Alstonia scholaris, commonly known as the devil tree or blackboard tree, has been used in various traditional medicine systems, particularly Ayurveda and folk medicine in South and Southeast Asia, for the treatment of respiratory conditions, including cough, asthma, and sometimes influenza-like illnesses. Its bark and leaves are commonly included in herbal formulations intended to reduce fever, alleviate cough, and support recovery from respiratory infections.

The traditional use is primarily based on empirical knowledge passed down through generations. Ethnobotanical surveys report its inclusion in remedies for symptoms that overlap with influenza, such as fever, sore throat, and body aches. However, direct references to its use specifically for "influenza" as understood in modern virology are limited in the classical literature.

Scientifically, some preliminary in vitro and animal studies have shown that Alstonia scholaris extracts possess anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, and mild antiviral properties, but robust clinical evidence in the context of influenza (caused by influenza viruses) is lacking. No substantial human trials or direct evidence exists that specifically supports its efficacy for treating or preventing influenza. Thus, while the plant is traditionally used for respiratory ailments that may include influenza-like symptoms, the scientific validation for its use against influenza is limited.