Synopsis

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

Helicteres isora, commonly known as the Indian screw tree, has a long history of use in traditional medicine systems such as Ayurveda and folk medicine in India and Southeast Asia. Traditionally, various parts of the plant, especially the bark and roots, have been employed to manage bleeding, including external bleeding and wounds. Ethnobotanical surveys report the use of Helicteres isora paste or decoction applied topically to bleeding wounds to promote hemostasis and aid in wound healing. The rationale in traditional medicine is often based on the plant’s astringent properties, believed to contract tissues and reduce bleeding. However, scientific validation for this use is limited. Some preliminary phytochemical studies have identified the presence of tannins, flavonoids, and saponins in Helicteres isora, which could theoretically contribute to astringency and support wound healing. Nonetheless, direct clinical or robust experimental evidence specifically evaluating the efficacy of Helicteres isora in stopping external bleeding is lacking. Most available literature focuses on its anti-diabetic, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties rather than hemostatic effects. Therefore, while traditional use is well documented, scientific evidence remains minimal, and the overall evidence base is weak, warranting a score of 2 out of 5.

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