Synopsis

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

Bupleurum, a genus of herbs used in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), has a long history of use for harmonizing the liver and alleviating symptoms attributed to emotional distress, which in TCM theory often includes manifestations like anxiety, irritability, and mood swings. The most famous formula containing Bupleurum is "Xiao Yao San" (Free and Easy Wanderer), which is commonly prescribed for what is described as "Liver Qi stagnation"—a syndrome that often overlaps with contemporary concepts of stress and mild anxiety. Several clinical studies from China and reviews of TCM literature cite Bupleurum-containing formulas as popular for supporting emotional balance, though the quality of this evidence is often limited by methodological weaknesses and lack of rigorous, well-controlled trials conforming to Western scientific standards. Pharmacologically, Bupleurum contains compounds such as saikosaponins, which have shown some neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory effects in preclinical studies. However, direct evidence from high-quality clinical studies specifically supporting Bupleurum or its extracts as a treatment for anxiety in humans is sparse. Most of the justification for its use in anxiety is based on historical and traditional practice rather than robust scientific validation. As such, Bupleurum's use for anxiety should be viewed primarily through the lens of traditional medicine rather than evidence-based Western medicine.

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