Evidence supporting the use of: Boneset
For the health condition: Sore Throat

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Synopsis

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

Boneset (Eupatorium perfoliatum) has a long history of use in traditional herbal medicine, particularly among Native American tribes and 19th-century North American herbalists. It was commonly employed to address a variety of symptoms associated with colds, influenza, and fevers, including sore throat. The plant’s traditional use for sore throat is largely based on its reputation as a diaphoretic (promoting sweating), febrifuge (reducing fever), and general remedy for “breakbone fever” (dengue), where muscle aches and throat discomfort are common.

Contemporary herbalists sometimes continue to recommend boneset for upper respiratory tract infections, where sore throat is a symptom. The rationale is that its anti-inflammatory and immune-supportive properties, observed in some in vitro studies, may help relieve discomfort. However, there is little to no direct clinical or pharmacological evidence specifically validating boneset’s efficacy for sore throat. Most references to its use are historical or anecdotal, and modern clinical trials are lacking.

In summary, while boneset’s use for sore throat is well-documented in traditional medicine, there is minimal scientific evidence supporting its effectiveness for this specific condition. The evidence rating is low (1), reflecting the reliance on tradition rather than robust clinical validation.

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