Evidence supporting the use of: Thyme
For the health condition: Cough (damp)

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Thyme (Thymus vulgaris) has a long history of use in traditional medicine, particularly for respiratory ailments including coughs. Historically, it has been used in various cultures to help relieve coughs, bronchitis, and other symptoms of respiratory tract infections. In terms of scientific validation, several studies have investigated thyme’s effects on coughs, particularly those characterized as “damp” or productive coughs (with phlegm/mucus).

Thyme contains active compounds such as thymol and carvacrol, which have demonstrated antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antispasmodic properties. A notable double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial found that a combination of thyme and primula root significantly reduced the frequency and duration of coughs associated with acute bronchitis compared to placebo. Other in vitro and in vivo studies support thyme’s expectorant activity, suggesting it may help loosen and expel mucus from the respiratory tract, which is particularly relevant to “damp” coughs.

While most evidence comes from herbal combinations rather than thyme alone, and methodological quality varies, the overall available data provides moderate scientific support (rated 3/5) for the use of thyme in managing productive or damp coughs. The evidence base is not as robust as for some pharmaceutical agents, but thyme’s traditional use is increasingly supported by contemporary research, making it a reasonable adjunctive or supportive option for this condition.

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