Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1

Vietnamese sophora (Sophora flavescens), known in traditional medicine as "Khổ sâm," has a history of use in East Asian herbal medicine, particularly in Vietnam and China. Traditionally, it has been employed for a variety of ailments, including as a remedy for colds and respiratory complaints. The roots contain alkaloids and flavonoids thought to have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. However, while some traditional texts mention its application for symptoms such as sore throat, cough, or congestion, these uses are primarily based on empirical or anecdotal evidence rather than systematic scientific research.

There is limited scientific validation specifically supporting the use of Vietnamese sophora as a decongestant or for treating colds. Most of the available studies focus on its potential antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory effects in vitro or in animal models, but not directly on cold symptom relief in humans. As such, the evidence for its use as a decongestant remains weak and is largely rooted in traditional practice rather than clinical trials. Therefore, for this particular indication (supporting/treating colds as a decongestant), the justification is traditional, and the strength of evidence is low.

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