Synopsis

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

Hyacinth bean (Lablab purpureus) has a history of use in traditional medicine, particularly within systems like Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and Ayurveda. In TCM, hyacinth bean—known as Bai Bian Dou—is primarily used to strengthen the spleen, clear summer heat, and address digestive disturbances such as diarrhea and poor appetite. Although some traditional practices may use hyacinth bean in formulas aimed at improving general digestive function, there is limited specific reference to its use for treating constipation in authoritative herbal texts. The bean is valued more for its anti-diarrheal and digestive tonic properties than as a laxative.

From a scientific perspective, there is a lack of robust clinical evidence or mechanistic studies directly supporting the use of hyacinth bean for relieving constipation in adults. No significant human clinical trials, pharmacological studies, or regulatory monographs (such as those by the World Health Organization or ESCOP) currently validate its use for this purpose. Most available literature focuses on its nutritional value, potential anti-inflammatory or antioxidant properties, and general effects on digestion.

In summary, the use of hyacinth bean for constipation is based more on traditional applications for improving digestive health rather than as a specific remedy for constipation. The supporting evidence is weak, and its use for this indication should be considered with caution until more scientific data becomes available.

More about hyacinth bean
More about Constipation (adults)

Other ingredients used for Constipation (adults)

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Products containing hyacinth bean

Nature's Sunshine Chinese TCM Negative Pack
Nature's Sunshine Spleen Activator (Chinese)
Nature's Sunshine Spleen Activator TCM