Evidence supporting the use of: Silkmoth
For the health condition: Skin (infections)
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2
Silkmoth (specifically the dried body of the silkworm, known as Bombyx mori, or its processed form called Bai Jiang Can in Traditional Chinese Medicine) has been used historically in East Asian medicine for various skin conditions, including skin infections, eczema, and itching. The use is rooted in traditional practice, where silkmoth is believed to "dispel wind," "resolve phlegm," and "unblock the channels," which are conceptual frameworks in Chinese medicine for addressing skin eruptions and swellings. Classic herbal texts and modern Chinese pharmacopeias list silkmoth as a remedy for skin problems such as rashes, urticaria, and even carbuncles, attributing its effects to antispasmodic, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial actions as understood in traditional terms.
However, the scientific evidence supporting these applications is limited. Some laboratory studies have identified bioactive peptides and enzymes in silkworm powder/extracts with mild antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects, but these studies are preliminary and often not conducted in humans. There is no substantial clinical trial data to validate its efficacy or safety in treating human skin infections. Thus, while its use for skin conditions is well-documented traditionally, robust scientific validation is lacking, and its use should be considered in this context.
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