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

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Synopsis

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

Tea, particularly herbal teas, has been traditionally used to alleviate coughs, including spastic (or dry, irritating) coughs across various cultures. The use of tea for cough is largely based on its soothing effect: warm liquids can help moisten the throat, reduce irritation, and promote comfort during coughing episodes. Common teas used for this purpose include chamomile, ginger, licorice root, and peppermint, each with their own traditional claims for antitussive (cough-suppressing) or soothing effects.

There is some limited scientific support for specific herbal teas—such as licorice root or thyme—due to their mild anti-inflammatory, demulcent, or antispasmodic properties. Green or black tea, which is more commonly referred to simply as "tea," does not have notable evidence for cough suppression, although the warmth and hydration may provide temporary symptomatic relief. Most studies on tea and cough are small, not well-controlled, or focus on specific herbs rather than generic tea.

Overall, while the use of tea to support the treatment of spastic cough is deeply rooted in tradition and may provide comfort, there is insufficient robust scientific evidence to recommend it as an effective antitussive. It is mainly valued for its soothing properties rather than any direct action on cough itself.

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