Synopsis

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

Squill (Urginea maritima) has a long history of traditional use as an expectorant and remedy for cough, especially in cases of chronic or spastic cough. Its use dates back to ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome, where it was included in various medicinal preparations targeting respiratory ailments. The active compounds in squill, mainly cardiac glycosides like scillaren A and B, are thought to increase bronchial secretions, thereby helping to ease the expulsion of mucus and alleviate cough reflex. However, while its inclusion in traditional cough syrups and historical pharmacopeias is well documented, robust modern clinical trials confirming its efficacy for spastic cough are lacking. Some preclinical studies and older pharmacological references suggest a mild expectorant effect, but concerns about toxicity, particularly due to its cardiac glycosides, have limited its contemporary medical use. In summary, the use of squill for spastic cough is justified primarily by tradition and historical medical practice, with only modest pharmacological rationale and little high-quality scientific evidence supporting its effectiveness for this specific indication.

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