Synopsis

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

Borassus aethiopum (African fan palm) has a history of use in traditional medicine across parts of Africa, including for respiratory ailments such as cough. Ethnobotanical surveys document that various parts of the plant—especially the roots and fruits—are used by local healers to prepare remedies for cough and related symptoms. These traditional practices are reported in several sources, such as Adekunle et al. (2012, "Ethnobotanical Survey of Medicinal Plants Used in the Treatment of Cough in Ogbomoso, Nigeria") and Burkill’s "The Useful Plants of West Tropical Africa". However, the evidence supporting this use is primarily anecdotal and based on traditional knowledge passed down through generations. Scientific validation for the efficacy of Borassus aethiopum in treating cough is currently lacking. There are few, if any, peer-reviewed pharmacological studies specifically evaluating its effects on cough or its underlying causes. Some general phytochemical analyses suggest the plant contains compounds with potential anti-inflammatory or antimicrobial activities, which could theoretically contribute to cough relief, but these effects have not been directly tested or confirmed in human or animal models of cough. In summary, while the traditional use is well-documented, scientific evidence remains insufficient, and thus the rating for evidence is low.

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