Hairy Fig (Ficus hirta) is used in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and some Southeast Asian herbal practices. In these systems, it is believed to strengthen lung function, clear phlegm, and support respiratory health in general. This has led to its use for a variety of chronic respiratory conditions, including emphysema, though the traditional terminology does not map exactly to modern biomedical diagnoses. The rationale in TCM is based on the herb’s properties of "tonifying Qi" and moistening the lungs, rather than any direct evidence for treating emphysema as defined in Western medicine.

Scientific studies on Ficus hirta are limited and typically focus on its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties in vitro or in animal models. There is no robust clinical evidence or controlled human trials to support the use of Hairy Fig specifically for emphysema. The rating reflects the lack of direct scientific validation and highlights that the use is primarily traditional, with a very low level of supporting evidence from a biomedical perspective.