Synopsis

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

Pepper, particularly black pepper (Piper nigrum), has a long history of use in traditional medicine systems such as Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for treating respiratory ailments, including dry cough. In these traditions, pepper is believed to stimulate circulation and mucus flow, helping to relieve throat irritation and support expectoration. Remedies often involve combining pepper with honey or other ingredients to soothe the throat and promote relief from coughing.

While there are some laboratory studies suggesting that black pepper contains bioactive compounds like piperine, which may have anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, or bronchodilatory effects, direct clinical evidence supporting its effectiveness specifically for dry cough in humans is limited. The majority of the support for using pepper in this context is based on anecdotal reports and traditional practices rather than rigorous scientific trials. Thus, while it is plausible that pepper may offer some symptomatic relief for mild cough due to its irritant and warming properties, it should not be considered a primary or evidence-based treatment for cough according to modern standards.

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