Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Citrus fruits, such as lemons, oranges, and limes, have a long-standing history in traditional medicine systems—particularly in Ayurveda, Traditional Chinese Medicine, and various folk remedies—as supportive agents for coughs and respiratory ailments. These traditions often recommend citrus juices or infusions with honey to soothe sore throats, reduce cough severity, and provide symptomatic relief. The rationale is typically based on the high vitamin C content, which is believed to support immune function, as well as the presence of bioactive compounds like flavonoids that may have mild anti-inflammatory or antioxidant effects.

However, scientific validation specifically for citrus fruits as a treatment for cough is limited. While vitamin C has been studied for its role in immune function, systematic reviews indicate it does not significantly reduce the incidence of coughs or colds in the general population, though it may modestly shorten the duration of symptoms in some cases. Citrus extracts do possess mild antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties in vitro, but clinical studies directly evaluating their impact on cough are lacking. Thus, while the traditional use of mixed citrus for cough is well-documented, robust scientific evidence supporting its efficacy is limited, and its use remains primarily grounded in historical practice rather than modern clinical trials.

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