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

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Synopsis

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

Elcampane (Inula helenium) has a long history of traditional use as an herbal remedy for coughs, particularly those characterized as "spastic" or irritating. In European and Asian herbal medicine, the root of elcampane has been used for centuries to ease respiratory complaints, including bronchitis, asthma, and persistent coughs. The main active constituent, inulin, along with sesquiterpene lactones such as alantolactone and isoalantolactone, are believed to contribute to its expectorant and antitussive effects.

Traditional texts and pharmacopeias often recommend elcampane for productive or irritating coughs due to its reputed ability to soothe the bronchial passages, reduce coughing spasms, and facilitate mucus expulsion. However, while there is substantial anecdotal and historical documentation for these uses, modern scientific validation is limited. Some in vitro and animal studies suggest mild antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory actions of elcampane extracts, but there is a lack of robust clinical trials in humans to confirm efficacy for spastic coughs specifically.

In summary, the use of elcampane for spastic cough is primarily justified by traditional herbal practice, with moderate support from preclinical studies, but evidence from high-quality clinical trials is lacking. Therefore, the evidence rating is moderate (3/5), reflecting strong traditional usage but limited modern scientific validation.

More about Elcampane
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Products containing Elcampane

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