Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 3

Fritillaria, known as "Chuan Bei Mu" or "Zhe Bei Mu" in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), has a long history of use for treating coughs, especially those associated with "dampness" and phlegm accumulation. The bulbs of various Fritillaria species are included in classical TCM formulas to "clear heat," "transform phlegm," and "moisten the lungs," which aligns with the TCM concept of addressing "damp" coughs—coughs characterized by copious or sticky sputum. Historical texts such as the Shen Nong Ben Cao Jing (Divine Farmer’s Materia Medica) and later pharmacopeias consistently mention Fritillaria for these indications. Modern pharmacological studies have identified bioactive compounds in Fritillaria, such as peimine and peiminine, which exhibit antitussive and expectorant effects in animal models. However, most evidence remains preclinical, with limited well-designed clinical trials in humans. The traditional use is therefore better established than scientific validation. In summary, the use of Fritillaria for "damp" cough is well grounded in traditional practice, and while some scientific support exists, it does not yet meet the standards of robust clinical evidence.

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