Evidence supporting the use of: Horn
For the health condition: Rashes and Hives

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Synopsis

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

The use of "horn"—specifically animal horn, such as buffalo horn or rhinoceros horn—in the treatment of rashes and hives is primarily rooted in traditional medicine, especially Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). In TCM, horn shavings or decoctions have historically been used to "clear heat" and "cool the blood," which are believed to contribute to skin eruptions like rashes and urticaria (hives). The most well-known is rhinoceros horn, but due to conservation laws and ethical concerns, water buffalo horn is now more commonly used as a substitute in herbal formulas.

Despite a long history of use in TCM, there is little to no modern scientific evidence supporting the efficacy of horn for treating rashes or hives. Published research is extremely limited, and studies that do exist are often of poor methodological quality or anecdotal in nature. No randomized, placebo-controlled trials have validated the use of animal horn for these skin conditions. Furthermore, the purported mechanisms (such as "clearing heat") do not align with biomedical understanding of allergic or inflammatory skin conditions.

In summary, the use of horn for rashes and hives is based on historical and traditional practices rather than scientific validation. Ethical, conservation, and safety concerns further complicate its use in modern contexts.

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