Argh, I’ve run out of my Pei Pa Koa Chinese cough syrup.
I used to take this when I had a cough or cold while growing up in Singapore.
One of the groceries across the border here in Canada was selling it the last time I was there.
It’s “a 400-year-old Chinese cough syrup [that’s been] winning over Westerners.”
The back of the box says:
“Herbal cough and throat syrup (with 13 natural herbs and honey).
Nin Jiom Pei Pak Koa (Herbal Formula) known popularly in Chinese as “PEI PA KOA” was originated by Non Jiom of Beijing in the Qing Dynasty.
It is made of a variety of precious natural herbs and honey, product preparation manufactured based on the theory of traditional Chinese medicine.”
I’ve seen quite a few short videos of people recommending this, including a few celebrities.
What I enjoy the most about the box (apart from the honey flavor and soothing effect of the actual syrupy contents) is the artwork behind the leaflet with information on the herbs.
Towards the left, there are a couple of dragon-adorned coiled pillars beside a temple with some mountains and clouds in the background.
It adds a very ceremonial and historical, cultural touch to the product design.
I hope they always keep this portion of the product’s packaging!
Quick history of it: The formula was reportedly created by Dr. Ip Tin-See, a Qing dynasty physician born in 1680. Yang Chin, a county commander, asked Doctor Ip to treat his mother’s persistent cough. They were so impressed that they created a factory to mass-produce it. (Source: Wikipedia)
The thirteen herbal ingredients include the fritillary bulb, fourleaf ladybell root, Indian bread, Chinese bellflower root, licorice root, and menthol in a syrup and honey base.
Other products in the series include a Vitamin C kids’ formula, no added sugar formula, and on-the-go convenient single packets.
Since my throat and lungs are a bit tired, here’s a super short video of my Pei Pa Koa box (music; no narration).