Evidence supporting the use of: Inula
For the health condition: Rhinitis, Allergic
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2
Inula, particularly Inula helenium (commonly known as elecampane), has a long history of use in traditional herbal medicine for respiratory conditions, including rhinitis and other forms of nasal congestion. Traditional systems such as Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and European herbalism have used Inula roots for their purported expectorant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-allergic properties. In the context of allergic rhinitis, Inula has been used to help alleviate symptoms like runny nose and sneezing, although these uses are largely based on empirical tradition rather than rigorous scientific study.
There is limited scientific research specifically evaluating Inula’s efficacy for allergic rhinitis. Most evidence is either anecdotal or derived from its general use in treating cough, bronchitis, and other upper respiratory tract complaints. Some laboratory studies have suggested that compounds in Inula, such as sesquiterpene lactones, may possess anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects. However, these findings have not been directly translated into clinical trials for allergic rhinitis in humans. Consequently, while Inula’s use for rhinitis is well established in herbal tradition, the scientific evidence supporting its effectiveness for this specific indication remains sparse.
Other ingredients used for Rhinitis, Allergic
alpha-pinenebenegut perilla (proprietary)
bifidobacterium bifidum
bifidobacterium lactis
bromelain
bupleurum falcatum
chamomile
lactobacillus casei
lactobacillus gasseri
lactobacillus paracasei
lactiplantibacillus plantarum
perilla
purple butterbur root
quercetin
vitamin C
malabar nut
inula racemosa
tylophora
Asarum heterotropoides
Arisaema
Asarum sieboldii
Bryonia
Baphicacanthus cusia
Butterbur
Bifidobacterium animalis
Belamcanda
Cineole
Ephedra
European Elder
Elder
Ivy
Other health conditions supported by Inula
Abdominal PainAcid Indigestion
Allergies (respiratory)
Appetite (deficient)
Asthma
Bronchitis
Colds (decongestant)
Colds (general)
Congestion (bronchial)
Congestion (lungs)
Cough (damp)
Cough (general)
Cough (spastic)
Digestion (poor)
Emphysema
Fatigue
Gastritis
Inflammation
Influenza
Laryngitis
Liver Detoxification
Rhinitis
Rhinitis, Allergic
Sinus Infection
Wheezing