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

Links: Go back one page, Tool main page, Ingredients list, Health conditions list, Body systems list

Synopsis

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

Terminalia species, particularly Terminalia chebula and Terminalia bellirica, have a long history of use in traditional medicine systems such as Ayurveda and Unani for the management of respiratory conditions, including coughs—sometimes described as "spastic" or dry, irritating coughs. These fruits are often used in formulations like Triphala or given as decoctions and powders. The rationale in traditional systems often centers around their purported demulcent, expectorant, and anti-inflammatory properties, which are believed to soothe irritated airways and reduce cough frequency.

However, the scientific validation for these uses is limited. Some in vitro and animal studies suggest that extracts of Terminalia chebula may have antitussive (cough-suppressing) and anti-inflammatory effects, potentially due to tannins, flavonoids, and other phytochemicals, but robust clinical trials in humans are lacking. Therefore, while the traditional use is well-documented, the overall evidence rating remains low to moderate (2/5), reflecting the gap between traditional knowledge and modern clinical confirmation.

In summary, the use of unspecified Terminalia for spastic cough is primarily supported by traditional medicine systems, with some preliminary scientific findings but insufficient clinical evidence to fully validate these traditional claims.

More about Terminalia (unspecified)
More about Cough (spastic)

Products containing Terminalia (unspecified)

We currently have no products on Vitabase that contain this ingredient.