Synopsis

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

Black pepper (Piper nigrum) has been traditionally used in various cultures, particularly in Ayurveda and traditional Chinese medicine, to help alleviate coughs, including spastic or dry coughs. The warming and stimulating properties of black pepper are believed to help loosen mucus, improve circulation, and clear respiratory passages. Ayurvedic remedies often combine black pepper with honey to soothe the throat and reduce cough frequency. Similarly, in traditional Chinese medicine, black pepper is considered to disperse cold and alleviate symptoms such as coughing and congestion.

From a scientific standpoint, there is limited direct clinical evidence supporting the efficacy of black pepper for treating cough, spastic or otherwise. Black pepper contains the active compound piperine, which has demonstrated some anti-inflammatory and bronchodilatory effects in preclinical studies. However, most available research focuses on piperine's general pharmacological actions rather than its specific benefits for cough. Some in vitro and animal studies suggest piperine may modulate airway inflammation, but these findings have not been robustly translated into clinical recommendations for cough relief.

Overall, the use of black pepper for cough is primarily justified by traditional use and anecdotal evidence rather than rigorous scientific validation. Its popularity in home remedies persists, but the strength of evidence supporting its effectiveness for cough remains modest (rated 2/5).

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