Evidence supporting the use of: Usnea
For the health condition: Tuberculosis

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Synopsis

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

Usnea, also known as "old man's beard," is a lichen traditionally used in folk medicine for its purported antimicrobial and respiratory benefits. Its historical use in the support and treatment of tuberculosis (TB) is rooted in various traditional medicine systems, particularly in Europe and Asia. The rationale for its use stems from usnic acid, a key compound in Usnea, which has demonstrated in vitro antibacterial activity, including some activity against Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the causative agent of TB. However, the evidence supporting its efficacy in treating TB in humans is extremely limited and primarily anecdotal.

Few, if any, clinical trials have evaluated Usnea's efficacy or safety in TB patients. Most of the available evidence consists of historical reports or preclinical studies examining the antimicrobial properties of its extracts in laboratory settings. While these studies suggest some antimicrobial potential, they do not translate directly into clinical effectiveness for TB, a complex disease requiring multi-drug therapy. As such, while Usnea's use against tuberculosis is justified by tradition and supported by some in vitro data, robust scientific validation is lacking, and modern medical guidelines do not recommend Usnea as a treatment for TB.

In summary, Usnea’s use in tuberculosis is primarily traditional, with very limited scientific support that does not meet modern standards for clinical efficacy or safety.

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Products containing Usnea

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