Evidence supporting the use of: Phellodendron Bark
For the health condition: Kidney Infection

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Synopsis

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

Phellodendron bark, known as "Huang Bai" in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), has a long history of use in East Asian herbal practices. It is traditionally employed to "clear heat" and "drain dampness," which in TCM theory corresponds to treating symptoms associated with urinary tract infections, including kidney infections (pyelonephritis). Historical TCM texts often include Phellodendron bark in formulas designed to address urinary discomfort, frequent urination, and other lower urinary tract symptoms, which sometimes overlap with symptoms of kidney infection.

From a scientific perspective, Phellodendron bark contains alkaloids such as berberine, which have demonstrated antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties in vitro and in animal studies. However, there is limited direct clinical evidence supporting its use specifically for kidney infections in humans. No high-quality randomized controlled trials have established its effectiveness or safety for this indication. Most studies focus on related conditions (e.g., general urinary tract infections or inflammation) or the pharmacological effects of its constituents, rather than on kidney infections per se.

In summary, the use of Phellodendron bark for kidney infections is primarily rooted in traditional medicine, with some supportive pharmacological data but insufficient clinical evidence. Thus, it cannot be recommended as a primary treatment for kidney infections in place of standard medical care.

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