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

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Synopsis

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

Scots Pine (Pinus sylvestris) has a long history of traditional use in treating respiratory conditions, including coughs, particularly spastic (or spasmodic) coughs. The needles, shoots, and essential oil of Scots Pine have been used in folk medicine across Europe for their expectorant and mild antiseptic properties. Inhalation of vapors from pine preparations and oral use of pine needle infusions have been customary remedies for soothing irritated airways and reducing cough frequency. Pharmacopoeias such as the German Commission E recognize pine needle preparations for supportive treatment in catarrhal diseases of the respiratory tract.

However, scientific validation of Scots Pine's effectiveness for spastic cough is limited. Some in vitro and animal studies have shown that compounds in pine (notably essential oils containing α-pinene and limonene) possess mild anti-inflammatory, mucolytic, and antimicrobial actions, which could theoretically ease cough symptoms. Yet, robust clinical trials in humans are lacking, and most evidence remains anecdotal or based on traditional use. Therefore, while the traditional use is well-documented, the scientific evidence supporting its efficacy for spastic cough is modest, justifying a rating of 2 out of 5 for evidence strength.

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