Evidence supporting the use of: Masson Pine
For the health condition: Colds (decongestant)
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2
Masson pine (Pinus massoniana) has a history of use in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and folk remedies, particularly for respiratory complaints such as colds, coughs, and congestion. The resin, needles, and essential oils derived from Masson pine contain volatile compounds (such as alpha-pinene and beta-pinene) known for their aromatic and potentially expectorant properties. In TCM, preparations from pine are sometimes used to "dispel wind and dampness," and as mild decongestants, relying on centuries of anecdotal evidence and clinical experience rather than controlled trials.
However, scientific validation is limited. While some studies on pine oils in general (not specifically Masson pine) suggest mild antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects, robust clinical trials in humans are lacking. Most evidence supporting Masson pine’s decongestant use comes from its traditional application and the known properties of pine volatiles in easing breathing through inhalation (similar to eucalyptus or menthol). Overall, while there is a clear traditional basis for its use as a decongestant in colds, the level of modern scientific evidence remains low.
Other ingredients used for Colds (decongestant)
allspicewaterhyssop
basil
beta-pinene
black cumin
black currant
black pepper
radish
capsaicinoids
chen pi
citrus oil
clove
turmeric
echinacea purpurea
elderberry
forsythia
garlic bulb
ginger
greek mountain tea
green tea
horseradish
honeysuckle
lemon
licorice root
mint
mustard seed
oregano
peppermint oil
pineapple
pomegranate
quercetin
rhizome
rosemary
schizonepeta
spearmint leaf
thyme
vitamin C
wasabia japonica
water
zinc
hyssop
cardamom
atractylodes
capsicum
mugwort
alpinia galangal
ferula assafoetida
boxthorne
lemongrass
yerba santa
chrysanthemum
sweet flag
eucalyptus
menthol oil
abies spectabilis
horehound
Sichuan pepper
indigo leaves
cayenne pepper
Alcohol
Agastache
Alpha-terpineol
Asarum heterotropoides
Andrographis
Asteracea
allyl isothiocyanate
Allium tuberosum
Arani
Atractylone
Baphicacanthus cusia
Balsam
Bishop's Weed
Black galingale
Bitter Grass
berry
Bee products
Buddha's Hand
Borneol
Coconut
Clerodendrum trichotomum
Capillary Artemisia
Citron
Citrus
Cineole
Capsaicin
Cajuput
Cinnamaldehyde
Costus
Dragonhead
Ephedra
English Horsemint
Echinacea
Elder
Essential Oil Blend
Ephedrine
Mustard
salt
Sandalwood
Sweet Orange alcohol
Other health conditions supported by Masson Pine
BronchitisColds (antiviral)
Colds (decongestant)
Colds (general)
Colds (prevention)
Colds (with fever)
Congestion (bronchial)
Congestion (lungs)
Congestion (sinus)
Cuts
Inflammation
Insomnia