Synopsis

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

Sophora flavescens, known as Kushen in traditional Chinese medicine, has been used for centuries in East Asia for its purported anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects. It is commonly included in herbal formulations for treating various skin and mucosal diseases, including canker sores (aphthous ulcers). The rationale for its use is primarily based on traditional medical texts, which describe its ability to "clear heat" and "dry dampness," concepts believed to correlate to reducing inflammation and infection in TCM theory. Contemporary scientific studies on Sophora flavescens focus mostly on its general anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, with a few in vitro and animal studies supporting these actions. However, direct clinical evidence specifically evaluating Sophora flavescens for canker sores in humans is limited and of low quality. Most modern clinical use for canker sores relies on its inclusion as part of multi-herb formulas rather than as a single agent. In summary, its use for canker sores is justified by long-standing traditional practice, with some indirect pharmacological rationale, but lacks robust, high-quality clinical trials to firmly support its efficacy for this specific condition.

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