Evidence supporting the use of: Juniper berries
For the health condition: Congestion (lungs)

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Synopsis

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

Juniper berries have been used traditionally in various cultures as a remedy for respiratory issues, including lung congestion. Historical accounts and folk medicine practices, particularly in European herbalism, describe the use of juniper berries in teas, tinctures, and inhalations to help clear mucus and ease breathing. The primary rationale is that juniper berries possess volatile oils (such as alpha-pinene and myrcene) with expectorant and mild antiseptic properties, which were believed to help loosen phlegm and combat minor respiratory infections.

However, scientific studies specifically investigating juniper berries for lung congestion are limited. Most modern research on juniper focuses on its antimicrobial, diuretic, and antioxidant effects rather than direct effects on respiratory congestion. As such, while there is a well-established tradition of using juniper berries for this purpose, the evidence base is largely anecdotal rather than clinical. The rating reflects the presence of historical use (hence a 2), but the lack of robust scientific validation prevents a higher score. Caution is also advised, as juniper berries can be irritating to the kidneys and should be used sparingly, especially in sensitive individuals or those with pre-existing conditions.

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Other ingredients used for Congestion (lungs)

Abies spectabilis
Aconite
Adenophora
Agastache
Alantolactone
Allicin
Allium tuberosum
Allspice
Allyl isothiocyanate
Aloe vera
alpha-pinene
alpinia galangal
ambergris
Amor seco
andrographolide
Angelica
anise
Ardisia
Arisaema
asafoetida
Asarum heterotropoides
Asarum sieboldii
aster root
atractylodes
atractylone
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balloon flower
balsam
Baphicacanthus cusia
Barleria
basil
bayleaf
bee hive
bee products
Belamcanda
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beta-pinene
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blackboard tree
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Buddha\'s hand
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bасора
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calamus
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capsaicinoids
capsicum
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Carthamus
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Chondrus
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cineole
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fat liver oil
ferula assafoetida
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inula racemosa
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Khella
labrador tea
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lemongrass
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