Evidence supporting the use of: Garlic bulb
For the health condition: Cough (spastic)

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Synopsis

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

Garlic bulb (Allium sativum) has been traditionally used in various cultures as a remedy for coughs, particularly those described as "spastic" or associated with bronchial irritation. The historical use of garlic in treating cough dates back centuries, with records in traditional Chinese, Ayurvedic, and European folk medicine. Garlic's reputation as a remedy for respiratory conditions is largely attributed to its volatile compounds, such as allicin, which are released when garlic is crushed or chopped. These compounds are thought to have antimicrobial and expectorant properties, which could theoretically help alleviate cough by reducing underlying infections and promoting mucus clearance.

Despite its long history of use, scientific evidence supporting garlic’s efficacy specifically for spastic or persistent cough is limited. Some laboratory and animal studies suggest that garlic extracts may have mild antitussive (cough-suppressing) and bronchodilatory effects, and there is evidence for its antimicrobial action against respiratory pathogens. However, high-quality clinical trials in humans for garlic as a treatment for cough are lacking, and most available evidence is anecdotal or based on traditional practice rather than robust scientific validation.

In summary, the use of garlic bulb for supporting or treating cough (spastic) is primarily justified by tradition, with some biological plausibility based on known actions of garlic constituents, but scientific evidence remains insufficient to strongly support its use for this specific condition.

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Abies spectabilis
Acacia
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Adenophora
Aerva lanata
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Alantolactone
Albizia
Alcohol
Allicin
Allium tuberosum
Allyl sulfide
Aloe vera
alpha-pinene
alpha-terpineol
alpinia galangal
ambergris
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andrographolide
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apple
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calamus
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garlic bulb
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glehnia root
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