Synopsis

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

Bistort (Persicaria bistorta, formerly Polygonum bistorta) has a long history of traditional use for treating external bleeding. In European folk medicine, its root, which is rich in tannins, has been used topically as an astringent—meaning it helps to contract tissues and blood vessels, thereby reducing bleeding and promoting wound healing. Historical herbal texts, such as those from Nicholas Culpeper and other pre-modern herbalists, frequently mention bistort as an agent for stemming bleeding from cuts, wounds, and ulcers. The high tannin content is the likely basis for its astringent and styptic (bleeding-stopping) properties. However, while these traditional uses are well documented, modern clinical trials or rigorous scientific studies directly evaluating the efficacy of bistort for external bleeding are lacking. The evidence is thus primarily traditional, and while the plausible mechanism (astringency) is supported by phytochemical analysis, there is limited scientific validation from controlled studies. Therefore, the evidence rating is moderate (2 out of 5), reflecting a reliance on historical usage rather than robust clinical research.

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