Evidence supporting the use of: Fritillaria
For the health condition: Wheezing

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Synopsis

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

Fritillaria, particularly the bulbs of species like Fritillaria cirrhosa and Fritillaria thunbergii, has a long history of use in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for treating respiratory conditions, including wheezing, cough, and phlegm accumulation. In TCM, fritillaria is known as "Chuan Bei Mu" or "Zhe Bei Mu" and is believed to clear heat, moisten the lungs, and transform phlegm. Classical texts such as the Shennong Bencao Jing and the Compendium of Materia Medica document its application in cases of chronic cough and wheezing, particularly when due to lung heat or dryness.

Modern pharmacological studies have identified certain alkaloids in fritillaria (e.g., peimine, peiminine) that may have antitussive (cough-suppressing), expectorant, and anti-inflammatory effects in animal models. However, robust clinical trials in humans are lacking, and most evidence remains anecdotal or based on traditional use. As such, while there is preliminary scientific interest, the primary justification for using fritillaria to treat or support wheezing remains rooted in traditional practice rather than strong scientific validation. The evidence score of 2 reflects the presence of some pharmacological studies, but a lack of high-quality, large-scale human research.

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