Evidence supporting the use of: Anamarrhena
For the health condition: Wheezing
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2
Anemarrhena asphodeloides (commonly referred to as "Anemarrhena" or "Zhimu" in Traditional Chinese Medicine, TCM) has a long history of use in East Asian herbal medicine. In TCM, it is primarily used to "clear heat" and "nourish yin," and is often included in formulations intended to treat respiratory symptoms such as wheezing, cough, and asthma-like conditions. The rationale comes from the TCM theory that wheezing can be caused by "lung heat" or "yin deficiency," and Anemarrhena is believed to address these imbalances.
However, while these traditional uses are well-documented in historical texts and pharmacopeias, modern scientific studies verifying efficacy specifically for wheezing are limited. A small number of preclinical studies suggest that extracts of Anemarrhena may have anti-inflammatory and antiasthmatic effects in animal models, possibly by modulating immune responses and reducing airway hyperresponsiveness. Nonetheless, robust clinical trials in humans are lacking.
In summary, the use of Anemarrhena for wheezing is based primarily on traditional medical practices rather than strong scientific evidence. The overall evidence level is low, with traditional use providing the main justification, and only preliminary scientific support from animal studies.