Synopsis

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

Paris polyphylla, commonly known as "Chonglou" in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), has a long history of use primarily for its anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antitoxic effects. In the context of treating cough—specifically spastic or convulsive cough—its use is justified primarily by traditional practice rather than robust scientific evidence. TCM sources sometimes include Paris polyphylla in complex herbal formulations intended to "clear heat," "resolve toxins," or "relieve cough," particularly when cough is attributed to "wind-heat" or associated with phlegm and inflammation. However, documentation of its direct use for spastic cough specifically is limited, and its more established indications are for swelling, trauma, snake bites, or abscesses.

Phytochemical studies have shown that Paris polyphylla contains steroidal saponins with potential anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, which could, in theory, contribute to reducing airway inflammation and cough. However, there are very few preclinical or clinical studies directly investigating its efficacy for cough, and none focus specifically on spastic cough. Most modern studies emphasize its anticancer and anti-inflammatory properties, not antitussive effects.

In summary, while Paris polyphylla's use for cough, including spastic cough, has some traditional precedent in TCM, there is a lack of direct scientific validation for this indication, and the evidence supporting its use for this specific symptom remains weak (rated 2/5).

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