Evidence supporting the use of: Honeysuckle
For the health condition: Bites and Stings

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Synopsis

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

Honeysuckle (Lonicera japonica) has been used in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) for centuries to address a variety of inflammatory conditions, including bites and stings. In TCM, honeysuckle is considered to have "heat-clearing" and "detoxifying" properties, which is why it is often included in herbal formulas intended to reduce swelling, redness, and discomfort following insect bites or minor skin irritations. Classical texts and materia medica often recommend honeysuckle for external application as a wash or poultice, as well as for internal use in decoctions when addressing skin issues accompanied by signs of "heat" or infection.

However, modern scientific validation specifically for honeysuckle’s efficacy in treating bites and stings is limited. While laboratory studies have demonstrated that honeysuckle extracts possess anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, direct clinical evidence or controlled studies substantiating its use for bites and stings remain scarce. As a result, its use for this purpose is primarily justified by traditional practices rather than robust scientific research. The evidence rating is therefore low, reflecting the predominance of historical rather than clinical support.

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