Evidence supporting the use of: Mucilage
For the health condition: Anal Fistula or Fissure
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2
Mucilage, a gelatinous substance derived from plants such as psyllium, flaxseed, and slippery elm, has been traditionally used in various cultures to support gastrointestinal and anal health, including conditions like anal fissure and fistula. Its use is primarily based on its demulcent and bulk-forming properties. Mucilage can soften stool and provide a soothing, protective layer over irritated mucous membranes, which may help reduce pain during defecation and promote comfort in patients with anal fissures. Psyllium husk, for example, is commonly used to prevent constipation, thereby reducing straining and further injury to the anal mucosa. Historical texts from Ayurvedic and traditional Western herbal medicine mention the use of mucilaginous herbs for their soothing and healing properties in rectal and anal disorders. However, scientific studies directly evaluating mucilage for anal fissure or fistula are very limited. Existing clinical guidelines sometimes recommend fiber supplementation (including psyllium) for fissures, but not specifically for fistula. The evidence supporting mucilage's efficacy for these conditions is mostly anecdotal or extrapolated from its general effects on bowel regularity and mucosal protection, rather than from robust clinical trials. In summary, the use of mucilage for anal fissure and fistula is primarily rooted in traditional practice with modest indirect evidence, but lacks strong scientific validation specific to these conditions.
Other ingredients used for Anal Fistula or Fissure
aloe veramyrobalan
chamomile
turmeric
curcumin
fiber blend (proprietary)
gotu kola
licorice root
marshmallow
plantain
psyllium
serratiopeptidase
slippery elm bark
vitamin C
Indian bael
nut grass
caesalpinia crista
trichosanthes
Achyranthes
Aerva lanata
Alkanna
Bai Ji
Baliospermum
Baphicacanthus cusia
Bletilla
Black Nightshade
Boerhavia diffusa
Calotropis gigantea
Castor Oil
Colocynth
Diosmin
Elephant's Head
Euphorbia
Fiber
Other health conditions supported by Mucilage
Acid IndigestionAnal Fistula or Fissure
Asthma
Burns and Scalds
Colitis
Constipation (adults)
Constipation (children)
Cough (dry)
Cough (general)
Cough (spastic)
Diarrhea
Digestion (poor)
Dyspepsia
Gastritis
Hemorrhoids
Indigestion
Inflammation
Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Leaky Gut Syndrome
Phlebitis
Pleurisy
Psoriasis
Skin (dry and/or flaky)
Skin (infections)
Ulcers
Wounds and Sores