Evidence supporting the use of: Cineole
For the health condition: Cough (spastic)

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Synopsis

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

Cineole for Spastic Cough: Evidence Synopsis

Cineole (also known as eucalyptol) is a monoterpene commonly found in eucalyptus oil and has a history of use in traditional medicine for respiratory ailments, including coughs. However, its use for spastic (irritative or non-productive) cough is increasingly supported by scientific evidence.

Several clinical studies and reviews have investigated cineole’s effects on airway inflammation, mucus clearance, and cough frequency. Notably, randomized controlled trials (RCTs) have shown that cineole can significantly reduce the frequency and severity of cough in patients with respiratory conditions such as bronchitis and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The proposed mechanisms include its anti-inflammatory action, mucolytic effect (reducing mucus viscosity), and mild bronchodilation. For example, a double-blind RCT published in "Respiratory Medicine" (2004) demonstrated that cineole reduced cough frequency and improved lung function in patients with acute bronchitis.

Systematic reviews and meta-analyses conclude that cineole is more effective than placebo for alleviating symptoms of respiratory tract diseases, including cough. However, most studies focus on chronic or productive coughs, and data specific to acute, spastic cough are more limited. Despite this, the anti-inflammatory and antitussive effects observed support its use in spastic cough as well.

In summary, cineole’s use in treating cough—particularly spastic cough—is primarily justified by scientific evidence, though the strength of evidence is moderate (rated 3/5), with a need for more targeted studies on acute, non-productive cough.

More about Cineole
More about Cough (spastic)

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