Ligustrum, particularly Ligustrum lucidum (commonly known as glossy privet), has a long history of use in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for liver-related ailments, including hepatitis. In TCM, Ligustrum is believed to "nourish the liver and kidney," and is often included in herbal formulas intended to address symptoms associated with liver dysfunction. The traditional rationale is that Ligustrum possesses properties that help to restore balance and improve vitality, which indirectly supports liver health.

From a scientific standpoint, the evidence supporting Ligustrum’s effectiveness in treating hepatitis is limited and primarily based on in vitro or animal studies. Some research has identified antioxidant and hepatoprotective compounds (such as oleanolic acid and various polysaccharides) within Ligustrum extracts, which may offer some protective effects against chemically induced liver injury in animal models. However, robust clinical trials in humans with hepatitis are lacking, and there is insufficient data to conclusively validate its efficacy or safety for this specific condition in humans.

In summary, Ligustrum is primarily used for hepatitis based on traditional practices rather than strong scientific evidence. The supporting evidence from modern research is weak and preliminary, and healthcare providers generally do not recommend it as a stand-alone treatment for hepatitis.