Evidence supporting the use of: Asarum heterotropoides
For the health condition: Colds (prevention)
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2
Asarum heterotropoides, commonly known as wild ginger or "xi xin" in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), has a long history of use for treating and preventing colds. In TCM, xi xin is classified as a "warming" herb and is commonly included in classic formulas such as Ma Huang Tang and Jiu Wei Qiang Huo Tang, which are prescribed to treat symptoms of the common cold and flu, particularly when associated with "wind-cold" invasion. The herb is believed to help expel cold, relieve pain, and open nasal passages.
Despite its strong traditional backing, there is limited modern scientific evidence specifically validating the efficacy of Asarum heterotropoides for cold prevention or treatment. Some pharmacological studies have identified volatile oils and compounds with potential anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial activity, which could theoretically be beneficial in respiratory infections. However, robust clinical trials in humans are lacking, and concerns exist regarding the toxicity of aristolochic acids present in some Asarum species.
In summary, the use of Asarum heterotropoides for colds is primarily justified by historical and traditional practice rather than by strong direct scientific validation. Its continued use is mostly based on the principles and empirical evidence of TCM rather than results from rigorous modern clinical studies.
More about Asarum heterotropoides
More about Colds (prevention)
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basil
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beta-pinene
beta-glucan
black cumin
black currant
black pepper
black tea
blackberry
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capsaicinoids
caterpillar mushroom
chamomile
chlorella
cinnamon
citrus bioflavonoids
citrus oil
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clove
coconut milk
colostrum
turmeric
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forsythia
garlic bulb
ginger
grape
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onion
green tea
greens blend (proprietary)
Indian tinospora
honeysuckle
Lactobacillus brevis
lemon
licorice root
lovage
Marshmallow
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mustard seed
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spruce
orange
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oregon grape
pear
phenolic compounds
pineapple
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siler root
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sweet flag
hyacinth bean
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goji berry
paw paw
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indigo leaves
cayenne pepper
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apple cider vinegar
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Allicin
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bee products
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borneol
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curry leaf
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capillary artemisia
citron
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capsaicin
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iridoids
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Other health conditions supported by Asarum heterotropoides
Abdominal PainAsthma
Bronchitis
Colds (decongestant)
Colds (general)
Colds (prevention)
Colds (with fever)
Congestion
Congestion (bronchial)
Congestion (lungs)
Congestion (sinus)
Cough (damp)
Cough (dry)
Cough (general)
Cough (spastic)
Fever
Headache (general)
Headache (sinus)
Headache (tension)
Indigestion
Infection
Infection (bacterial)
Infection (viral)
Inflammation
Nausea and Vomiting
Pain (general remedies for)
Rhinitis
Rhinitis, Allergic
Sinus Infection
Sore Throat
Ulcers
Wheezing