The use of pear (Pyrus spp.) to support or treat cough, especially cough associated with "dampness," is rooted primarily in traditional medicine, particularly within Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). In TCM, pears are considered to have cooling, moistening, and lung-nourishing properties. They are traditionally recommended for dry or phlegmy coughs, sore throat, and hoarseness, especially when these symptoms are thought to be caused by "heat" or "dampness" imbalances in the body. Common preparations include steamed pear with honey or rock sugar, or pear juice, believed to soothe the throat and clear internal heat.

Although pears are rich in water, vitamins, antioxidants, and dietary fiber, there is limited scientific research specifically validating their efficacy for cough relief or damp-related conditions. Some laboratory studies have explored the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of pears, which might theoretically offer some benefit to irritated respiratory tissues. However, clinical trials directly assessing pear's effect on cough are lacking, and most of the evidence remains anecdotal or based on traditional use.

In summary, while pears have a long history of use in managing coughs within traditional frameworks like TCM, scientific validation is minimal, and robust clinical evidence is lacking. Thus, their use is best characterized as traditional rather than scientifically established.