Synopsis

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

Sesquiterpenes are a diverse class of naturally occurring compounds found in many plants, including those used in traditional medicines for the treatment of colds and viral infections. Their use to support or treat colds is primarily rooted in traditional herbal practices, particularly in systems like Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and Ayurvedic medicine, where plants containing sesquiterpenes (such as ginger, chamomile, and myrrh) are commonly employed for respiratory ailments. There is some preclinical evidence that certain sesquiterpenes may possess antiviral properties, as demonstrated in vitro against specific viruses. However, direct scientific evidence supporting the effectiveness of sesquiterpenes as antiviral agents for colds in humans is limited. Most studies are laboratory-based, showing potential mechanisms such as inhibition of viral replication or modulation of inflammatory responses, but these findings have not been consistently translated into clinical efficacy. Therefore, while the use of sesquiterpene-containing herbs for colds is well-established in traditional medicine, robust scientific validation remains lacking, and the current evidence supporting their use is rated as modest.

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