Evidence supporting the use of: Fritillary
For the health condition: Wheezing
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2
Fritillary, particularly the bulbs of Fritillaria cirrhosa and related species (known as "Chuan Bei Mu" in Traditional Chinese Medicine, TCM), has a long history of use in East Asian medicine for the treatment of respiratory ailments, including cough, phlegm, and wheezing. In TCM, fritillary is classified as an herb that transforms phlegm and stops cough, and is commonly prescribed for chronic coughs with thick sputum or for conditions characterized by "phlegm-heat". The historical use is well-documented in classical Chinese medical texts such as the "Shen Nong Ben Cao Jing" and the "Compendium of Materia Medica".
Modern pharmacological studies have identified several alkaloids (e.g., peimine, peiminine) in Fritillary species, with some in vitro and animal studies suggesting antitussive (cough-suppressant) and expectorant properties. However, robust clinical evidence, particularly randomized controlled trials in humans focusing specifically on wheezing, is limited. Most contemporary use for "wheezing" is extrapolated from its traditional indications for cough and phlegm. Systematic reviews generally find insufficient high-quality evidence to fully endorse its efficacy for wheezing by Western medical standards.
In summary, Fritillary’s use for wheezing is primarily justified by traditional practice, with some preliminary pharmacological support but limited clinical validation. The evidence rating is 2, reflecting mainly traditional use and modest scientific rationale but a lack of strong clinical trial data.
Other health conditions supported by Fritillary
Abdominal PainAsthma
Bronchitis
Cough (dry)
Cough (general)
Cough (spastic)
Fever
Inflammation
Pain (general remedies for)
Sore Throat
Wheezing
