Synopsis

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

Ashitaba (Angelica keiskei) is a plant native to Japan, traditionally consumed for its purported health benefits. In Japanese folk medicine, ashitaba has been used as a general tonic, believed to support various aspects of health, including liver function. The liver-protective reputation stems primarily from its use in traditional herbal practices, where the plant’s leaves and stems are consumed as a vegetable or tea. However, historical texts and ethnobotanical surveys show that while ashitaba is valued for its overall "rejuvenating" properties, explicit and consistent reference to liver support is limited compared to other herbs like milk thistle. There is some preliminary scientific interest in ashitaba’s bioactive compounds, particularly chalcones such as 4-hydroxyderricin and xanthoangelol, which have demonstrated antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties in vitro and in animal studies. A few animal studies suggest potential hepatoprotective effects, but these results are not yet substantiated in human clinical trials. Thus, while there is emerging scientific curiosity, the use of ashitaba for liver support is still primarily justified by tradition, rather than robust scientific validation. More research is needed to confirm its efficacy and safety for liver health in humans.

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