Synopsis

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

Shepherd's purse (Capsella bursa-pastoris) has a long history of use in traditional herbal medicine, particularly in Europe and Asia. Traditionally, it has been used as a remedy for various types of bleeding, including nosebleeds, heavy menstrual bleeding, and wounds, which are indirectly related to capillary health. The rationale is based on its supposed astringent properties, believed to constrict blood vessels and thus reduce bleeding. Historical texts from traditional European herbalists and Chinese medicine sources mention its use for "cooling blood" and stopping hemorrhage.

However, direct scientific evidence supporting shepherd's purse specifically for strengthening or supporting the capillary system is limited. Some in vitro and animal studies suggest it may have hemostatic effects, likely due to compounds such as flavonoids and polypeptides that could influence vascular tone or promote clotting. Nonetheless, these effects have not been robustly confirmed in human clinical trials, nor is there clear evidence that shepherd's purse strengthens capillaries or improves their resilience in healthy individuals.

In summary, shepherd's purse is used to support capillary health primarily on the basis of tradition, with some plausible but not definitive pharmacological actions suggested by preliminary research. Its evidence base remains modest (2/5), mainly derived from historical use and limited preclinical data rather than rigorous scientific validation.

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