Synopsis

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

Siler root (Saposhnikovia divaricata, also known as Fang Feng in Traditional Chinese Medicine) is primarily justified for use in enteritis by traditional rather than scientific evidence. In TCM, siler root is valued for its purported ability to "expel wind" and "alleviate dampness," and is commonly included in herbal formulas intended to treat gastrointestinal disorders such as diarrhea and enteritis. Its traditional use is documented in classical texts like the Shennong Bencao Jing and subsequent materia medica, where it is recommended for symptoms consistent with enteritis, such as abdominal pain, loose stools, and intestinal dysregulation.

However, scientific evidence supporting siler root's efficacy in treating enteritis is limited. Some in vitro and animal studies suggest that extracts from Saposhnikovia divaricata may have anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, but these findings have not been robustly translated into clinical trials specific to enteritis or related conditions in humans. The herb’s primary active compounds, such as chromones (notably prim-O-glucosylcimifugin), show some gastrointestinal protective activity in preclinical models, but direct evidence for efficacy in human enteritis is lacking.

In summary, siler root’s use for enteritis is rooted in long-established traditional practices, with only preliminary scientific indications of anti-inflammatory potential. Its evidence rating for this indication would be considered low to moderate, reflecting the gap between traditional use and modern clinical validation.

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