Evidence supporting the use of: Sweet Bay
For the health condition: Emphysema
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1
Sweet Bay (Laurus nobilis), also known as bay laurel, has a long history of use in traditional herbal medicine, particularly in Mediterranean cultures. Its leaves have been used in various forms—such as teas, poultices, and inhalations—to support respiratory health, including conditions characterized by cough, congestion, and difficulty breathing. This traditional use likely stems from the aromatic essential oils present in the leaves, which can have mild expectorant and soothing effects on the respiratory tract. However, there is little to no scientific research specifically examining the efficacy of Sweet Bay for emphysema, a chronic obstructive pulmonary disease marked by irreversible damage to lung tissue. Modern clinical studies supporting its use for emphysema are lacking, and no regulatory agencies endorse it for this purpose. Most evidence is anecdotal or based on broader traditional uses for respiratory discomfort. Therefore, while Sweet Bay's use for emphysema is justified by tradition, the quality of evidence is low and should not be considered a substitute for standard medical care.
Other ingredients used for Emphysema
astragalusbeta caryophyllene
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cordyceps
ginger
ginseng
horseradish
licorice root
n-acetyl-cysteine (NAC)
schizonepeta
slippery elm bark
mullein
lobelia
ferula assafoetida
inula racemosa
punarnava
myrrh
elecampane
morinda
trichosanthes
eucalyptus
aster root
horehound
Arisaema
Baikal Skullcap
Baphicacanthus cusia
Broussonetia
Balsam
Butea monosperma
Barleria
Centipeda
Costus
Euphorbia
Theophylline
Other health conditions supported by Sweet Bay
Abdominal PainAcid Indigestion
Arthritis
Asthma
Backache
Bites and Stings
Bronchitis
Bruises (healing)
Canker Sores
Colds (general)
Congestion (bronchial)
Cuts
Digestion (poor)
Dyspepsia
Edema
Emphysema
Fatigue
Fever
Gas and Bloating
Gastritis
Headache (general)
Headache (sinus)
Headache (tension)
Inflammation
Influenza
Insomnia
Itching
Laryngitis
Nausea and Vomiting
Pain (general remedies for)
Pleurisy
PMS (general)
Poison Ivy or Oak
Rashes and Hives
Rhinitis
Scars / Scar Tissue
Sinus Infection