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

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Synopsis

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

Knotgrass is a common name that generally refers to Polygonum aviculare, a plant widely used in traditional medicine systems, particularly in Europe and Asia. Its use for skin infections is primarily rooted in folk medicine, where it has been applied topically or consumed as a tea for its purported anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. Historical records from European herbal texts and traditional Chinese medicine mention knotgrass as an ingredient for healing wounds, soothing skin irritations, and reducing swelling or redness associated with minor skin infections. The mechanisms proposed in these traditions often cite the plant’s astringent tannins and bioactive flavonoids, believed to help “dry out” wounds and inhibit the growth of certain bacteria on the skin.

Scientific validation for these uses is limited. A handful of in vitro studies suggest that extracts from Polygonum aviculare possess modest antibacterial and antioxidant activities, but these studies are preliminary and often not specific to skin pathogens or direct clinical application. There are no robust clinical trials in humans that confirm the efficacy of knotgrass in treating or preventing skin infections. Therefore, while the traditional use is well-documented and there is some biological plausibility, the overall quality of evidence remains low, supporting a score of 2 out of 5.

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