Synopsis

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

Asarum heterotropoides (commonly known as wild ginger or "xixin" in Traditional Chinese Medicine) has a long-standing historical use for treating symptoms associated with allergic rhinitis, such as nasal congestion and runny nose. In classical Chinese medicine texts, Asarum is included in formulations like Xinyi San and Cang Er Zi San, which are prescribed for "wind-cold" invasions presenting with nasal symptoms. The herb is believed to possess properties that "open the nasal orifices" and "disperse wind-cold," which corresponds to alleviating symptoms like sneezing, congestion, and rhinorrhea.

While modern pharmacological studies have identified some anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic activities of Asarum heterotropoides extracts in vitro and in animal models, clinical evidence in humans remains limited and inconclusive. Most of the support for its use in allergic rhinitis comes from traditional practice rather than robust clinical trials. Therefore, the justification for using Asarum heterotropoides to support or treat allergic rhinitis is primarily based on traditional usage, and the strength of evidence is modest at best.

It is important to note that Asarum contains aristolochic acids, compounds associated with nephrotoxicity and carcinogenicity, raising safety concerns for its use, especially in unregulated preparations.

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