Platycodon grandiflorus, commonly known as balloon flower, has a long history of use in traditional East Asian medicine, particularly in Chinese and Korean herbal practices. The root, referred to as "Jie Geng" in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), is often used to support respiratory health, including the relief of coughs, sore throat, and congestion. In TCM, Platycodon is thought to "open up" the lungs and expel phlegm, which is conceptually linked to supporting clear sinuses and easing upper respiratory discomfort.

Several historical texts and modern herbal compendia document Platycodon's use for conditions involving the upper respiratory tract, such as sinusitis and bronchitis. The traditional rationale is that its expectorant and anti-inflammatory properties help to clear mucus and reduce swelling in the mucous membranes, thereby supporting sinus health.

Limited scientific studies suggest that compounds in Platycodon, such as saponins, may have anti-inflammatory and mucolytic effects, which could provide a plausible mechanism for its traditional uses. However, robust clinical trials specifically demonstrating its efficacy for sinus support in humans are lacking. Thus, while its use for sinus and respiratory support is well-established in traditional medicine and there is some preliminary scientific rationale, strong modern scientific validation is not yet available.