear is a seasonal fruit that moistens dryness in autumn. The perfect combination of these three ingredients integrates the regulating power of Chinese medicinals into everyday diet.
From the perspective of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) dietetics, the Sang Bai Chuan Bei Xue Li Tang (Mulberry Root Bark, Sichuan Fritillary Bulb, and Snow Pear Decoction) is a representative formula combining “clearing and moistening” actions. It is neither cold nor drying, effectively clearing heat lodged in the Lung (Fei) while nourishing the yin of both the Lung and Stomach (Wei). Similar formulas have been recorded in classic medical texts throughout dynasties; for example, the *Compendium of Materia Medica* (Bencao Gangmu) includes a proven recipe using pear juice combined with Chuan Bei Mu (Fritillariae Cirrhosae Bulbus) to treat cough. In modern life, due to fast-paced lifestyles, high stress, air pollution, and spicy dietary habits, conditions such as Lung heat cough and throat discomfort have become increasingly common. This medicinal food is highly recommended for its accessible ingredients, simple preparation, and pleasant taste, making it a staple nourishing Lung soup on many family tables.
Efficacy of Medicinal Diet
The primary effect of the Sang Bai Chuan Bei Xue Li Tang (Cortex Mori, Fritillaria Bulb, and Snow Pear Decoction) is to clear the Lungs, transform Phlegm, relieve cough, and calm dyspnea. Cortex Mori (Morus alba, White Mulberry Root-bark) excels at draining Lung Heat and promoting water circulation, effectively clearing stagnant Heat pathogen in the Lungs and helping to expel sticky yellow phlegm. Fritillaria Bulb (Fritillaria cirrhosa, Sichuan Fritillary Bulb) is the essential herb for transforming Phlegm and relieving cough, especially adept at resolving Dry Phlegm and Heat Phlegm. Its alkaloid components can significantly relax bronchial smooth muscle and relieve spasmodic cough. Snow Pear (Pyrus pyrifolia) is rich in glycosides and tannic acid, which can moisten the throat, clear the Lungs, generate fluids, and relieve thirst. Synergistically, these three ingredients have a significant improving effect on patterns such as Wind-Heat cough with yellow sticky phlegm and sore throat with swelling.
In addition, this decoction also has the comprehensive effects of nourishing yin, moistening dryness, and caring for the throat. The pectin and moisture in Pyrus pyrifolia (snow pear) directly moisten the throat mucosa, relieving dryness, itching, and stinging sensations. The flavonoids in Morus alba (mulberry root bark) inhibit inflammatory responses and reduce congestion and edema of the respiratory mucosa. The saponins in Fritillaria cirrhosa (Sichuan fritillary bulb) promote the dilution and expulsion of phlegm. Modern nutritional research has confirmed that regular consumption of this decoction can enhance respiratory immunity, reduce the likelihood of prolonged post-cold cough, and is also highly beneficial for regulating chronic pharyngitis and early-stage bronchitis.
Functions of Traditional Chinese Medicine
In the theoretical system of Traditional Chinese Medicine, the mechanism of action of Sang Bai Chuan Bei Xue Li Tang (Morus Root Bark-Fritillaria-Snow Pear Decoction) primarily revolves around the viscus-bowel relationship between the Lung (Fei) and the Large Intestine (Da Chang), which are interior-exteriorly paired. Mori Cortex (Sang Bai Pi, Morus alba root bark) is sweet in flavor and cold in nature, specifically enters the Lung Meridian (LU), and excels at draining Lung heat while promoting urination. It is indicated for patterns of Lung heat with dyspneic cough and fluid retention in the Lung. According to the *Bencao Gangmu* (Compendium of Materia Medica), it “drains the Lung, facilitates the Large and Small Intestines, descends qi, and dissipates blood,” precisely targeting the pathogenesis of exuberant Lung heat congestion. Fritillariae Cirrhosae Bulbus (Chuan Bei Mu, Fritillaria cirrhosa bulb) is bitter-sweet in flavor and slightly cold in nature,归属于 the Lung and Heart Meridians (LU, HT). Its functions are to clear heat, transform phlegm, moisten the Lung, and stop cough. It is particularly effective for deficiency-consumption cough and dry cough with scant sputum, as it is moistening without being drying. When combined with Mori Cortex, one clears while the other moistens, complementing each other perfectly.
Snow pear (Pyrus pyrifolia), a medicinal and edible fruit with a sweet and slightly sour taste and cool nature, enters the Lung and Stomach meridians. It possesses unique value in engendering fluids, moistening dryness, clearing heat, and transforming phlegm. When combined, these three ingredients form a complete regulatory chain of “clearing lung heat—transforming phlegm turbidity—moistening lung yin.” From the perspective of ascending, descending, floating, and sinking, Morus alba root bark (Cortex Mori Radicis) primarily descends qi, Fritillaria cirrhosa bulb (Bulbus Fritillariae Cirrhosae) mainly dissipates masses, and snow pear functions to moisten. The overall formula incorporates both ascending and descending actions, as well as clearing and tonifying, thereby enabling lung qi to disperse and descend, regulating the water passages so that phlegm-heat has no place to stagnate. It is especially suitable for the pattern of “lung heat with fluid damage,” clinically presenting as dry cough with scant sputum or sticky sputum difficult to expectorate, dry and sore throat, nasal dryness, dry mouth, and scanty dark urine.
Indications
Morus and Fritillaria Snow Pear Decoction is best suited for long-term regulation in the following populations: First, those in the later stage of Wind-Heat common cold or the recovery stage of acute bronchitis, presenting with frequent coughing, thick yellow phlegm, red and swollen sore throat, accompanied by mild fever or thirst with a desire to drink. This decoction can clear residual pathogenic factors and repair damaged respiratory mucosa. Second, those who overuse their voice or have chronically fatigued throats, such as teachers, singers, live-streamers, and salespersons. Drinking a small bowl daily can effectively alleviate occupational throat discomfort, including vocal cord congestion and hoarseness.
The third group comprises individuals living in dry environments or those heavily exposed to smog and secondhand smoke, including the elderly and children in heated northern winter rooms, as well as office workers in urban centers. This soup’s yin-nourishing and dryness-moistening properties help clear fine particles adhering to the respiratory tract, reducing oxidative stress damage. Additionally, patients with chronic bronchitis or pulmonary emphysema in the stable phase may consume it in moderation alongside conventional treatment to consolidate therapeutic effects. For individuals with a dry-heat constitution experiencing recurrent oral ulcers or swollen, painful gums, this soup can also clear fire, moisten dryness, and improve the internal environment.
Contraindicated Populations
Despite the gentle nature of the Sang Bai Chuan Bei Xue Li Geng (Mulberry Root Bark, Sichuan Fritillaria, and Pear Soup), caution is still required for certain individuals who should not take it blindly. First, those with Spleen-Stomach Deficiency Cold (pi wei xu han) and loose stools (da bian tang xie) should avoid it. Both Sang Bai Pi (Morus alba root bark) and Xue Li (Pyrus pyrifolia, pear) are cold in nature, and Chuan Bei Mu (Fritillaria cirrhosa bulb) is also slightly cold; combined, they may further impair Spleen and Stomach yang qi, aggravating symptoms such as abdominal distension, diarrhea, and poor appetite. If such individuals truly need to take it, two slices of Sheng Jiang (Zingiber officinale, fresh ginger) or a small amount of Chen Pi (Citrus reticulata, tangerine peel) can be added to moderate its cold nature. Second, those in the early stage of Wind-Cold Cough (feng han ke sou), presenting with a heavy cough, thin white phlegm, nasal congestion with clear discharge, aversion to cold, and absence of sweating, should first use acrid-warm exterior-releasing (xin wen jie biao) methods. Mistakenly using cold medicinal foods would instead “lock the door on the intruder” (bi men liu kou), allowing the pathogenic factor to invade deeper.
Individuals with allergic constitutions should also exercise caution. *Fritillaria cirrhosa* (Chuan Bei Mu) is a plant-based medicinal material; a very small number of people may experience allergic reactions to it, such as skin rash, itching, or shortness of breath. If these occur, discontinue use immediately. Additionally, patients with diabetes should strictly control the amount of rock sugar or honey used during preparation, or choose sugar substitutes for seasoning, to avoid blood glucose fluctuations. Pregnant and breastfeeding women are advised to consume under the guidance of a physician. Although the three ingredients in this formula are all categorized as medicinal and edible substances, the constitution during pregnancy is unique, and dietary therapy should be applied based on individual pattern differentiation of deficiency-excess and cold-heat. For children under five years of age, the Spleen and Stomach functions are not yet fully developed. When first consuming, start with a small amount and observe their digestion and absorption status.
Ingredient Formula Ratio
The standard recipe for the classic Sang Bai Chuan Bei Xue Li Tang (Mulberry Root Bark, Sichuan Fritillary Bulb, and Snow Pear Decoction) is as follows: Mori Cortex (dried decoction pieces) 10 g, Fritillariae Cirrhosae Bulbus (powdered or whole) 5 g, fresh Snow Pear (Pyrus bretschneideri) 1 piece (approx. 200 g), rock sugar 15 g (or honey 10 ml), and water 800 ml. This is the daily dosage for one person; adjust proportionally if preparing for the whole family. For Mori Cortex, choose thick root bark with a white, powdery texture. For Fritillariae Cirrhosae Bulbus, the Songbei (loose bulb) or Qingbei (green bulb) varieties are preferred, characterized by a clean white surface, uniform granules, and a white, floury cross-section. For the Snow Pear, select one with thin skin, fine flesh, abundant juice, and a small core, such as the Hebei “Ya” pear, Shandong “Laiyang” pear, or Xinjiang “Korla” fragrant pear.
When adjusting the ingredient ratios, modifications can be made flexibly according to the individual’s constitution and symptoms: if there is severe cough with thick, yellow sputum, increase *Fritillariae Cirrhosae Bulbus* (Chuan Bei Mu, Sichuan Fritillary Bulb) to 8 g and *Mori Cortex* (Sang Bai Pi, Mulberry Root Bark) to 12 g to enhance the effect of clearing heat and transforming phlegm; if there is marked dryness and itching of the throat with hoarseness, additionally add *Ophiopogonis Radix* (Mai Dong, Dwarf Lilyturf Root) 6 g and *Scrophulariae Radix* (Xuan Shen, Figwort Root) 6 g to strengthen the action of nourishing yin and moistening the throat; if there is concomitant lung qi deficiency with shortness of breath and fatigue, combine *Pseudostellariae Radix* (Tai Zi Shen, Heterophylly Falsestarwort Root) 6 g and *Dioscoreae Rhizoma* (Shan Yao, Chinese Yam) 15 g to supplement qi and nourish the lung. It is worth noting that *Fritillariae Cirrhosae Bulbus* is relatively expensive; you may ask the pharmacy to grind it into a coarse powder and wrap it in a gauze bag during decoction, which facilitates the extraction of active constituents and prevents the herbal residue from mixing into the decoction and affecting the taste.
Cooking method
**Step 1: Prepare the ingredients.** Quickly rinse the **Sang Baipi (Morus alba root bark)** under clean water once to remove surface dust, then soak it in clean water for 15 minutes to fully soften. If **Chuan Beimu (Fritillaria cirrhosa bulb)** is whole, gently crush it into coarse granules using a mortar and pestle, or press it with the back of a knife – avoid grinding into a fine powder to prevent scorching during decoction. Peel the **snow pear**, remove the top and bottom, cut it lengthwise into four quarters, core it, then dice into pieces about 2 cm per side – the pieces should not be too large to allow full extraction of active constituents.
Step 2: Decoction. Place a clay pot or stainless steel pot on the stove, and pour the pre-soaked Mori Cortex (Sang Bai Pi) together with the soaking water into the pot. Add additional clean water to reach a total volume of 800 ml. Cover the pot, bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to low heat and simmer gently for 25 minutes. When the decoction turns a light yellow color and emits the characteristic fragrant aroma of mulberry root bark, strain out the herb residue using a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth, retaining only the clear liquid. Return the liquid to the rinsed pot, add the coarse granules of Fritillariae Cirrhosae Bulbus (Chuan Bei Mu) and the snow pear chunks, and bring to a boil again over high heat.
Step 3: Simmering and Seasoning. Once the soup comes to a boil, reduce to low heat and continue simmering for 20 minutes. At this point, the snow pear (Pyrus pyrifolia) chunks should become translucent and soft, with the active constituents of Chuanbei (Fritillaria cirrhosa, Sichuan fritillary bulb) fully infused into the broth. Finally, add rock sugar, stirring until completely dissolved, and cook for an additional 2 minutes before turning off the heat. If using honey for seasoning, wait until the soup has cooled below 60°C (140°F) before adding, to avoid high temperatures destroying the active enzymes in the honey. Ladle the prepared soup into a bowl, remove the Chuanbei residue (or extract the gauze bag if used), and drink while warm. The snow pear chunks can also be eaten together, offering a soft, smooth, and sweet texture.
Drinking Tips
First, the timing of consumption is important. It is recommended to take Sangbai Chuanbei Xueli Decoction (Mori Cortex, Fritillariae Cirrhosae Bulbus, and Snow Pear Decoction) warm, one to two hours after meals. At this time, the food in the stomach has been partially digested, so the decoction will not increase gastrointestinal burden and allows for full absorption of the active medicinal constituents. Avoid taking it on an empty stomach, as both Mori Cortex (Sangbaipi) and Fritillariae Cirrhosae Bulbus (Chuanbeimu) possess a certain cold nature, which may irritate the gastrointestinal tract when taken on an empty stomach. Take once daily, with a course of 3 to 5 consecutive days. Discontinue once symptoms improve. Do not take continuously for more than two weeks.
Second, after taking the decoction, one should avoid wind and keep warm. This formula primarily clears Lung Heat. After consumption, the pores and interstices (cou li) are relatively open. During this time, exposure to wind and cold should be avoided, especially refraining from immediately entering air-conditioned rooms or consuming raw and cold foods, so as to prevent Cold Pathogen from taking advantage of the deficiency and thereby inducing recurrent coughing. It is recommended to sit quietly and rest for 15 minutes after drinking. This can be combined with gentle tapping on the back (over the Feishu [BL13] acupoint area) to help loosen and expel phlegm.
Third, adjust the taste individually. If the slight bitterness of *Morus alba* root bark (Sangbaipi) in the decoction is too noticeable, add one honeyed jujube or a few *Lycium barbarum* fruits (goji berries) to cook together. This enhances the sweet flavor without affecting the overall efficacy of the medicinal diet. For children, the amount of rock sugar may be appropriately increased to 20 grams, or half a peeled and sectioned sugarcane stalk can be added to the soup to enhance the natural sweetness and improve acceptance. However, caution is needed: for infants under three years of age, the snow pear (*Pyrus pyrifolia*) pieces should be mashed into a puree, and ensure that the *Fritillaria cirrhosa* bulb (Chuanbeimu) residue is completely filtered out to prevent choking.