Evidence supporting the use of: Cape gooseberry
For the health condition: Influenza

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

Cape gooseberry (Physalis peruviana) has a history of use in traditional medicine in various cultures, especially in South America, where it is native. Traditional healers have employed the fruit, leaves, and other plant parts for a range of ailments, including respiratory conditions such as colds and flu-like symptoms. The plant is thought to possess anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immune-boosting properties, which are believed to offer some relief from influenza symptoms.

However, while several in vitro and animal studies have identified bioactive compounds in Cape gooseberry such as withanolides and polyphenols with general antiviral and immunomodulatory activities, direct clinical evidence supporting its efficacy against influenza in humans is lacking. Most references to Cape gooseberry for influenza management are anecdotal or based on folk medicine traditions, rather than robust scientific research.

Small-scale laboratory studies may suggest potential for antiviral activity, but these findings have not been substantiated by large, well-controlled human clinical trials. Therefore, while the traditional use of Cape gooseberry for influenza exists and some preliminary scientific rationale is present, high-quality evidence supporting its effectiveness for this specific condition is limited.

More about Cape gooseberry
More about Influenza

Products containing Cape gooseberry

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