Synopsis

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

Umckaloabo, also known as Pelargonium sidoides extract, has been traditionally used in South Africa for respiratory tract infections. In recent decades, its use has expanded to Europe and elsewhere for treating acute bronchitis and other respiratory ailments, including influenza-like illnesses. Clinical studies and systematic reviews have investigated the efficacy of Umckaloabo in treating upper respiratory tract infections and the common cold, with some suggesting modest benefits in reducing symptom duration and severity. However, direct evidence for its effectiveness specifically against laboratory-confirmed influenza is limited.

The proposed mechanisms of action include immunomodulatory effects and possible direct antiviral activity, but most studies focus on broader respiratory symptoms rather than influenza per se. The Cochrane Review (2013 and updates) found low- to moderate-quality evidence for symptom improvement in acute bronchitis and the common cold, but did not provide robust conclusions for influenza. Regulatory bodies such as the European Medicines Agency recognize Umckaloabo as a traditional herbal medicine for treating symptoms of common colds, but not specifically for influenza.

In conclusion, while Umckaloabo is supported by some scientific evidence for general respiratory tract infections, evidence specifically for influenza is weak (rated 2/5), and its use for this condition is only partially scientifically justified.

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