Evidence supporting the use of: Boerhavia diffusa
For the health condition: Cirrhosis of the Liver

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Synopsis

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

Boerhavia diffusa (commonly known as Punarnava) has a long history of use in Ayurvedic and traditional medicine for supporting liver health, including in conditions like cirrhosis. Traditional texts and ethnobotanical reports describe its use as a "hepatoprotective" agent, diuretic, and rejuvenative tonic. The rationale behind its use in cirrhosis is largely based on its perceived ability to "rejuvenate" the liver and manage symptoms such as fluid retention (ascites).

Scientific research on Boerhavia diffusa provides some preclinical evidence suggesting hepatoprotective effects, including studies in animal models where extracts of the plant have shown protective action against chemically induced liver damage. These effects are attributed to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and diuretic properties, as well as its phytochemical constituents like punarnavine and boeravinones.

However, clinical studies in humans with cirrhosis are lacking, and the existing evidence is not robust or sufficient to rate its efficacy highly. The primary justification for its use in cirrhosis remains rooted in tradition, with limited but promising preclinical scientific support. Therefore, while Boerhavia diffusa is widely used in traditional medicine for liver support, its use in cirrhosis is not yet strongly validated by high-quality scientific studies.

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