Fritillary, particularly the bulbs of Fritillaria cirrhosa and related species, has a long history of use in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). In TCM, Fritillary (known as "Chuan Bei Mu") is primarily used to clear heat and moisten the lungs, but it is also included in formulas intended to support the Senses body system, especially for soothing throat discomfort and addressing hoarseness, coughs, and occasionally eye conditions associated with "heat" and dryness. The traditional rationale is based on its purported ability to resolve phlegm and alleviate symptoms related to the respiratory tract and sensory organs (such as the throat and, less commonly, the eyes and ears).

Scientific validation for Fritillary's effects on the Senses body system is limited. Most research focuses on its antitussive (cough-suppressing) and expectorant properties, with some studies indicating that certain alkaloids in Fritillaria bulbs have anti-inflammatory and soothing effects on mucous membranes. However, robust clinical trials specifically linking Fritillary to broad support of the Senses body system (e.g., vision, hearing, smell, or taste) are lacking. The evidence for its use in this context is therefore primarily traditional, with scientific studies providing only modest support for some related symptoms (mainly cough and throat irritation).