Evidence supporting the use of: Sophora flavescens
For the health condition: Appendicitis

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Synopsis

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

Sophora flavescens, known as "Ku Shen" in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), has been historically used for its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. In TCM, it is sometimes included as part of multi-herb formulas to address "abdominal pain" and "intestinal abscesses," which may be interpreted in modern terms as including appendicitis. The rationale is based on the herb’s traditional category as a "heat-clearing" and "dampness-drying" agent, which practitioners believe helps resolve internal infections and inflammatory processes. However, this use is based on empirical tradition rather than precise clinical identification of appendicitis as understood in modern medicine.

Scientific evidence supporting the use of Sophora flavescens specifically for appendicitis is very limited. Some in vitro and animal studies suggest its alkaloids (such as matrine and oxymatrine) possess anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects, but direct studies on appendicitis in humans are lacking. Most published research examines broader anti-inflammatory actions or effects on other infections, not acute appendicitis. There are no high-quality randomized controlled trials or systematic reviews supporting its efficacy or safety for treating appendicitis, which is a potentially life-threatening condition typically requiring surgical intervention. Therefore, while traditional use exists, scientific validation is minimal, and its use should not substitute for standard medical care.

More about Sophora flavescens
More about Appendicitis

Other ingredients used for Appendicitis

Coptis chinensis
forsythia
Bai Ji

Products containing Sophora flavescens

We currently have no products on Vitabase that contain this ingredient.