Synopsis

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

Artemisia species, particularly Artemisia capillaris (Yin Chen Hao) and Artemisia scoparia, have a long history of use in traditional medicine systems, especially in Chinese and other East Asian practices, for liver-related ailments including hepatitis. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), these herbs are often included in formulas intended to "clear heat" and "eliminate dampness" from the liver and gallbladder, which are conceptualized as underlying factors in hepatitis and jaundice. Historical texts and pharmacopeias describe their use in hepatitis, liver inflammation, and jaundice, often in combination with other herbs.

Modern pharmacological research on Artemisia species has identified certain compounds, such as scoparone, with hepatoprotective and anti-inflammatory effects in animal models and in vitro studies. Some small-scale clinical trials and case reports from China suggest potential benefits in improving liver function markers in patients with hepatitis, but these studies are generally of low methodological quality, lack appropriate controls, or use herbal combinations rather than Artemisia alone. There is insufficient high-quality clinical evidence to conclusively validate Artemisia’s efficacy for treating hepatitis in humans.

In summary, Artemisia’s use in hepatitis is primarily justified by traditional practices, with limited and low-quality scientific evidence to support its effectiveness. It remains a component of traditional herbal formulas for liver conditions, but more rigorous clinical trials are needed.

More about Artemisia (unspecified)
More about Hepatitis

Other ingredients used for Hepatitis

Other health conditions supported by Artemisia (unspecified)

Products containing Artemisia (unspecified)