Evidence supporting the use of: Viscum coloratum
For the health condition: Infection (viral)

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Synopsis

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

Viscum coloratum, a species of mistletoe, has been traditionally used in East Asian medicine, particularly in China and Korea, for various ailments including infections and inflammation. Historical texts such as the Compendium of Materia Medica (Bencao Gangmu) and other traditional pharmacopeias mention its use for "dispelling wind-dampness," "removing obstruction from the channels," and "strengthening bones and tendons," as well as for certain types of febrile diseases, which sometimes are associated with viral infections. However, explicit references to antiviral use are limited in the classical literature, and the application is more general to infectious or inflammatory conditions.

Modern scientific studies on Viscum coloratum have focused primarily on its immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, and anti-tumor properties. There are a few in vitro studies indicating that extracts from this plant possess some level of antiviral activity against certain viruses, but the evidence is preliminary and not robust. No major clinical trials or in-depth pharmacological studies have validated its efficacy specifically for viral infections in humans. Thus, the use of Viscum coloratum for viral infections is primarily justified by traditional usage, with only limited and low-level scientific support.

In summary, Viscum coloratum is traditionally used for infectious conditions in East Asian medicine, but scientific evidence supporting its specific antiviral effects is weak and not yet conclusive.

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