Synopsis

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

Luffa, also known as loofah or Luffa cylindrica, has a history of use in traditional medicine, particularly in Chinese herbal practices. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), luffa (often referred to as "sponge gourd" or "丝瓜" in Chinese) is used for its purported cooling and detoxifying properties. It has been included in herbal remedies aimed at treating colds, especially those accompanied by fever, headache, and phlegm. The traditional rationale suggests that luffa may help "clear heat" from the body and alleviate symptoms associated with upper respiratory tract infections.

However, scientific evidence supporting these uses is limited. While luffa contains various bioactive compounds such as saponins, flavonoids, and polysaccharides, there are no robust clinical trials or systematic reviews confirming its efficacy for colds with fever in humans. Some laboratory studies have noted mild anti-inflammatory or immunomodulatory effects, but these findings are preliminary and not directly linked to cold or fever treatment. Overall, its use for this condition is primarily justified by tradition rather than scientific validation.

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