This work was undertaken to observe therapeutic effect of Xiebai and Zengye (XBZY) decoction on post-infectious cough (PIC) in rats, as well as its effect on gut microbiota and the exploration of the intestinal microecological mechanisms of XBZY decoction in the treatment of PIC. Using a random number table, the rats that were successfully modelled were assigned to the PIC, XBZY group (14.8g/kg/d), and montelukast sodium treatment (MAS) group (1mg/kg/d). The cough sensitivity of rats and changes in fecal water content were assessed, and serum i...