Synopsis

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

Coptis chinensis (Chinese goldthread, Huang Lian) has a long history of use in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). While its most common traditional indications involve clearing heat, drying dampness, and addressing gastrointestinal or infectious disorders, there are historical references to its use in formulas aimed at treating "phlegm-heat" syndromes, which can include bronchial congestion. In TCM theory, bronchial congestion is often associated with phlegm and heat obstructing the lungs, and Coptis chinensis, with its bitter and cold properties, is traditionally used to clear this heat and help resolve phlegm. However, it is typically not used alone for this indication, but rather as part of multi-herb combinations.

There is limited direct scientific evidence supporting the use of Coptis chinensis specifically for bronchial congestion. Some pharmacological studies have shown that its main active constituent, berberine, has anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and potential mucolytic effects, which could theoretically contribute to relieving bronchial congestion. However, these effects have not been robustly validated in clinical studies for this particular condition. Therefore, while the traditional use in multi-herb formulas exists and some pharmacological rationale can be postulated, scientific validation remains weak for this specific purpose. The evidence is primarily historical with a modest mechanistic basis, corresponding to a rating of 2 out of 5.

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More about Congestion (bronchial)

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