Tartarian aster (Aster tataricus)
Synopsis of tartarian aster
Tartarian aster (Aster tataricus), known in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) as Zi Wan (紫菀), is a hardy perennial herb native to East Asia, particularly China, Korea, and Japan. It belongs to the Asteraceae (daisy) family and is primarily valued for its thick, fleshy root, which is used medicinally. Tartarian aster is best known as a lung tonic and expectorant, traditionally employed to soothe coughs, expel phlegm, and relieve respiratory congestion.
The root contains active constituents such as triterpenoid saponins (shionone), flavonoids, polysaccharides, and essential oils, which contribute to its antitussive, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and mild sedative properties. It is often used in combination with other herbs like licorice root (Glycyrrhiza), aster leaf, or pinellia to enhance its moistening and expectorant effects.
Tartarian aster is particularly indicated for chronic or dry coughs, wheezing, bronchitis, and lung deficiency. It works by moistening the lungs, clearing mucus, and calming coughing fits—especially when due to internal dryness or deficiency-related conditions rather than acute infections.
Historical Use:
Tartarian aster has been used for centuries in Traditional Chinese Medicine, where it is classified as bitter, sweet, and slightly warm, and enters the lung meridian. It appears in numerous classical herbal formulas, especially for treating chronic cough, tuberculosis-like wasting disorders, and phlegm accumulation. A well-known TCM formula featuring Zi Wan is Er Chen Tang (Two-Cured Decoction), modified to support phlegm transformation and lung moisture.
In Chinese medical texts, Tartarian aster is often paired with Kuan Dong Hua (coltsfoot flower) as a traditional duo for soothing the throat, moistening dryness, and resolving lingering lung conditions.
Outside of China, Aster tataricus has been used in Korean traditional medicine as well, where it is similarly prescribed for bronchial issues, respiratory weakness, and coughs with yellow or thick sputum.
Modern Applications and Research:
Modern pharmacological studies support Tartarian aster’s traditional use. It has been shown to possess anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties, with some studies suggesting it may help inhibit airway inflammation and bacterial infections in respiratory tissue.
Although not commonly used in Western herbalism, it is gaining recognition in integrative practices that incorporate Eastern herbal frameworks—particularly for those seeking natural respiratory support without the drying effects of conventional expectorants.
Tartarian aster is used for these health conditions
Bruises (healing) (Traditional)
Cuts (Traditional)
Scratches and Abrasions (Traditional)
Wounds and Sores (Traditional)
tartarian aster is used to support these body systems
Blood (Traditional)
Bronchials (Traditional)
Immune System (Traditional)
Liver (Traditional)
Lungs (Traditional)
Respiratory System (Traditional)
Spleen (Traditional)
Products containing tartarian aster
Nature's Sunshine Chinese TCM Negative Pack
Nature's Sunshine Lung Support TCM
Nature's Sunshine Respiratory System (30 Day Program)
