Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1

Liverworts (Marchantiophyta), particularly species such as Marchantia polymorpha, have been used in traditional medicine for a variety of ailments, including respiratory issues such as colds. Historical records, especially from European and Asian folk practices, indicate that liverwort infusions or extracts were sometimes used to alleviate symptoms of coughs and respiratory tract infections. This traditional use is likely rooted in the doctrine of signatures, where the plant’s liver-like appearance was thought to indicate usefulness for ailments affecting the liver or, by extension, general health and immunity.

However, scientific evidence to support the antiviral efficacy of liverworts against cold viruses (such as rhinoviruses or coronaviruses) is very limited. Some in vitro studies have demonstrated that liverworts contain unique bioactive compounds, such as marchantin A and other bisbibenzyls, with potential antiviral properties. Most of these studies, however, have focused on viruses like herpes simplex virus (HSV) or HIV, not the common cold viruses. There are currently no clinical trials or robust in vivo studies confirming the effectiveness of liverworts in the treatment or prevention of colds in humans.

In summary, the use of liverwort for colds is primarily justified by tradition, with only minimal scientific exploration of its antiviral properties and no direct evidence for efficacy against cold viruses.

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