Synopsis

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

Cowherb, also known as Vaccaria segetalis or Vaccaria hispanica, has been used in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) under the name Wang Bu Liu Xing. In TCM, cowherb seeds are considered to have properties that "promote the movement of qi and blood" and are sometimes included in herbal formulas aimed at addressing congestion-related symptoms, particularly when congestion is conceptualized as stagnation of blood or fluids in the body. This may relate to conditions such as chest congestion, breast distention, or poor lactation due to blocked milk ducts. However, the use for respiratory congestion (e.g., nasal or bronchial congestion) is less prominent in traditional literature, though some overlap in terms may occur in TCM theory. There is minimal scientific evidence supporting the use of cowherb for treating congestion of any type. Most available information comes from traditional texts and clinical experience rather than modern clinical trials. Some laboratory studies have identified saponins and other constituents in cowherb that may have anti-inflammatory or immunomodulatory effects, but direct evaluation for congestion (especially in the respiratory tract) in controlled human studies is lacking. Thus, the support for using cowherb for congestion is primarily traditional, with anecdotal and historical rather than robust scientific backing.

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