Synopsis

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

Japanese Pine (Pinus thunbergii) and related pine species have a long history of use in traditional Japanese, Chinese, and Korean herbal medicine. Pine needles, bark, and resin extracts have been used traditionally to manage respiratory complaints, including coughs and bronchitis. The rationale in traditional medicine is based on the aromatic and expectorant qualities attributed to pine, believed to help "clear phlegm" and ease breathing. Historical texts and ethnobotanical surveys document the use of pine needle tea or inhalations for such purposes. However, modern scientific evidence supporting these uses is limited. While some studies on pine extracts (primarily from other species, such as Pinus sylvestris or Pinus pinaster) indicate mild anti-inflammatory or antimicrobial effects, there is little direct clinical research on Japanese Pine specifically for cough. The evidence is thus primarily traditional, with limited pharmacological basis and lack of human trials. Therefore, while Japanese Pine has historical use for cough in traditional medicine, its efficacy and safety for this indication have not been validated by rigorous scientific studies.

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