Synopsis

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

Hedyotis diffusa (commonly known as Oldenlandia diffusa or “Bai Hua She She Cao” in Traditional Chinese Medicine) is traditionally used for various inflammatory and infectious conditions, including skin problems such as acne. Its use for acne is primarily rooted in traditional medicine, where it is believed to "clear heat and toxins," which are considered common causes of acne in TCM theory. There are a few small-scale studies and in vitro experiments demonstrating that extracts of Hedyotis diffusa possess anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, which could, in theory, be beneficial for acne. However, robust clinical evidence in the form of randomized controlled trials in humans specifically targeting acne is lacking. Most of the support for its use in acne comes from traditional herbal formulations and anecdotal clinical practice in East Asia. Thus, while there is a plausible rationale and some preliminary scientific support, the evidence base is weak and primarily traditional at this time.

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