An Open Label, Self-Controlled Study to Evaluate a “Fresh Clear” Formulation on Throat Symptoms in a Smoking Population

Abstract

Abstract Objectives Smoking has been associated with several respiratory problems including cough, phlegm production, dry throat, itchy throat, and hoarse voice. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of a botanical extract-based blend, Fresh Clear (FC), on the respiratory system of a smoking population. FC consists of 3 of botanical extracts: broccoli seed (Brasssica oleracea), Luo Han Guo (Siraitia grovenorii), and Honeysuckle Flower Bud (Lonicera japonica). Broccoli seed is rich in Sulforaphane, which was reported to promote healthy inflammatory balance, as well as to positively impact oxidative stress and DNA-damaging substances. Both Luo-han-guo and Honeysuckle Flower Bud have been used as traditional Chinese medicines for the treatment of pharyngitis, pharyngeal pain, as well as an antitussive remedy and anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative agent in China and East Asia. Methods This is an open-label, self-controlled study. Eighty smoking volunteers who had mild or moderate throat discomfort without respiratory diseases and other severe diseases were recruited. Volunteers were asked to consume FC at a dose of 1.45 g, 2 times/day for 8 weeks. Their symptoms of cough, phlegm production, dry throat, itchy throat, and hoarse voice were evaluated at week 0 (Baseline), week 4, and week 8 by questionnaire. Ultimately, 75 volunteers completed the study, 44 males and 31 females. Average age was 47.0 ± 10.6 years. All volunteers had smoked for over 3 years. Results We found significant amelioration of the listed throat symptoms as compared to baseline after 4- and 8- weeks FC consumption. Effective ratios at week 4 and week 8 respectively were 88% and 94% in cough, 91% and 95% in phlegm production, 90% and 90% in dry throat, 92% and 95% in itchy throat, and 94% and 89% in hoarse voice. Conclusions 8 weeks consumption of FC was shown to ameliorate smoking-induced throat symptoms in a smoking population with a smoking history of over 3 years. Funding Sources Nu Skin Enterprises.