Evidence supporting the use of: Sophora flavescens
For the health condition: Conjunctivitis

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Synopsis

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

Sophora flavescens (commonly known as Ku Shen) is a traditional herb widely used in Chinese medicine. Its use for conjunctivitis is primarily justified by historical and traditional practices rather than robust scientific validation. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Sophora flavescens has been prescribed for "clearing heat" and "removing toxins," often in the context of treating eye inflammations such as conjunctivitis. Ancient medical texts and modern TCM formularies document its inclusion in herbal combinations for red, swollen, or painful eyes.

Phytochemical analyses of Sophora flavescens indicate the presence of alkaloids (such as matrine and oxymatrine) and flavonoids, some of which have demonstrated anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties in laboratory studies. However, direct clinical studies evaluating the efficacy of Sophora flavescens for conjunctivitis in humans are very limited or absent. Much of the evidence remains anecdotal or based on animal models and in vitro experiments, which show some promise for antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activity.

In summary, the use of Sophora flavescens for conjunctivitis is primarily supported by longstanding traditional usage, not by high-quality clinical trials. The evidence rating is modest (2/5) due to the lack of direct scientific validation for this specific indication, despite some supportive pharmacological findings.

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