Synopsis

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

The use of Solanaceae plants to treat cough, particularly "damp" cough (a concept rooted in traditional medicine systems, such as Traditional Chinese Medicine), is primarily justified by traditional rather than scientific evidence. Several genera and species within the Solanaceae family—such as Solanum (e.g., Solanum nigrum), Capsicum (e.g., chili peppers), and Withania (e.g., ashwagandha)—have historical use in various traditional medicine systems for respiratory ailments, including cough. In Traditional Chinese Medicine and Ayurveda, some Solanaceae plants are classified as expectorants or remedies to clear "dampness" and phlegm from the lungs. For example, Solanum nigrum is referenced in Chinese herbal texts for its purported effects on respiratory conditions, though specifics for "damp cough" are not always clearly delineated. However, the overall scientific evidence supporting the use of unspecified Solanaceae for cough, particularly damp cough, is weak. Most modern pharmacological studies focus on other aspects of these plants, such as their alkaloid content and toxicity, rather than their efficacy in treating cough. Therefore, while there is a clear tradition of use, robust clinical or pharmacological validation is lacking, and the evidence can be rated as modest (2/5).

More about Solanaceae (unspecified)
More about Cough (damp)

Other ingredients used for Cough (damp)

Other health conditions supported by Solanaceae (unspecified)

Products containing Solanaceae (unspecified)