Evidence supporting the use of: Guaco
For the health condition: Cough (general)
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2
Guaco, primarily referring to the leaves and stems of Mikania glomerata or Mikania guaco, has a long history of use in South American traditional medicine for the treatment of respiratory ailments, including cough. Folk medicine practices in Brazil and other regions have employed guaco as a bronchodilator and expectorant, often preparing it as teas or syrups. The use is largely based on tradition and anecdotal reports rather than robust clinical trials.
Some preclinical studies have identified the presence of compounds such as coumarin and diterpenes in guaco, which may explain its mild bronchodilatory and anti-inflammatory properties in laboratory animals. However, high-quality randomized controlled trials in humans are lacking. The available scientific literature is limited to animal studies and small-scale pharmacological investigations, which suggest potential but not definitive efficacy.
Despite its traditional popularity, the scientific evidence supporting guaco's effectiveness for cough in humans is weak and insufficient for strong recommendation. Most authorities consider its use as adjunctive at best, and it should not replace evidence-based treatments for cough or respiratory diseases. In summary, the justification for guaco's use in treating cough is rooted in traditional practice, with only limited and preliminary scientific support.
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