Treatment of the common cold with herbs used in Ayurveda and Jamu: monograph review and the science of ginger, liquorice, turmeric and peppermint

Abstract

Background The common cold is typically managed with decongestants, antihistamines, antitussives and antipyretics. In addition to these established medications, herbal ingredients have been used over centuries to help treat common cold symptoms. The Ayurveda and Jamu systems of medicine, originating from India and Indonesia, respectively, have leveraged herbal therapies to treat many illnesses. Method An expert roundtable discussion comprising specialists in Ayurveda, Jamu, pharmacology and surgery along with a literature review was conducted to evaluate the use of four herbs – ginger, liquorice, turmeric and peppermint – for common cold symptom management in Ayurvedic texts, Jamu publications and monographs from the World Health Organization, Health Canada and various European guidelines. Discussion Due to a lack of antivirals, common cold management revolves around maintaining personal hygiene and symptom management. Herbal medicines have been an integral part of many cultures worldwide. Despite its growing acceptance, there is a perception that healthcare providers lack interest and may prevent patients from discussing the use of herbal medicines. Limited education and training may also widen the communication gap between patients and healthcare providers, hindering effective management. Conclusion Evaluation of scientific evidence and the standing in international monographs can offer perspectives on the use of herbal medicines for common cold management.

Patient–physician communication on herbal medicine use during pregnancy: a systematic review and meta-analysis

“…Pregnant women from various countries rely on HM because they assume that HM is a safer alternative to conventional medicine, posing fewer risks to the developing fetus 171 172. This reliance is substantiated by the traditional practices and scientific validation of several herbs known for their efficacy in addressing physical discomfort during pregnancy 12 173 174. For example, ginger, peppermint and chamomile have proven effective in relieving nausea and vomiting,173 175–177 while cranberry consumption has demonstrated efficacy in preventing urinary tract infections 178 179.…”

“…This reliance is substantiated by the traditional practices and scientific validation of several herbs known for their efficacy in addressing physical discomfort during pregnancy 12 173 174. For example, ginger, peppermint and chamomile have proven effective in relieving nausea and vomiting,173 175–177 while cranberry consumption has demonstrated efficacy in preventing urinary tract infections 178 179. Furthermore, garlic has shown preventive properties against pre-eclampsia 174.…”

Analysis of the Effectiveness of kerokan (Coining) to Relieve Dizziness and Colds in Parungponteng District

“…Kerokan is an alternative therapy for cold symptoms by scraping by pressing the surface of the skin with oil and a blunt object such as a coin or currency as a scraper, then causing red streaks or blisters. on the skin (Wardani et al, 2023;Cerio & Calonje, 2004).…”

“…In addition, there is stimulation of keratinocytes and endothelium (the innermost layer of blood vessels) which will respond to the presence of propiomelanocortin (POMC). This substance is a polypeptide which is then broken down to produce the final result, one of which is beta-endorphin (Wardani et al, 2023;Lestari & Safitri 2022).…”