Evidence supporting the use of: Black Hellebore
For the health condition: Influenza

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Synopsis

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

Black Hellebore (Helleborus niger) has a long history of use in traditional European herbal medicine, dating back to ancient Greece and Rome. Historical texts indicate that it was regarded as a potent remedy for various illnesses, particularly for its purgative and emetic properties. The use of Black Hellebore for treating influenza specifically is rooted in traditional practices, where the herb was sometimes employed in the management of febrile illnesses and respiratory complaints. However, these applications were often based on the doctrine of signatures and the general belief in the plant's ability to "purge" disease from the body, rather than on any understanding of viral infections or specific antiviral effects. There is little to no modern scientific evidence supporting the efficacy of Black Hellebore in treating influenza. In fact, contemporary research highlights the toxic nature of the plant, which contains glycosides such as helleborin and helleborein that can cause serious cardiac and gastrointestinal side effects. Modern herbalists and clinicians do not recommend Black Hellebore for influenza due to its toxicity and lack of proven benefit. The historical use of this plant for influenza reflects primarily traditional beliefs rather than validated clinical outcomes. As such, its use today is considered unsafe and unsupported by scientific research.

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