Evidence supporting the use of: Phellodendron amurense
For the health condition: Bladder Infection

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Synopsis

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

Phellodendron amurense, commonly known as Amur cork tree, has a long history of use in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), where its bark (referred to as "Huang Bai") is employed for its purported "clearing heat" and "dampness" properties. In traditional practice, it is used to address conditions such as urinary tract infections (UTIs), including bladder infection (cystitis), often in combination with other herbs such as Coptis chinensis (Huang Lian) and Gardenia jasminoides (Zhi Zi). The rationale stems from TCM theory, not modern biomedical understanding; TCM practitioners believe that Huang Bai helps to relieve symptoms associated with "damp-heat" in the lower burner, which includes the bladder.

Scientific studies have identified that Phellodendron bark contains active compounds such as berberine, which possesses antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. Berberine has shown in vitro activity against a range of bacterial pathogens, including Escherichia coli, a common cause of UTIs. However, clinical studies specifically evaluating Phellodendron amurense or its extracts for the treatment of bladder infections in humans are lacking. Most available evidence comes from laboratory and animal studies, or from research on berberine-containing plants in general, not Phellodendron alone.

In summary, while there is a strong traditional basis and some plausible pharmacological mechanism (due to berberine content), robust clinical evidence supporting its efficacy for bladder infections is limited. Thus, its use for this condition is justified primarily by tradition, with a modest evidence rating.

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