Evidence supporting the use of: Rumex acetosa
For the health condition: Urinary Tract Infections

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1

Rumex acetosa (common sorrel) has a history of use in traditional herbal medicine, including European folk medicine, for various conditions, among them urinary tract health and infections. Historical texts and ethnobotanical surveys mention sorrel as a diuretic and 'blood purifier,' which may have indirectly contributed to its use for urinary complaints. The rationale is that increasing urine flow could help flush bacteria from the urinary tract. However, there is very limited historical detail specifically linking sorrel to urinary tract infections (UTIs), and such references are generally anecdotal or based on the plant’s broader traditional use for “kidney” or “urinary” issues.

There is a lack of robust scientific studies directly investigating Rumex acetosa for the prevention or treatment of UTIs. No substantial clinical trials or in vitro studies specifically demonstrate its antimicrobial activity against urinary pathogens. Its traditional use as a mild diuretic is somewhat documented, but this does not equate to proven efficacy in treating UTIs. As such, while the use of Rumex acetosa for UTIs is rooted primarily in tradition, the evidence supporting its effectiveness is weak (rated 1/5), and it should not be considered a substitute for evidence-based treatments for UTIs.

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Products containing Rumex acetosa

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