Platycodon grandiflorus, commonly known as balloon flower, has a long history of use in East Asian traditional medicine, especially within Chinese, Korean, and Japanese systems. Its root, referred to as "jie geng" in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), is traditionally used to support respiratory health, particularly targeting the "lung" meridian. It is said to help "open up" the lungs, resolve phlegm, and soothe sore throats and coughs. The root is often included in herbal formulas for bronchitis, coughs with sputum, and other respiratory ailments.

While there are some modern pharmacological studies indicating anti-inflammatory and expectorant effects in animal and in vitro models, the robust clinical evidence in humans is limited. The traditional rating of 3 reflects strong historical and ethnobotanical usage, but with only preliminary scientific validation. Some compounds isolated from Platycodon, such as platycodin D, have shown potential for modulating immune responses and reducing airway inflammation, but most studies are preclinical. Thus, while Platycodon’s use for supporting the bronchial system is primarily justified by tradition, emerging scientific data provide a basis for future research.