Synopsis

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

Baphicacanthus cusia, also known as Strobilanthes cusia or “Qing Dai” in traditional Chinese medicine, has a long history of use for various inflammatory skin conditions, including dermatitis. In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), Qing Dai is often prescribed either topically or orally to manage symptoms of eczema, psoriasis, and other dermatitis presentations. Its purported mechanisms of action in TCM involve “clearing heat” and “detoxifying,” which conceptually align with the reduction of inflammation and irritation seen in dermatitis.

Scientific studies investigating Baphicacanthus cusia for dermatitis are limited. Some in vitro and animal studies indicate that extracts of Qing Dai may have anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties, and the indigo naturalis component (derived from the same plant) has been studied more extensively, showing some efficacy in small clinical studies for psoriasis and atopic dermatitis. However, high-quality, large-scale clinical trials specifically focusing on Baphicacanthus cusia itself are lacking. Thus, although its traditional use is well-documented and there are plausible bioactive compounds, robust scientific validation is currently insufficient.

In summary, Baphicacanthus cusia’s use for dermatitis is primarily justified by tradition, with a moderate amount of preliminary scientific evidence (mostly indirect or from related compounds) supporting its potential benefit.

More about Baphicacanthus cusia
More about Dermatitis

Other ingredients used for Dermatitis

Other health conditions supported by Baphicacanthus cusia

Products containing Baphicacanthus cusia