Synopsis

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

Fritillaria, particularly species such as Fritillaria cirrhosa and Fritillaria thunbergii, has a long history of use in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) for treating respiratory conditions and various forms of “phlegm-heat” syndromes, including those manifesting as swollen glands or nodules, which can be broadly categorized as adenitis (inflammation of the glands). In TCM, Fritillaria is often included in prescriptions to “clear heat” and “reduce swelling,” and its use for scrofula (tuberculous lymphadenitis) and similar glandular swellings is documented in classical texts such as the Compendium of Materia Medica. The bulbs are believed to have antitussive, expectorant, and anti-inflammatory properties according to traditional theory.

Modern pharmacological studies have identified various alkaloids in Fritillaria species that exhibit anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects in vitro and in animal models. However, direct clinical evidence specifically supporting its effectiveness for adenitis in humans is limited. Most available studies focus on its use for cough and other respiratory conditions rather than lymphadenitis per se. Thus, while the traditional application for swollen glands and inflammatory nodules provides a rationale for its use in adenitis, the evidence remains primarily historical and preclinical, with a lack of robust clinical trials addressing this specific indication.

More about fritillaria
More about Adenitis

Other ingredients used for Adenitis

Other health conditions supported by fritillaria

Products containing fritillaria

Nature's Sunshine Breathe Activator TCM (formerly Breathe E-Z)
Nature's Sunshine Chinese TCM Positive Pack