Synopsis

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

Cubeb (Piper cubeba), also known as tailed pepper, has a long history of use in traditional medicine, particularly in Asian and Middle Eastern herbal practices. Its use for cough relief is documented in classical Ayurvedic, Unani, and medieval European texts, where cubeb was often included in formulations for respiratory ailments such as cough, bronchitis, and sore throat. The traditional rationale for its inclusion is its expectorant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties, believed to help clear mucus and soothe irritated airways.

However, scientific validation for cubeb’s effectiveness against cough is limited. Few modern studies have explored its pharmacological effects, and those that exist generally focus on its essential oils and their antimicrobial properties, rather than direct antitussive (cough-suppressing) activity. Some in vitro research suggests that cubeb oil has mild anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects, which could theoretically benefit respiratory tract infections, but clinical trials in humans are lacking.

In summary, the use of cubeb to treat cough is primarily rooted in traditional medicine with only modest supporting evidence from modern phytochemical and pharmacological research. The lack of robust clinical studies means that while it remains a historical remedy, its efficacy and safety for cough in evidence-based medicine are not well established.

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