Evidence supporting the use of: Balsam pear
For the health condition: Colds (prevention)

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Synopsis

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

Balsam pear, also known as bitter melon (Momordica charantia), has a long history of use in traditional medicine systems, particularly in Asia, Africa, and the Caribbean. In these traditions, it is sometimes employed as a remedy for colds and respiratory ailments. Folk practitioners may recommend it as a preventive or supportive measure against colds, based on the belief that its bitter compounds can help "cool" the body or enhance immune function.

However, scientific evidence specifically supporting the use of balsam pear for the prevention or treatment of colds is limited. Most research on bitter melon has focused on its antidiabetic, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties, with very few studies directly examining its efficacy against the common cold (caused primarily by rhinoviruses). While some laboratory studies suggest that extracts from the plant may have general immunomodulatory or antiviral effects, there is not enough clinical data to substantiate its use in preventing or treating colds in humans. Therefore, the justification for its use in this context is primarily rooted in traditional practices rather than robust scientific validation.

More about Balsam pear
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arabinogalactan
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bamboo
basil
berry flavor
beta-pinene
Beta-Glucan
black cumin
black currant
black pepper
black tea
blackberry
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camu camu
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chamomile
chlorella
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citrus bioflavonoids
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citrus sinensis (proprietary)
clove
coconut milk
colostrum
turmeric
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elderberry
forsythia
garlic bulb
ginger
grape
greek mountain tea
onion
green tea
greens blend (proprietary)
Indian tinospora
honeysuckle
lactobacillus brevis
lemon
licorice root
lovage
marshmallow
moringa
mustard seed
nettle
spruce
orange
oregano
oregon grape
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phenolic compounds
pineapple
plantain
pollen
pomegranate
pumpkin
quercetin
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rose hips
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sage
schizonepeta
scrophularia root
sphaeranthus indicus
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zinc
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papaya
mugwort
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ferula assafoetida
pistacia integerrima gall
blackboard tree
peony
buckthorn
lemongrass
yerba santa
chrysanthemum
siler root
flowering quince
sweet flag
hyacinth bean
eucalyptus
menthol oil
aster root
goji berry
paw paw
Algae
indigo leaves
cayenne pepper
Aralia
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Agastache
Ardisia
Acacia
Allicin
Abrus
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Asam gelugor
Andrographis
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Allyl Sulfide
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Amor seco
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Atractylone
Black Seed
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Baikal Skullcap
Baphicacanthus cusia
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Products containing Balsam pear

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