Evidence supporting the use of: Inula
For the health condition: Emphysema

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

Inula helenium (commonly known as elecampane) has a long history of use in traditional herbal medicine as a remedy for various respiratory conditions, including bronchitis, asthma, and emphysema. Its root contains compounds such as inulin, alantolactone, and isoalantolactone, which are believed to exert expectorant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory effects. In historical European and Chinese herbal practices, Inula preparations were used to soothe coughs, expel phlegm, and ease breathing difficulties associated with chronic lung conditions.

However, direct scientific evidence supporting the efficacy of Inula specifically for emphysema is limited. Most available studies have focused on its general anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties, with in vitro and animal research suggesting potential respiratory benefits. There are no high-quality clinical trials or systematic reviews directly evaluating Inula’s effects in humans with emphysema. As a result, its use for emphysema is justified primarily by traditional knowledge and anecdotal reports rather than robust clinical evidence. The rating of 2 reflects the presence of some supportive pharmacological data and extensive traditional use, but an absence of direct scientific validation for emphysema specifically.

More about Inula
More about Emphysema

Products containing Inula

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