Rubia yunnanensis, commonly known as Yunnan madder, is used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), primarily for its blood-activating and stasis-resolving properties. Historically, the root of Rubia yunnanensis has been prescribed to promote blood circulation, remove blood stasis, and alleviate pain. Uterine fibroids (leiomyomas) are seen in TCM as a manifestation of blood stasis and Qi stagnation, and thus herbs like Rubia yunnanensis are included in formulas intended to “break up” stasis and reduce masses.

While there are scattered historical records and modern TCM texts that mention the use of Rubia yunnanensis in gynecological formulas for masses or fibroids, robust scientific evidence to support its effectiveness is lacking. Most modern evidence consists of preclinical studies (such as in vitro or animal research) on related species (e.g., Rubia cordifolia) or on the broader class of stasis-resolving herbs, rather than on Rubia yunnanensis itself or in well-designed clinical trials for uterine fibroids.

In summary, the use of Rubia yunnanensis for uterine fibroids is primarily justified by traditional practice rather than by scientific validation. The evidence is rated 2/5, as there is some traditional use and limited indirect scientific rationale, but little to no direct clinical evidence for its efficacy in treating fibroids.