Evidence supporting the use of: Prickly ash (mixed)
For the health condition: Blood Poisoning

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1

Prickly ash (commonly referring to plants in the Zanthoxylum genus) has a long-standing history of use in traditional herbal medicine, particularly in North America. Native American and early European herbalists used prickly ash bark and berries for a variety of ailments, including circulatory problems and as a “blood purifier.” The term "blood poisoning" historically referred to what we now recognize as sepsis or severe systemic infections. In traditional medicine, prickly ash was believed to stimulate circulation and help the body overcome infections or “bad blood.” However, these uses were based on empirical observation and the doctrine of signatures, not on controlled scientific study.

To date, there is no significant scientific evidence supporting prickly ash’s efficacy for treating blood poisoning (sepsis). Modern research on prickly ash focuses on its alkaloids and essential oils, which show some antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties in vitro. However, no clinical studies have demonstrated that prickly ash can treat systemic infections or sepsis in humans. Its continued use for “blood poisoning” is, therefore, justified primarily by tradition rather than science. Reliance on prickly ash for such a serious medical condition is not recommended, and prompt professional medical treatment is essential for blood poisoning.

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