Synopsis

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

Goldthread, also known as Coptis (often Coptis chinensis), has a long history of use in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and other Asian healing systems. It is commonly used for its "heat-clearing" and antimicrobial properties, which, in traditional theory, may be applied to conditions featuring symptoms like fever, sore throat, or infection—sometimes including the early stages of colds. Its bitter compounds, notably berberine, have shown antimicrobial activity in laboratory studies, but there is little direct clinical evidence supporting its effectiveness for the prevention or treatment of the common cold in humans. The use of Goldthread for colds is generally based on traditional patterns of disease classification rather than Western scientific validation. Most modern research focuses on its effects on bacteria, inflammation, and metabolic disorders, rather than viral infections like the common cold. Therefore, while Goldthread may be recommended by some traditional practitioners for "wind-heat" or similar cold-like patterns, there is not strong scientific backing for its use in cold prevention or treatment.

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