Evidence supporting the use of: Balloon Flower
For the health condition: Wheezing
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2
Balloon Flower (Platycodon grandiflorus) has been used in traditional East Asian medicine, particularly in Chinese and Korean herbal practices, to address respiratory ailments such as cough, phlegm, and wheezing. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the root of Balloon Flower (known as Jie Geng) is considered to have expectorant properties, helping to "open up the lungs" and facilitate the expulsion of phlegm, which can alleviate symptoms like wheezing and coughing. Historical texts, such as the "Shennong Bencao Jing," reference its use for various pulmonary conditions.
Modern scientific studies on Balloon Flower's efficacy for wheezing specifically are limited. Some in vitro and animal studies suggest that its saponins and other constituents may have anti-inflammatory and expectorant effects, which could theoretically benefit respiratory symptoms. However, high-quality human clinical trials directly evaluating its effect on wheezing are lacking. As such, its use for wheezing is primarily justified by a long history of traditional use rather than strong scientific validation. Safety data for short-term use in traditional preparations is generally favorable, but comprehensive clinical evidence is insufficient.
Other health conditions supported by Balloon Flower
Abdominal PainAcid Indigestion
Allergies (respiratory)
Asthma
Bronchitis
Congestion (bronchial)
Congestion (lungs)
Congestion (sinus)
Cough (damp)
Cough (dry)
Cough (general)
Cough (spastic)
Fever
Gastritis
Headache (general)
Headache (sinus)
Inflammation
Influenza
Laryngitis
Nausea and Vomiting
Sore Throat
Wheezing
Wounds and Sores