Evidence supporting the use of: Cinnamon
For the health condition: Cough (dry)

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Synopsis

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

Cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum or Cinnamomum cassia) has a long history of use in traditional medicine systems, including Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and Ayurveda, for alleviating respiratory symptoms such as cough, particularly dry cough. In TCM, cinnamon is considered warming and is often used to dispel "cold" and support the lungs. Formulations like "Gui Zhi Tang" (Cinnamon Twig Decoction) are sometimes prescribed for cough and respiratory discomfort associated with external cold invasion and deficiency.

Traditionally, cinnamon is believed to have demulcent and expectorant properties, helping to soothe throat irritation and reduce cough reflex. Its warming nature is thought to promote circulation and relieve stagnation, which are considered underlying factors in certain patterns of dry cough.

However, scientific evidence supporting cinnamon’s use specifically for dry cough is limited. Some in-vitro and animal studies indicate that cinnamon has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which could theoretically benefit respiratory health, but these findings have not been directly linked to clinical outcomes for dry cough in humans. Most clinical research on cinnamon focuses on metabolic and antimicrobial effects, rather than respiratory symptoms.

In summary, cinnamon’s use for dry cough is primarily supported by traditional practices, and there is a historical basis for its inclusion in herbal remedies. Modern scientific validation remains limited, and further clinical studies are needed to substantiate its efficacy for this specific indication.

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