Synopsis

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

Chinese Chive (Allium tuberosum), known as "Jiǔ cài" (韭菜) in Chinese, has a long history of use in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Traditionally, it is believed to warm the kidneys, fortify yang, and disperse cold. Its use for cough, particularly dry cough, comes from TCM texts where it is sometimes included in herbal formulas for chronic cough due to deficiency or cold. The seeds (not just the leaves) are most commonly referenced for this purpose. Ancient materia medica, such as the "Shen Nong Ben Cao Jing," mention Chinese Chive in the context of supporting lung function and alleviating respiratory symptoms. However, the evidence is largely anecdotal and based on traditional practice rather than controlled scientific studies.

Modern scientific validation for Chinese Chive as a treatment for dry cough is lacking. There are few, if any, clinical trials or robust pharmacological studies investigating its efficacy for this indication. Some studies have explored the antimicrobial or anti-inflammatory properties of Allium species in general, but direct evidence for cough relief is minimal. Thus, the use of Chinese Chive for dry cough is primarily justified by tradition, with moderate historical support but little scientific backing.

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