Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 3

Platycodon grandiflorus, commonly known as balloon flower, has a long history of use in traditional East Asian medicine, especially in Chinese and Korean herbal practices. Its root, referred to as "Jie Geng" in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), is widely used to treat coughs, sore throat, and other respiratory ailments. The use of Platycodon for cough is documented in classic TCM texts, where it is described as having the ability to "disseminate lung qi," "expel phlegm," and "relieve cough." The traditional preparations often involve decoctions or syrups made from the root, used alone or in combination with other herbs.

Modern scientific research on Platycodon’s efficacy for cough is limited but growing. Some laboratory and animal studies have identified saponins and other phytochemicals in Platycodon root that exhibit anti-inflammatory, expectorant, and antitussive (cough-suppressing) properties. A few small clinical studies have suggested potential benefits in reducing cough and improving mucus clearance, but methodological limitations and lack of large-scale, high-quality human trials mean that scientific validation is still preliminary.

Overall, the use of Platycodon for cough is strongly rooted in traditional practice, with modest but insufficient scientific evidence to fully validate its efficacy by modern standards.

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