Arisaema species, particularly Arisaema erubescens and Arisaema consanguineum, have a long history of use in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and Ayurveda. In TCM, prepared forms of Arisaema tubers (not raw, as the raw tuber is toxic) are known as "Tian Nan Xing" and are used primarily to "transform phlegm," "dispel wind," and alleviate symptoms such as cough, excessive sputum, and swelling of the throat—functions associated with supporting the mucus membranes of the respiratory tract. The traditional rationale stems from the herb's reputed ability to resolve dampness and reduce phlegm accumulation, concepts that, while not directly translatable to modern biomedical terms, are often mapped to the management of mucus and inflammation in the upper respiratory system.

However, robust scientific evidence supporting these uses is limited. There are a few pharmacological studies suggesting anti-inflammatory and anti-tussive (cough-suppressing) effects in animal models, but clinical trials in humans are lacking. The evidence base is therefore primarily traditional, and caution is advised due to the toxic nature of raw Arisaema (which requires specific processing to be rendered safe for use). In summary, Arisaema’s use for mucus membrane support is justified by traditional practice rather than scientific validation.