Synopsis

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

Pluchea (commonly known as camphorweed or Indian camphorweed) has a history of traditional use in various cultures for the treatment of respiratory issues, including lung congestion. In traditional medicine systems, such as Ayurveda (where Pluchea lanceolata is used) and folk medicine among Native American groups (especially Pluchea odorata), the leaves and aerial parts are prepared as decoctions or infusions. These preparations have been employed to relieve symptoms related to colds, coughs, and chest congestion, often attributed to the plant’s expectorant and anti-inflammatory properties.

However, the scientific evidence supporting these uses is limited. Existing studies on Pluchea species have primarily focused on their anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antioxidant activities in vitro or in animal models. There is a lack of clinical trials or robust pharmacological investigations specifically evaluating the efficacy of Pluchea for lung congestion in humans. The traditional use may be rationalized by the presence of essential oils, sesquiterpene lactones, and other phytoconstituents that could theoretically support respiratory health, but this remains speculative without direct clinical validation. Overall, the use of Pluchea for lung congestion is best categorized as traditional, with a low (2 out of 5) evidence rating due to the absence of strong scientific confirmation.

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