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

Links: Go back one page, Tool main page, Ingredients list, Health conditions list, Body systems list

Synopsis

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

Snakeroot is a common name that can refer to several different plants, including Rauwolfia serpentina (Indian snakeroot), Aristolochia serpentaria (Virginia snakeroot), and Eupatorium rugosum (white snakeroot). Traditionally, some snakeroot species have been used by various cultures to address skin infections and wounds. For example, Native American herbalists used Virginia snakeroot (Aristolochia serpentaria) in poultices to treat snake bites, sores, and other skin ailments. Similarly, in Ayurveda, Indian snakeroot (Rauwolfia serpentina) has been applied topically for snakebites and skin disorders, although its primary use was for cardiovascular and neurological conditions.

Despite these traditional applications, there is little robust scientific evidence supporting the efficacy or safety of snakeroot for treating skin infections. Most of the available literature documents historical or ethnobotanical uses rather than results from clinical trials or pharmacological studies. Some snakeroot species can be toxic if misused, particularly Aristolochia species, which contain aristolochic acids with known nephrotoxic and carcinogenic properties. In summary, snakeroot's use for skin infections is primarily rooted in traditional medicine, with a low level of supporting evidence and potential safety concerns for some species.

More about Snakeroot (unspecified)
More about Skin (infections)

Products containing Snakeroot (unspecified)

We currently have no products on Vitabase that contain this ingredient.