Sterculiae (pang da hai) is used for sore throats, tonsillitis, and more

Sterculiae (pang da hai) is a seed used for sore throats, tonsillitis, hoarseness, and cough. Pictured right is what it looks like in the dried form.

Boil a pot of water, then steep two or three seeds for 10-15 minutes in a cup of hot water. The seed softens and swells into a large gelatinous mass which you see top right. Then drink the tea every four hours. The tea has a mild flavor, so it's perfect for children. The seeds will expand 2-3 times their original size when steeped. Sterculiae is also used for constipation.

Chinese Pears for Cough

If you have ever read about using Chinese pears and sugar for coughs but don't know how to prepare it you've come to the right place.
First you need Chinese pears which you may find at a Chinese market or perhaps at your local grocer.
1). Imagine that you are going to make a little hat for the pear and cut the top off about 1/2 - 3/4 inch below the stem.
2). Remove the seeds by hollowing out the pear.
3). Fill with honey.
4). Put the top of the pear back on.
5). Put the pear in a bowl and fill about halfway up with water.
6). You will cook the pear in a double boiler, so put the bowl in another pan of water and heat the outer pan.
7). Turn the heat on low so that the water outside the bowl is warm and steamy.
8). Put a lid on it and cook for 60-90 minutes
9). Eat the pear.