Evidence supporting the use of: Allium (unspecified)
For the health condition: Colds (decongestant)

Links: Go back one page, Tool main page, Ingredients list, Health conditions list, Body systems list

Synopsis

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

Allium species, particularly garlic (Allium sativum) and onion (Allium cepa), have a long history of traditional use to support respiratory health and alleviate symptoms of colds, often attributed to their perceived decongestant and antimicrobial properties. In many cultures, Allium preparations—such as raw garlic, onion syrups, or teas—are used as home remedies to relieve nasal congestion and respiratory discomfort associated with colds. The rationale is primarily based on the pungent sulfur-containing compounds (like allicin) released when Allium bulbs are crushed, which are believed to have mild expectorant and antimicrobial effects.

However, scientific evidence supporting the use of Allium (unspecified) specifically as a decongestant for colds is limited. Some laboratory and small clinical studies have explored the antimicrobial and immune-modulating effects of garlic and onions, and there is modest evidence suggesting garlic supplementation may modestly reduce the incidence or duration of common colds. Nonetheless, robust clinical evidence demonstrating a significant decongestant effect is lacking, and most studies do not directly evaluate nasal congestion as an endpoint. Thus, while the traditional use is well-established, scientific validation for Allium as a decongestant in the treatment of colds remains weak.

More about Allium (unspecified)
More about Colds (decongestant)

Products containing Allium (unspecified)

We currently have no products on Vitabase that contain this ingredient.