Synopsis

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

Heartwood, particularly from certain medicinal plants such as Tectona grandis (teak), Acacia catechu (catechu), and Dalbergia sissoo, has a long-standing use in traditional medicine systems such as Ayurveda and Unani for managing symptoms of cough, including spastic or dry coughs. The rationale for its use is primarily based on ethnobotanical records and ancient pharmacopeias that describe decoctions, powders, or infusions made from heartwood as remedies for respiratory ailments. These traditions attribute expectorant, demulcent, and anti-inflammatory properties to heartwood extracts, which are believed to soothe irritated mucous membranes and suppress cough reflexes.

However, the scientific validation for these uses is limited. A few in vitro and animal studies have suggested that extracts from the heartwood of certain species may possess antitussive or anti-inflammatory effects, but robust clinical trials in humans are lacking. The bioactive compounds, such as catechins, tannins, and flavonoids, present in some heartwoods have demonstrated pharmacological activities relevant to cough suppression, but the direct link to clinical efficacy in treating spastic cough remains to be established. Therefore, while the use of heartwood for cough is well-rooted in tradition, the current scientific evidence is insufficient, and more research is needed to substantiate these claims.

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