Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 3

Fritillaria, particularly the bulbs of species such as Fritillaria cirrhosa (known as "Chuan Bei Mu") and Fritillaria thunbergii ("Zhe Bei Mu"), has a long history of use in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for alleviating cough and related respiratory symptoms. TCM texts dating back over a thousand years describe its application for moistening the lungs, clearing heat, and transforming phlegm, especially in cases of dry or persistent cough. The bulbs are often included in herbal decoctions and patent medicines for both acute and chronic coughs, sometimes combined with other herbs such as loquat leaf or licorice root.

Modern pharmacological studies provide some support for traditional uses. Research has identified alkaloids (such as peimine and peiminine) in Fritillaria species that exhibit antitussive (cough-suppressant), expectorant, and anti-inflammatory effects in animal models. Some small clinical studies and case reports have also suggested benefits for cough due to bronchitis or other respiratory tract infections. However, these studies are limited in scale and quality, and there is a lack of large, high-quality randomized controlled trials in humans to substantiate the efficacy conclusively.

In summary, the use of Fritillaria for cough is well-established in traditional practice and supported by some preclinical mechanisms and limited clinical evidence, justifying a moderate evidence score. It remains a popular ingredient in herbal cough remedies across East Asia.

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