Evidence supporting the use of: Spanish Needle
For the health condition: Labor and Delivery

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Synopsis

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

Spanish Needle (Bidens pilosa) has a long history of use in traditional medicine across various cultures, including Africa, Asia, and the Caribbean. In some African and Caribbean traditional medicine systems, decoctions or infusions of Spanish Needle leaves or aerial parts have been administered to support women during labor and delivery. The plant is believed to promote uterine contractions and facilitate childbirth, although the specifics of its use (such as dosage and method of administration) vary regionally and are primarily based on oral tradition rather than standardized protocols.

Scientific evidence, however, is extremely limited. While some laboratory studies have explored the pharmacological properties of Bidens pilosa (such as anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant effects), there is virtually no published clinical research directly examining its safety or efficacy for labor induction or support. No randomized controlled trials or systematic reviews have validated its use in obstetrics. As such, reliance on Spanish Needle for labor and delivery remains grounded in ethnobotanical tradition, with an evidence rating of 1, reflecting anecdotal and historical use but without rigorous scientific validation. Caution is advised due to the lack of safety data, especially in pregnant women.

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