Fringetree (Chionanthus virginicus) has a long history of use in traditional herbal medicine, particularly among Native American and 19th-century Eclectic medical practitioners in the United States. It was commonly utilized as a "tonic" for the liver, gallbladder, and occasionally for the urinary tract, including the bladder. Historical texts, such as King's American Dispensatory and Felter & Lloyd's writings, reference fringetree bark as being used for "chronic urinary catarrh," "cystitis," and as a mild diuretic. These applications were largely based on empirical observation rather than controlled studies.

However, scientific evidence supporting fringetree's efficacy for bladder health is lacking. Modern phytochemical research has focused primarily on its potential hepatoprotective and choleretic effects, with scant investigation into its relevance for the urinary tract or bladder specifically. No clinical trials have evaluated its impact on bladder function, urinary tract infections, or related conditions. Thus, while traditional usage exists, it is not substantiated by robust scientific validation. The evidence level is rated as 2, reflecting historical use but minimal contemporary scientific support.