Synopsis

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

Butternut (Juglans cinerea), also known as white walnut, has a history of use in traditional herbal medicine, particularly among Native American and early European settlers in North America. It has primarily been used as a gentle laxative and for its purported effects on the digestive tract. Historical records indicate that the inner bark of the butternut tree was prepared as a decoction or tincture for digestive complaints, including constipation and sometimes for conditions that may overlap with inflammatory bowel disorders (IBD), such as colitis or chronic diarrhea. However, there are no well-conducted clinical trials or robust scientific studies supporting its efficacy specifically for IBD (such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis). The available evidence is limited to anecdotal reports and traditional use, with some early texts suggesting a mild anti-inflammatory effect in the gut, likely related to its laxative action. Modern herbal references may mention butternut, but usually with caveats about the lack of scientific validation. Thus, its use for IBD is justified by tradition rather than scientific evidence, and the overall quality of supporting evidence is very low.

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