Evidence supporting the use of: Picrorhiza
For the health condition: Cirrhosis of the Liver

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Synopsis

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

Picrorhiza kurroa, commonly known as Picrorhiza, is a well-known herb in traditional Ayurvedic medicine, frequently used for liver disorders, including cirrhosis. Scientific studies have begun to investigate its efficacy for liver diseases. The primary active compounds, picroside I and II, have demonstrated hepatoprotective properties in preclinical (animal and in vitro) studies. These studies suggest that Picrorhiza extracts can reduce liver damage induced by toxins (e.g., carbon tetrachloride, paracetamol) and may help normalize liver enzyme levels. Proposed mechanisms include antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory effects that could be relevant in chronic liver injury such as cirrhosis.

However, clinical evidence in humans remains limited. Only a small number of clinical trials have been published, many with small sample sizes and methodological limitations. Some trials and case series report improvements in liver function tests in patients with viral or alcoholic hepatitis, but specific, high-quality clinical data for cirrhosis are lacking. Most reviews conclude that while preclinical data are promising, robust randomized controlled trials in humans are needed to confirm efficacy and safety in cirrhosis.

In summary, the use of Picrorhiza for cirrhosis is supported by traditional use and some encouraging scientific data, particularly from animal studies, but human clinical evidence is sparse and of low quality. Therefore, the scientific rating is modest.

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