Evidence supporting the use of: Phellodendron amurense
For the health condition: Conjunctivitis

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Synopsis

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

Phellodendron amurense, commonly known as Amur cork tree, is used in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and East Asian herbal systems. Its bark, referred to as "Huang Bai," is considered to have anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and "heat-clearing" properties according to TCM theory. In traditional practice, formulations containing Phellodendron amurense have been used to address conditions that manifest with redness, swelling, and discharge—symptoms that overlap with those of conjunctivitis ("red eye"). Classical texts and materia medica such as the "Shennong Bencao Jing" mention its use for various inflammatory and infectious conditions, though not always specifically naming conjunctivitis as understood in modern medicine.

Modern pharmacological studies have shown that extracts from the bark possess antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory activity in vitro and in animal models, which could theoretically be beneficial for conjunctival infections. However, there is a lack of high-quality clinical trials or direct scientific studies specifically assessing the efficacy of Phellodendron amurense for conjunctivitis in humans. Most evidence supporting its use for eye conditions remains rooted in traditional practice rather than robust clinical science. Therefore, while there is a historical precedent for its use in treating ocular inflammation or infection, the overall evidence base is limited, and modern clinical validation is lacking.

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