Evidence supporting the use of: Tannins
For the health condition: Anal Fistula or Fissure
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2
Tannins, a class of polyphenolic compounds found in many plants, have been used traditionally for the management of anal fistula and fissure, mainly in the form of topical preparations such as sitz baths, ointments, or poultices. The rationale for their use is based on their astringent properties, which are believed to help contract and heal mucosal tissues, reduce inflammation, and limit minor bleeding. In traditional medicine systems, particularly Ayurveda and folk medicine, tannin-rich plant extracts (e.g., from witch hazel, oak bark, or pomegranate rind) are commonly recommended for anorectal disorders.
However, the scientific evidence supporting the efficacy of tannins for anal fistula or fissure is limited. While some in vitro and animal studies demonstrate that tannins possess anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and wound-healing properties, robust clinical trials in humans specifically addressing anal fissure or fistula are lacking. Most available evidence is anecdotal or consists of small, uncontrolled studies. The astringent effect may offer symptomatic relief, such as reducing local irritation or bleeding, but it is not established as a cure or primary treatment. Modern clinical management of these conditions typically relies on pharmacological agents (e.g., topical nitrates, calcium channel blockers) and surgical interventions.
In summary, the use of mixed tannins for anal fistula or fissure is primarily justified by traditional use, with only modest scientific rationale and limited direct clinical evidence supporting their effectiveness for this specific indication.
Other ingredients used for Anal Fistula or Fissure
AchyranthesAerva lanata
Alkanna
Aloe vera
bai ji
Baliospermum
Baphicacanthus cusia
black nightshade
Bletilla
Boerhavia diffusa
Caesalpinia crista
Calotropis gigantea
castor oil
chamomile
colocynth
curcumin
Diosmin
elephant\'s head
Euphorbia
fiber
fiber blend (proprietary)
Ficus simplicissima
gotu kola
honey
Huang hua
Hydrocolloid
Indian bael
Kachnar
Kamala
Lebbek
licorice root
lodhtree
Malva sylvestris
Marking Nut Tree
Marshmallow
Mucilage
Myrobalan
Nimbidin
nut grass
Patrinia
Pellitory
Plantago
plantain
Plumbago zeylanica
Podophyllum
psyllium
Sangre de Grado
Sanguisorba
serratiopeptidase
Slippery Elm
slippery elm bark
Tannins
Trichosanthes
turmeric
Varuna
vitamin C
Witch Hazel
Other health conditions supported by Tannins
Abdominal PainAbrasions
Abscesses
Acid Indigestion
Anal Fistula or Fissure
Antibiotics (alternatives to)
Bleeding (external)
Boils
Bruises (healing)
Burns and Scalds
Cuts
Diarrhea
Dysentery
Gastritis
Gingivitis
Hemorrhoids
Infection
Infection (bacterial)
Infection (viral)
Inflammation
Itching
Poisoning (general)
Sore Throat
Strep Throat
Ulcerations (external)
Ulcers
Urinary Tract Infections
Wounds and Sores
