Evidence supporting the use of: Spatholobus
For the health condition: Sprains
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2
Spatholobus, particularly Spatholobus suberectus (commonly known as Ji Xue Teng in Traditional Chinese Medicine), has a long-standing traditional use in the management of sprains and traumatic injuries. In TCM, it is classified as an herb that "invigorates the blood" and "dispels stasis," which refers to its use in conditions involving pain, swelling, and restricted movement—common features of sprains. Ancient texts and modern TCM practice both cite Spatholobus as an ingredient in herbal formulas aimed at promoting circulation, reducing bruising, and assisting in the recovery from musculoskeletal injuries. Scientific research on Spatholobus is limited, particularly for its direct effects on sprains in humans. Some laboratory and animal studies have demonstrated anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and vasodilatory properties of extracts from Spatholobus stems, which could theoretically contribute to reducing inflammation and aiding tissue repair. For example, studies report that certain flavonoids and polyphenols present in Spatholobus may inhibit inflammatory mediators and support microcirculation. However, these findings are preliminary and do not directly translate to proven efficacy for sprain treatment in clinical settings. In summary, the use of Spatholobus for sprains is primarily justified by traditional use, with some weak supporting scientific rationale based on its phytochemical properties. High-quality human clinical trials are lacking, so evidence supporting its effectiveness for sprains is modest at best.
Other ingredients used for Sprains
Abies spectabilisAchyranthes
Actaea spicata
Aescin
Allspice
Alstonia macrophylla
Anemone
arnica
aspen
bai ji
barbary matrimony vine
big quaking grass
black poplar
bogbean
Brassaiopsis glomerulata
bromelain
camphor oil
chymotrypsin
Cissus quadrangularis
clematis
collagen
Collinsonia
cypress
Dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO)
Dipsacus
Drynaria
endo-peptidase
enzyme blend
fibrinase
giant trillium
Glycosaminoglycans
hairy arnica
Harpagoside
horsetail
joe-pye
Malay bush
Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM)
Mucopolysaccharide
Salicin
serratiopeptidase
Sida cordifolia
Sinapis arvensis
solomon's seal
Spatholobus
Stone Root
Sweet Clover
Trypsin
turmeric
vitamin C
white willow
Willow
Wintergreen
Zingibain
Other health conditions supported by Spatholobus
ArthritisBruises (healing)
Bruises (prevention)
Circulation (poor)
Edema
Inflammation
Pain (general remedies for)
Sprains
Wounds and Sores
