Centipeda minima, also known as "Small Sneezeweed," is a herb widely used in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). Its application for treating respiratory conditions, including symptoms that may resemble influenza—such as nasal congestion, runny nose, and cough—has a long history in herbal practice. In TCM, Centipeda minima (Eriocauli Flos) is believed to dispel wind, clear nasal passages, and reduce inflammation.

However, the use of Centipeda minima specifically for "influenza" is based primarily on traditional practice and symptom management rather than direct evidence for antiviral activity against influenza viruses. Some in vitro studies have documented anti-inflammatory and mild antimicrobial properties of Centipeda minima extracts, but robust clinical trials or high-quality scientific studies validating its efficacy against the influenza virus in humans are lacking. Most references to its use for influenza are extrapolated from its broader use for upper respiratory tract infections and related symptoms.

In summary, while Centipeda minima is traditionally used for respiratory symptoms that overlap with those caused by influenza, there is minimal scientific validation for its effectiveness specifically for influenza. The evidence is therefore rated as low (1/5), and its use is justified mainly by traditional rather than scientific grounds.