Evidence supporting the use of: Trichosanthis
For the health condition: Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disorder

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Trichosanthis, specifically the fruit or root of Trichosanthes kirilowii (commonly known as Chinese cucumber or “Tian Hua Fen”), has a long history of use in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for respiratory conditions. In TCM, it is believed to "clear heat," "transform phlegm," and "moisten the lungs," making it a component of herbal formulas used for chronic cough, sputum production, and other symptoms that can overlap with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). However, the historical use is based on traditional theory rather than targeted clinical understanding of COPD as defined in modern medicine.

Modern scientific evidence supporting the use of Trichosanthis for COPD is minimal and largely limited to preclinical studies. Some laboratory research suggests that extracts from Trichosanthes may have anti-inflammatory or expectorant properties, but robust clinical trials in humans with COPD are lacking. Systematic reviews and meta-analyses do not currently support its efficacy for COPD specifically. As such, its use for COPD is justified mainly by tradition, and the scientific evidence is weak (evidence level 2/5).

In summary, Trichosanthis is used for respiratory symptoms in traditional medicine systems, but there is insufficient high-quality clinical data to validate its effectiveness for COPD according to modern biomedical standards.

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Products containing Trichosanthis

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