Synopsis

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

Boerhavia diffusa, commonly known as Punarnava, has a longstanding history of use in traditional medicine systems such as Ayurveda and Unani for managing various conditions, including external bleeding. In these traditions, the herb is recognized for its purported hemostatic (bleeding-stopping) properties, often applied as a poultice or paste to wounds to aid in arresting blood flow. Historical Ayurvedic texts mention its use in formulations for external injuries, cuts, and wounds, suggesting its role as a supportive remedy for bleeding control. However, while ethnobotanical reports and traditional literature document this usage, there is a notable lack of robust scientific studies evaluating Boerhavia diffusa’s efficacy specifically for external bleeding. Most modern pharmacological research on the plant has focused on its anti-inflammatory, diuretic, and hepatoprotective effects rather than its hemostatic activity. Only limited preclinical data are available, and these do not provide conclusive evidence to validate its role in arresting external bleeding. Therefore, the justification for using Boerhavia diffusa in this context is predominantly based on tradition rather than scientific validation, and the overall quality of evidence supporting this specific use remains low.

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