Boerhavia diffusa (commonly known as "Punarnava") has a long history of traditional use in Ayurveda and other traditional medicine systems for the management of edema (fluid retention). Its use as a diuretic is well-documented in classical Ayurvedic texts, where it is described as a remedy for "shotha" (swelling or edema).

Scientific studies have validated some of these traditional claims. Experimental research, primarily in animal models, has demonstrated that extracts of Boerhavia diffusa possess significant diuretic activity. For example, studies published in peer-reviewed journals have shown that both aqueous and alcoholic extracts of the plant increase urine output and promote the excretion of sodium and potassium, effects similar to those of conventional diuretic drugs. The plant is believed to exert its action through multiple phytochemicals, including alkaloids (like punarnavine), flavonoids, and lignans.

While the preclinical evidence is promising and supports its use for edema, there is a lack of robust clinical trials in humans to firmly establish efficacy and safety for this indication. Thus, while the scientific validation is moderate and largely based on animal studies and traditional knowledge, it is not yet equivalent to evidence from large-scale human clinical trials.