Evidence supporting the use of: Aster root
For the health condition: Emphysema
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1
Aster root (Aster tataricus), known as "Zi Wan" in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), has a long-standing history of use for respiratory conditions, including chronic cough, bronchitis, and symptoms that may overlap with those of emphysema. In TCM, aster root is considered to have properties that help clear phlegm, relieve cough, and support lung function. Its inclusion in herbal formulas for chronic lung disease is based on centuries of empirical use rather than modern clinical research. While aster root is commonly part of multi-herb prescriptions for chronic cough and other respiratory ailments, there is very limited scientific evidence directly supporting its efficacy for emphysema specifically. Pharmacological studies have identified some anti-inflammatory and expectorant effects in animal and in vitro models, but these findings are preliminary and not directly linked to emphysema treatment outcomes in humans. No high-quality clinical trials exist that confirm its benefit for emphysema patients. Thus, while its use is justified by traditional practice, particularly within the TCM framework, it cannot currently be considered scientifically validated for emphysema. Its safety profile also requires more robust study, especially with long-term use or in combination with other medications.
Other ingredients used for Emphysema
Arisaemaaster root
astragalus
Baikal Skullcap
balsam
Baphicacanthus cusia
Barleria
beta caryophyllene
Broussonetia
Butea monosperma
Centipeda
Chinese salvia root
cordyceps
costus
elecampane
eucalyptus
Euphorbia
fernbush
ferula assafoetida
giant blazingstar
ginger
ginseng
Globulins
horehound
horseradish
Indian coraltree
inula racemosa
labrador tea
licorice root
lobelia
Malva sylvestris
Milkweed
Morinda
Mullein
Myrrh
N-acetyl-cysteine (NAC)
Pluchea
punarnava
Pyrola
schizonepeta
Slippery Elm
slippery elm bark
Sweet Bay
Theophylline
Trichosanthes
Other health conditions supported by aster root
Abdominal PainAcid Indigestion
Allergies (respiratory)
Anemia
Appetite (deficient)
Asthma
Backache
Bronchitis
Bruises (healing)
Burns and Scalds
Cancer (natural therapy for)
Cancer (prevention)
Cancer Treatment (reducing side effects)
Canker Sores
Cold Sores
Colds (general)
Colds (prevention)
Colds (with fever)
Congestion (bronchial)
Congestion (lungs)
Constipation (adults)
Cuts
Diabetes
Diarrhea
Digestion (poor)
Dizziness
Eczema
Emphysema
Fatigue
Fever
Gastritis
Gingivitis
Hair Care (general)
Headache (general)
Headache (sinus)
Headache (tension)
Heart (weakness)
Hemorrhoids
Hepatitis
Inflammation
Insomnia
Pain (general remedies for)
Wounds and Sores
