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

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1

Phellodendron amurense, commonly known as Amur cork tree, has a long history of use in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). One of its primary components, berberine, is recognized for broad-spectrum antimicrobial properties. In TCM, the bark (known as "Huang Bai") has been used for centuries to treat various "damp-heat" conditions, including infections of the urinary and reproductive tracts. Historical records, such as those found in the "Shennong Bencao Jing," note its use for conditions characterized by genital discharge, which could include gonorrhea or similar symptoms.

However, there is minimal modern scientific evidence specifically supporting Phellodendron amurense for the treatment of gonorrhea. While berberine has demonstrated some antibacterial activity against Neisseria gonorrhoeae in in vitro studies, these effects are moderate and have not translated into clinical guidelines or robust human trials. The use of Phellodendron for gonorrhea remains rooted in its traditional application, rather than current scientific validation. Thus, while the tradition is well-documented, scientific evidence for efficacy in treating gonorrhea is weak, meriting a low evidence rating.

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