Evidence supporting the use of: Siler
For the health condition: Congestion
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2
Siler (also known as Fang Feng in Traditional Chinese Medicine, or Saposhnikovia divaricata) is primarily used in traditional medicine systems such as TCM for addressing symptoms related to congestion, particularly in the context of "wind-cold" invasion. Historically, Siler has been included in multi-herb formulas to help relieve symptoms such as nasal congestion, headaches, and body aches often associated with the common cold or upper respiratory tract infections. The theoretical basis for its use is rooted in its traditional attribution of "expelling wind" and "alleviating dampness," which corresponds to the idea of reducing congestion and promoting the free flow of qi (energy).
There is limited scientific research supporting Siler's effectiveness specifically for congestion by Western medical standards. Some laboratory studies have indicated anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects of Siler root extracts, but these findings have not been directly linked to clinical outcomes for nasal or chest congestion. Clinical trials specifically evaluating Siler for congestion are lacking; thus, its use for this condition is supported more by traditional use and anecdotal evidence than by rigorous scientific validation. Overall, while Siler remains a staple in TCM formulas targeting congestion, strong scientific evidence for this application is limited.
Other ingredients used for Congestion
allspicebasil
beta-pinene
betel
black currant
black pepper
chamomile
citrus oil
turmeric
echinacea purpurea
elderberry
garlic bulb
ginger
green tea
horseradish
licorice root
pomegranate
quercetin
rosemary
spearmint leaf
thyme
vitamin C
wasabia japonica
zinc
squawvine
hyssop
cardamom
atractylodes
mugwort
malabar nut
ferula assafoetida
anise
blackboard tree
lingusticum wallichii
buckthorn
lemongrass
yerba santa
coltsfoot
sweet flag
trichosanthes
birch
eucalyptus
menthol oil
Sichuan pepper
cayenne pepper
Alcohol
akebia
Agastache
Alpha-terpineol
Allicin
Asarum heterotropoides
Aconite
Asafoetida
Arisaema
Atractylone
Balsam
Bishop's Weed
Bayleaf
Barleria
Bitter Grass
berry
black salt
Bee products
Bombax
Buddha's Hand
Borneol
Camellia sinensis
Clerodendrum trichotomum
Citrus
Cineole
Cajuput
Chinese Raisintree
Cowherb
European Elder
Echinacea
Elder
Mallow
Vervain
Other health conditions supported by Siler
Abdominal PainAfterbirth Pain
Appetite (deficient)
Arthritis
Asthma
Backache
Belching
Bruises (healing)
Chills
Colds (general)
Congestion
Congestion (bronchial)
Congestion (lungs)
Convalescence
Debility
Dermatitis
Diarrhea
Digestion (poor)
Dizziness
Energy (lack of)
Fever
Gas and Bloating
Gastritis
Glands (swollen lymph)
Hangover