Synopsis

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

Lo Han Guo (Siraitia grosvenorii), also known as monk fruit, has a long history of use in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), primarily for its purported benefits in relieving coughs and soothing sore throats. In TCM, Lo Han Guo is considered to have cooling and moistening properties and is often used in herbal mixtures intended to address symptoms of upper respiratory tract infections, including those caused by influenza. However, the rationale for its use is based on traditional principles rather than modern scientific understanding of viral infections.

There is limited scientific evidence directly supporting the use of Lo Han Guo for treating or preventing influenza. Some laboratory studies have indicated that extracts from the fruit possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, and a few studies have explored its general antimicrobial and immunomodulatory activity. However, these findings are preliminary, and there is a lack of robust clinical trials specifically evaluating its efficacy against influenza viruses in humans. Thus, while its traditional use for respiratory symptoms is well-documented, scientific validation for its use against influenza remains weak. Overall, the use of Lo Han Guo for influenza is primarily justified by tradition, with minimal direct scientific support.

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