Evidence supporting the use of: Smilax sieboldii
For the health condition: Gout

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Synopsis

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

Smilax sieboldii, commonly known as Japanese sarsaparilla, has a history of use in traditional East Asian medicine, including Chinese and Korean herbal practices. It has been employed for its purported anti-inflammatory and detoxifying effects, which are believed to be beneficial in the management of gout—a condition characterized by the accumulation of uric acid and joint inflammation. Historical texts and ethnobotanical records often cite Smilax species as remedies for musculoskeletal complaints, including gout, rheumatism, and arthritis. The rationale in traditional medicine is typically based on the herb’s perceived ability to "clear dampness" and "eliminate toxins" from the body.

However, scientific validation for these effects is limited. While some preliminary laboratory studies suggest that extracts from Smilax sieboldii possess general anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities, direct evidence supporting its efficacy specifically for gout—such as human clinical trials or robust animal studies targeting uric acid metabolism or gouty inflammation—is lacking. The traditional use is therefore not strongly underpinned by contemporary biomedical research, and its role in gout management remains primarily justified by historical and cultural practice rather than scientific consensus.

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