Evidence supporting the use of: Platycodon root
For the health condition: Adenitis

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Synopsis

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

Platycodon root (Platycodon grandiflorus), known as Jie Geng in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), has a long history of use in East Asian herbal medicine. Traditionally, it is employed to "open up the lungs," clear phlegm, and relieve sore throat and cough. Adenitis refers to the inflammation of lymph nodes, commonly due to infection. In TCM, conditions involving swelling and inflammation of the throat or glands (including lymph nodes) are sometimes addressed with platycodon root, as it is believed to help "disperse pus" and reduce swelling. Ancient texts often cite its use for abscesses and swellings, which would include presentations akin to adenitis.

From a scientific perspective, platycodon root contains saponins and other compounds with in vitro anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects. However, robust clinical trials specifically investigating its efficacy for adenitis in humans are lacking. Most of the evidence comes from traditional usage patterns and small-scale studies on related symptoms like sore throat or respiratory infection. Thus, while there is a plausible rationale for its use grounded in traditional practice and preliminary biological activity, high-quality scientific validation is insufficient. The evidence rating is given as 2 to reflect promising traditional support but limited clinical research.

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