Evidence supporting the use of: Pungent compounds (unspecified)
For the health condition: Colds (with fever)

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Synopsis

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

Pungent compounds—such as those found in garlic, ginger, mustard, horseradish, and chili peppers—have a long history of use in traditional medicine systems for the treatment of colds, especially those accompanied by fever. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and Ayurveda, pungent herbs and spices are believed to "disperse wind-cold" and help open nasal passages, induce sweating, and promote the resolution of fevers. Folk remedies across many cultures recommend hot and spicy foods to "clear out" congestion and provide symptomatic relief.

From a scientific perspective, there is limited but plausible evidence for certain pungent compounds. For example, allicin in garlic and gingerols in ginger have demonstrated antimicrobial and mild anti-inflammatory effects in vitro, and capsaicin from chili peppers can temporarily relieve nasal congestion by stimulating mucus secretion. However, robust clinical trials supporting their effectiveness specifically for treating colds with fever are lacking. Most evidence is anecdotal or based on small, low-quality studies. Thus, while their use is deeply rooted in tradition and offers some symptomatic relief, scientific validation remains limited, justifying a rating of 2 out of 5 for evidence strength.

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