Synopsis

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

Fragrant Angelica (Angelica dahurica), known as "Bai Zhi" in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), has a long history of use as a remedy for symptoms associated with colds, particularly nasal congestion and sinus headaches. Traditional texts and pharmacopoeias describe its use as a "wind-dispelling" herb, often included in formulas such as "Chuan Xiong Cha Tiao San" for treating headaches, nasal obstruction, and facial pain due to external wind-cold invasion. Its warming and acrid properties are thought to help open nasal passages and clear phlegm, which aligns with its use as a decongestant in the context of TCM theory.

Scientific validation for its efficacy as a decongestant remains limited. Some in vitro studies have found that extracts of Angelica dahurica contain coumarins and essential oils with anti-inflammatory and mild antimicrobial activity, which may offer some theoretical support for its traditional use. However, robust clinical trials in humans are lacking, and there is insufficient scientific evidence to conclusively verify its effectiveness for cold-related congestion. Thus, while its use is well-established in traditional practice, the evidence base from modern research remains weak.

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