Synopsis

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

Akebia (Akebia quinata), known as "Mu Tong" in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), has a long history of use for urinary issues, including promoting urination and treating conditions like dysuria (painful urination), urinary dribbling, and sometimes frequent urination. In TCM, Akebia is considered to have a diuretic effect and is included in formulas to "clear heat" and "drain dampness" from the urinary tract. Classical texts such as the "Shennong Bencao Jing" and "Compendium of Materia Medica" describe its use for promoting the flow of urine and relieving edema.

However, there is limited modern scientific research directly supporting Akebia’s efficacy or safety specifically for treating frequent urination. Most contemporary studies focus on its diuretic effects in animal models or cell cultures, rather than well-designed human clinical trials. Thus, while there is some experimental evidence for a general diuretic effect, high-quality clinical evidence for its use in frequent urination is lacking. The practice remains primarily rooted in tradition, with anecdotal support and historical precedent rather than robust scientific validation.

In summary, Akebia’s use for supporting urination (including frequent urination) is justified by traditional use in Chinese medicine, but the scientific evidence base is limited, meriting a low to moderate evidence rating.

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