Inula racemosa, commonly known as Pushkarmool in Ayurveda, has a long history of use in traditional medicine systems, particularly in South Asia, for the treatment of respiratory ailments such as dry cough, asthma, and bronchitis. The root of Inula racemosa is documented in classical Ayurvedic texts as an expectorant and bronchodilator. It is often included in polyherbal formulations targeting cough and other upper respiratory tract conditions. Its efficacy is attributed to active compounds like sesquiterpene lactones (e.g., alantolactone) and essential oils, believed to have anti-inflammatory and mild expectorant properties.

While traditional use is well-established, modern scientific validation remains limited. Some preclinical studies have demonstrated that Inula racemosa extracts can reduce airway inflammation and relax bronchial smooth muscle in animal models, which could help alleviate cough. However, there is a lack of large-scale, high-quality clinical trials in humans that specifically confirm its safety and efficacy for dry cough. The available studies are mostly in vitro or involve animal models, providing some support but not definitive clinical evidence. Thus, the use of Inula racemosa for dry cough is primarily justified by traditional use, with moderate but not robust scientific backing.