Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1

Water Pepper (Persicaria hydropiper, also known as Polygonum hydropiper) has a history of use in traditional herbal medicine, particularly in East Asia and Europe. In these traditions, Water Pepper was employed for a variety of ailments, including as a remedy for colds accompanied by fever. Traditional herbalists valued its pungent, acrid qualities and sometimes used it as a diaphoretic, meaning it was believed to promote sweating and thereby help "break" a fever. However, the supporting evidence for this use is limited to historical texts and ethnobotanical reports; there are no robust clinical trials or modern pharmacological studies specifically validating Water Pepper’s efficacy for treating colds or fevers. Its traditional use is thought to be based on its irritant and stimulating properties, which may have been interpreted as beneficial in clearing respiratory passages or encouraging sweating. Contemporary herbal medicine rarely includes Water Pepper for colds, likely due to its potential toxicity and irritant effects. In summary, while Water Pepper has a documented traditional use for fevers and colds, this use is not supported by modern scientific research, and its traditional application is not widespread or strongly substantiated.

More about Water Pepper
More about Colds (with fever)

Other ingredients used for Colds (with fever)

Other health conditions supported by Water Pepper

Products containing Water Pepper