Evidence supporting the use of: Houttuynia
For the health condition: Skin (infections)

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Synopsis

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

Houttuynia cordata, commonly known as fish mint or "dokudami," has a long history of use in traditional medicine systems in East Asia, particularly in China, Japan, and Korea. Its use for skin infections is primarily based on traditional herbal practice rather than robust modern scientific validation. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Houttuynia is believed to "clear heat and detoxify," and is used both internally and externally for various skin conditions, including abscesses, boils, and ulcers. Preparations such as poultices or topical washes are traditional applications for infected or inflamed skin.

Modern pharmacological studies have identified that Houttuynia contains compounds such as flavonoids, polysaccharides, and volatile oils with demonstrated antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects in vitro. Some laboratory research supports its inhibitory effects against Staphylococcus aureus and other bacteria commonly associated with skin infections. However, clinical studies in humans are very limited, and there is insufficient high-quality evidence to conclusively validate its effectiveness for treating skin infections.

In summary, while there is a traditional basis and some promising laboratory evidence for the use of Houttuynia in managing skin infections, the current level of scientific evidence supporting its clinical efficacy remains modest. Most of its use for this indication is justified by tradition rather than rigorous clinical validation.

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