Sophora flavescens, commonly known as Ku Shen, is a traditional Chinese medicinal herb with a history of use for skin conditions, including dermatitis. Modern scientific studies provide some support for its efficacy, particularly due to its active compounds such as matrine and oxymatrine. These alkaloids have demonstrated anti-inflammatory, anti-allergic, and antimicrobial properties in both in vitro and in vivo models.

Several preclinical studies report that extracts of Sophora flavescens can inhibit inflammatory mediators like TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β, which are known to play roles in the pathogenesis of dermatitis. Additionally, some small clinical trials and animal models have shown improvements in atopic dermatitis symptoms, including reduced erythema, edema, and pruritus, following topical or oral administration of Sophora flavescens extracts.

While the evidence is not yet robust—larger, high-quality clinical trials are still lacking—the available data suggest a plausible scientific basis for the use of Sophora flavescens in supporting the treatment of dermatitis. Its mechanisms appear to involve the inhibition of inflammatory pathways and modulation of immune responses, supporting traditional claims with a growing scientific foundation.