Synopsis

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

Oriental arborvitae (Platycladus orientalis, also known as Thuja orientalis) seeds, known as "Bai Zi Ren" in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), have a long history of medicinal use. In TCM, oriental arborvitae is most commonly valued as a sedative and tonic for calming the spirit, nourishing the heart, and moistening intestines, but it is sometimes used in multi-herb formulations for respiratory conditions, including asthma. The rationale stems from TCM theory, which attributes asthma to imbalances involving phlegm, lung Qi, and other energetic disturbances. Oriental arborvitae seed is believed to have a moistening effect and is occasionally included in formulas to address dry, irritable coughs or related symptoms, though it is not a primary herb for asthma in classical texts.

Scientific evidence for its use in asthma is weak. Few preclinical studies suggest anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory activities of extracts from Platycladus orientalis, but these studies are preliminary and not specific to asthma. There are no high-quality clinical studies directly supporting its efficacy in asthma treatment. Thus, its use for asthma is primarily based on traditional practice rather than modern scientific validation.

In summary, while oriental arborvitae has a traditional background in supporting respiratory health within the context of TCM, its evidence base for asthma is limited and does not meet modern medical standards for efficacy.

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