Paris polyphylla, commonly known as "Chong Lou" in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), has a documented history of use for a variety of ailments, including the management of afterbirth pain (postpartum pain). In TCM, Paris polyphylla is thought to possess properties that "clear heat," "detoxify," and "reduce swelling and pain." Its use in alleviating afterbirth pain is primarily rooted in these traditional beliefs, where it is often included in herbal formulas intended to reduce pain and inflammation following childbirth.

The pharmacological rationale for this use is based on the plant's known content of steroidal saponins, which have demonstrated anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects in preclinical studies. However, these studies have not specifically targeted afterbirth pain, and there is a lack of high-quality clinical trials directly confirming efficacy for this particular condition. Thus, while anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties provide some theoretical support, the evidence remains indirect.

In summary, the use of Paris polyphylla for afterbirth pain is primarily supported by traditional usage and pharmacological plausibility rather than robust scientific validation. Clinical evidence is insufficient, and further research would be needed to substantiate its effectiveness for this specific indication.