Xin Yi San: A Gentle Remedy for Nasal Congestion and Discomfort
Hongji Medical- Jan 31
- 4 min read
Updated: May 7
Xin Yi San, also known as Magnolia Flower Powder, is a classic Chinese medicine recipe designed to ease nasal problems like stuffiness, runny nose, and sinus pain. With a blend of herbs like magnolia flowers, angelica root, and mint, it clears congestion, soothes inflammation, and promotes easier breathing.
This time-tested formula is rooted in traditional Chinese medicine and is perfect for colds, allergies, or chronic nasal issues. In this guide, we’ll explore its ingredients, benefits, and how to pair it with a nourishing soup in a clear, easy-to-understand way.
What’s in Xin Yi San?
Xin Yi San combines a handful of herbs that work together to relieve nasal discomfort:
Magnolia Flowers: These fragrant buds clear nasal passages, reduce stuffiness, and ease runny noses with their natural volatile oils.
Xanthium Fruit: This herb fights inflammation, relieves congestion, and helps with sinus pain.
Angelica Root: Promotes blood flow, reduces headaches, and eases nasal blockages.
Mint Leaves: Cooling and refreshing, mint opens the airways and clears the head for easier breathing.
Each herb plays a role in tackling wind-cold (think chilly, stuffy nose from a cold) and soothing irritated nasal passages.
What Does It Do?
Xin Yi San is all about clearing nasal discomfort and restoring easy breathing. Its main benefits include:
Clearing Congestion: Magnolia, xanthium, and angelica fight off cold-related stuffiness and runny BEST nose.
Easing Pain: These herbs reduce sinus headaches and facial discomfort caused by inflammation.
Opening Airways: Mint refreshes and promotes clear nasal passages for better breathing.
Who Can Benefit?
Xin Yi San is perfect for anyone dealing with nasal troubles, including:
Colds: If a cold leaves you with a stuffy or runny nose, this formula helps clear it up fast.
Sinusitis: For sinus infections causing congestion, headaches, or pressure, Xin Yi San reduces inflammation and discomfort.
Allergic Rhinitis: Sneezing, runny nose, or stuffiness from allergies? This remedy soothes irritated nasal passages.
Chronic Rhinitis: Long-term nasal congestion, headaches, or runny nose can be eased with regular use.
Nasal Polyps or Excess Mucus: It helps reduce polyps (growths from chronic inflammation) and clears excessive nasal drip.
Symptoms like nasal congestion, sneezing, headaches, or loss of smell are all signs Xin Yi San might help. It’s especially useful when cold air or infections trigger your symptoms, making your nose feel blocked or runny.
How Does It Work?
In Chinese medicine, nasal issues often come from “wind-cold” invading the body, causing congestion and discomfort. Magnolia, xanthium, and angelica team up to push out this cold and clear blocked nasal passages, while mint adds a cooling touch to refresh and open the airways. Together, they reduce inflammation, ease pain, and help you breathe freely again.
How to Use It
Xin Yi San is typically prepared as a powder or decoction (herbal tea) by a Chinese medicine practitioner. The herbs are ground, mixed with water, and boiled to release their active compounds. Your doctor will adjust the dose based on your symptoms, but it’s usually taken daily until symptoms improve. Always consult a professional to ensure the formula is right for you.
Modern Uses
Xin Yi San remains a staple for nasal health, backed by its long history and modern applications. It’s commonly used for:
Acute Rhinitis: Clears viral infections causing stuffy noses or sneezing.
Chronic Rhinitis: Reduces ongoing congestion and discomfort.
Sinusitis: Eases sinus pain and pressure from bacterial infections.
Allergic Rhinitis: Calms allergy-driven nasal symptoms like sneezing or runny nose.
Its anti-inflammatory and decongestant properties make it effective for both short-term relief and long-term nasal health.
Try It as a Soup: Magnolia and Fig Soup
Pair Xin Yi San with this nourishing soup to support nasal health and boost vitality.
Ingredients
Magnolia flowers (10g)
Angelica root (10g)
Chinese yam (15g)
Codonopsis root (15g, for energy)
Dried figs (5 pieces)
Water (6 cups)
Instructions
Rinse all ingredients thoroughly.
Place them in a pot with 6 cups of water.
Bring to a boil, then simmer on low for 30–60 minutes until fragrant.
Add a pinch of salt to taste, if desired.
Sip the soup warm and enjoy the ingredients.
Tips
Drink 1–2 times a week alongside a balanced diet for best results.
Stop and consult a doctor if you notice discomfort or allergic reactions.
This soup boosts energy and complements Xin Yi San’s effects but isn’t a replacement for the herbal formula.
Who Should Avoid It?
Xin Yi San is generally safe but may not suit everyone. Avoid it if you:
Have a “hot” constitution (prone to dry mouth, thirst, or feeling overheated).
Experience nasal issues from heat or allergies with yellow mucus (this formula is better for clear or white mucus).
Are allergic to any of the herbs.
Always check with a healthcare provider, especially if you’re pregnant, have chronic conditions, or are on medications.
Final Thoughts
Xin Yi San is a gentle, effective remedy for nasal congestion, sinus pain, and other nose troubles. With herbs like magnolia flowers, angelica root, and mint, it clears blockages, reduces inflammation, and helps you breathe easier.
Whether you’re battling a cold, allergies, or chronic rhinitis, this traditional formula offers relief rooted in centuries of Chinese medicine. Pair it with a soothing soup like Magnolia and Fig for extra support, but always consult a doctor before starting. Rediscover clear airways and comfort with Xin Yi San!
