Evidence supporting the use of: Dong quai root
For the health condition: Urinary Tract Infections

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Synopsis

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

Dong quai (Angelica sinensis) is a traditional Chinese medicinal herb most commonly used for gynecological conditions, such as menstrual cramps and menopausal symptoms. Its use for urinary tract infections (UTIs) is primarily supported by tradition rather than rigorous scientific evidence. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), dong quai is sometimes included in herbal formulas aimed at supporting the urinary tract or addressing symptoms that may overlap with UTIs, but it is not a primary or specific remedy for infections of the urinary tract. The rationale in TCM often involves its purported ability to improve blood circulation and "harmonize" bodily functions, which may indirectly support recovery or resilience, but this is not the same as having direct antimicrobial or anti-inflammatory effects against UTI-causing pathogens. Scientific validation for dong quai as a treatment for UTIs is lacking; there are no well-conducted clinical trials demonstrating its efficacy for this condition, and research on its antibacterial properties is limited and not specific to UTI pathogens. Therefore, while dong quai may be included in traditional herbal blends, its use for UTIs should be regarded with caution, and it should not replace evidence-based therapies such as antibiotics when a bacterial infection is present.

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