Synopsis

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

Anemarrhena asphodeloides, known as Zhi Mu in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), has a longstanding history of use in East Asian herbal medicine. Traditionally, it is used to "clear heat," "reduce fire," and "nourish yin." In the context of influenza and fevers, Zhi Mu is commonly incorporated in multi-herb formulas such as Bai Hu Tang and Zhi Mu Tang, intended to relieve symptoms such as high fever, sore throat, and thirst, which are thought to reflect "heat" or "fire" in TCM theory. The use of Anemarrhena asphodeloides for influenza is therefore primarily justified by tradition rather than scientific validation.

Modern pharmacological research has identified several compounds in Anemarrhena asphodeloides, such as mangiferin and saponins, which exhibit anti-inflammatory, antipyretic, and immunomodulatory effects in vitro and in animal models. While a few laboratory studies have explored its antiviral properties, direct evidence for efficacy against the influenza virus in humans is lacking. Clinical evidence supporting its use specifically for influenza is minimal; most modern clinical studies, if any, are preliminary and focus on its potential as part of multi-herb formulas rather than as a single agent. As such, the use of Anemarrhena asphodeloides for influenza is primarily supported by tradition, with only limited and indirect scientific support from pharmacological studies, rather than robust clinical trials.

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