Evidence supporting the use of: Isatis
For the health condition: Carbuncles

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Synopsis

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

Isatis (commonly known as woad, with species such as Isatis tinctoria and Isatis indigotica) has a long history of use in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), where it is called "Ban Lan Gen" (root) or "Da Qing Ye" (leaf). In TCM, Isatis is considered useful for "clearing heat" and "resolving toxicity," and is traditionally prescribed for various infectious conditions, including carbuncles, which are described as severe, localized skin infections. Historical materia medica texts, such as the "Shennong Bencao Jing," and modern TCM pharmacopeias, include Isatis as a remedy for sores, abscesses, and carbuncles, often in combination with other herbs.

However, while there are in vitro studies showing that extracts of Isatis possess antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, there is very limited direct clinical evidence validating its efficacy specifically for carbuncles in humans. Most available scientific studies focus on its general antimicrobial effects or its use in viral respiratory infections. Thus, the use of Isatis for carbuncles is primarily justified by tradition and empirical use rather than robust modern scientific validation. The evidence rating of 2 reflects the presence of some pharmacological rationale and traditional backing, but a lack of high-quality clinical trials or targeted research for this specific condition.

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