Synopsis

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

Zhejiang fritillary (Fritillaria thunbergii), known as "Zhe Bei Mu" in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), has been historically used to treat various respiratory ailments, including coughs and phlegm associated with influenza and other upper respiratory tract infections. Its use is grounded in TCM principles, which attribute to it properties of "clearing heat," "dissipating phlegm," and "relieving cough." There are classical TCM texts and centuries of usage supporting its role in herbal formulas for symptoms that often overlap with those of influenza, such as productive cough, sore throat, and fever.

However, while some modern in vitro and animal studies suggest that extracts of Fritillaria species may have anti-inflammatory and antitussive effects, robust clinical evidence specifically supporting its efficacy against influenza virus infection in humans is lacking. The majority of clinical studies are low in quality and often combine Fritillaria with other herbs, making it difficult to attribute effects to this single ingredient. Thus, its use for influenza is primarily justified by historical and traditional practice rather than modern scientific validation.

Overall, Zhejiang fritillary’s application in influenza is traditional, based on its reputed ability to alleviate symptoms rather than directly treat the viral infection itself. Caution should also be exercised, as some Fritillaria species can be toxic in large doses, and evidence for its safety and efficacy remains limited by the methodological weaknesses of available studies.

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