Synopsis

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

Bitter Grass, commonly referring to species such as Vernonia amygdalina (also known as bitter leaf), has been traditionally used in various African and Asian cultures for the management of gastrointestinal ailments, including diarrhea and, by extension, cholera. The traditional use is primarily based on anecdotal reports and ethnobotanical records, where decoctions or infusions of the plant are administered to people suffering from symptoms of cholera, such as severe diarrhea and dehydration. The underlying rationale is often attributed to the plant's reputed antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antidiarrheal properties.

However, scientific evidence supporting its use specifically for cholera (infection with Vibrio cholerae) is extremely limited. While some laboratory studies have demonstrated that extracts of Vernonia amygdalina possess broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity and may reduce the duration and severity of diarrhea in animal models, there is no robust clinical data or controlled human trials validating its efficacy against cholera specifically. Most available literature highlights its traditional role in folk medicine rather than providing direct scientific validation for cholera treatment.

In summary, the use of Bitter Grass for cholera is justified by tradition, with very weak evidence (rated 1/5) and no clinical consensus or regulatory endorsement for this indication.

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