Synopsis

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

Borneol is a bicyclic monoterpene that has been used traditionally in Chinese medicine for centuries. In the context of treating or supporting colds, borneol is commonly included in herbal formulations believed to "open the orifices," clear heat, and relieve symptoms associated with upper respiratory tract infections. Historical texts such as the Compendium of Materia Medica describe borneol's use in treating ailments related to the common cold, such as congestion and headaches, by promoting circulation and facilitating the delivery of other herbal ingredients to targeted areas. Despite its long-standing use in traditional medicine, scientific evidence supporting its direct antiviral effect against common cold viruses (such as rhinoviruses or coronaviruses) is limited. Some in vitro and animal studies suggest borneol possesses mild anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial activities, but these findings are not specific to cold viruses and do not robustly translate to clinical efficacy in humans. As a result, while borneol's use for colds is well-established in traditional contexts, rigorous clinical trials and modern pharmacological studies confirming its antiviral efficacy are lacking. Therefore, its use for this purpose is supported much more by tradition than by contemporary scientific validation.

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