Breathe Clear is DAO Labs' modern interpretation of the classic Chinese herbal formula Zhi Sou San, which translates to “Stop Cough Powder.” Rooted in traditional Chinese medicine’s understanding of lung function and balance, this time-honored blend is used to support respiratory health and overall wellness.

This formula is incredibly useful because it is grounded in a foundational Chinese medicine claim that the lungs are considered the “delicate organ.” As centuries of Chinese scholars have argued, the lungs are intimately connected to the air and environment around us. 

Our lungs help open through the nose and throat and are also intimately associated with the skin and its protective functions. Because of these unique properties, Chinese scholars have argued - and perhaps the recent pandemic has poignantly reminded us- that the lungs are especially vulnerable to airborne threats.

How Does Zhi Sou San Work?

Breathe Clear or Zhi Sou San protects the “delicate organ” through two actions. First, it restores the movement of Qi that animates the lungs. According to Chinese medicine theory, the breath should move both down (into the body) and out (into the air). When breathing feels out of balance or disrupted, according to TCM theory, the down and out movements of "Lung Qi" have been impaired.

Breathe Clear supports the flow of Lung Qi by using herbs that are mildly bitter and pungent. Bitterness produces a downward, draining action; pungency disperses and thrusts outward. Together, this combination is traditionally used to support the proper movement of Lung Qi—downward and outward—as described in Chinese medicine, helping to promote respiratory balance when that flow feels disrupted. 

Second, this formula is traditionally used to support the smooth flow of Qi, which is essential for maintaining balance in the respiratory system. When Qi is constrained, fluids may gather as phlegm, which can further affect the flow of Qi. This formula includes herbs historically used in Chinese medicine to help support balanced respiratory health and the management of phlegm.

Zhi Sou San for Delicate Lungs and Wind Reversal

Zhi Sou San is traditionally understood to “open the door,” allowing external influences—often referred to as “Wind” in Chinese medicine—to move out of the body. Because the Lungs are delicate, strong herbs may sometimes cause imbalance. With its gentle, aromatic ingredients, Breathe Clear is formulated to support the natural movement of Wind as it is believed to reverse course and exit the body, promoting respiratory harmony.

Whether you're facing a temporary seasonal discomfort or looking for ongoing respiratory support, Breathe Clear offers a gentle, herbal option rooted in traditional Chinese medicine.

A Two-Step Approach for Seasonal Wellness

It is also important to point out how this formula works together with its companion product, Bounce Back. We specifically designed Bounce Back to be used with Breathe Clear, as a two-step routine designed to support your body’s natural resilience during the colder months.

During the cold and flu season, Traditional Chinese Medicine scholars identify “Wind” and “Cold” as key external factors that affect the body's balance at the surface level. At this stage, Bounce Back is a formula traditionally used to support the body’s natural ability to maintain balance and wellness.

According to TCM, if external imbalances persist, they may shift inward and influence respiratory balance. With this shift, it is important to add Breathe Clear to your regimen. Together, Bounce Back and Breathe Clear can work together to promote seasonal wellness and support respiratory balance during recovery. When signs of imbalance at the Exterior level have resolved, but you're still experiencing occasional respiratory discomfort, we recommend continuing with Breathe Clear to support ongoing respiratory wellness as part of your seasonal routine.

Care Consideration: Just a reminder that the above information is not a substitute for medical care and is not a substitute for medical advice or recommendations from a healthcare provider.  This information is not intended to treat, mitigate, or cure any disease.  That said, we encourage you to connect with an Acupuncturist in your community to learn more about this and other Traditional Chinese Medicine options.  If you’ve got questions about Chinese herbal medicine or getting started with an Acupuncturist, feel free to connect with us at hello@mydaolabs.com.