Chinese Raisintree (Hovenia dulcis) has a history of use in traditional medicine, particularly in East Asia, for various ailments, including liver protection and as a remedy for hangovers. Its potential as an alternative or adjunct to antibiotics is based on some scientific studies demonstrating antimicrobial properties. Laboratory experiments have isolated compounds such as flavonoids, saponins, and other polyphenols from Hovenia dulcis that exhibit activity against certain bacteria and fungi in vitro. For example, ethanol and methanol extracts of the plant's seeds, fruit, and bark have shown inhibitory effects on pathogens like Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli in petri-dish studies.

However, these results are preliminary and do not establish efficacy or safety in humans for treating infections or as a replacement for antibiotics. There are no large-scale clinical trials or robust animal studies demonstrating that Hovenia dulcis or its extracts are effective in treating bacterial infections in humans. Most of the research remains at the cell or tissue level, and the concentrations required for antimicrobial effects may not be achievable through dietary supplementation. Therefore, while there is some scientific basis for investigating Hovenia dulcis as a source of antimicrobial agents, current evidence does not support its use as a primary alternative to antibiotics.