Synopsis

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

Pyrrosia, a genus of ferns commonly used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), is traditionally employed to address respiratory issues such as congestion, cough, and phlegm. The most commonly used species is Pyrrosia lingua. In TCM, Pyrrosia (known as Shi Wei) is valued for its properties in clearing heat from the lungs, resolving phlegm, and facilitating the flow of lung qi, which may indirectly relieve congestion. Historical texts and TCM pharmacopeias document its use for "lung heat" and symptoms such as cough with sticky sputum and chest oppression—conditions that may correlate with what Western medicine describes as congestion.

However, there is a lack of robust modern clinical trials or pharmacological studies directly validating Pyrrosia’s efficacy for treating congestion. Some in vitro studies have explored the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of Pyrrosia extracts, but these findings do not directly confirm benefits for congestion relief in humans. Thus, while the use of Pyrrosia for congestion is well-documented in traditional practice and literature, scientific validation remains minimal, and the primary justification for its use is historical rather than evidence-based.

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Other ingredients used for Congestion

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