Evidence supporting the use of: Lomatium dissectum
For the health condition: Cold Sores

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Synopsis

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

Lomatium dissectum, commonly known as fernleaf biscuitroot, has a history of use in traditional Native American herbal medicine for various respiratory and viral ailments. Its use for cold sores (herpes simplex virus) is primarily based on this traditional context, where Lomatium was valued for its perceived antiviral properties and was sometimes applied topically or taken internally for viral infections. However, direct documentation tying Lomatium dissectum specifically to the treatment of cold sores is sparse; most references cite its broader use for viral or respiratory conditions.

From a scientific standpoint, there are very limited studies investigating Lomatium dissectum’s effectiveness against herpes simplex virus (HSV), the causative agent of cold sores. Some in vitro research has suggested that extracts of Lomatium species may exhibit general antiviral activity, but these findings have not been robustly reproduced, nor have they been tested in clinical settings for HSV. There are no published human trials or strong preclinical studies confirming its efficacy for cold sores.

In summary, the use of Lomatium dissectum for cold sores is rooted mainly in traditional herbal practice, with minimal and indirect support from scientific research. The strength of evidence supporting its use for this specific condition is thus quite low.

More about Lomatium dissectum
More about Cold Sores

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