Synopsis

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

Liverwort (Marchantia polymorpha and related species) has been used in traditional herbal medicine for various skin conditions, including eczema. The historical use is largely rooted in the "Doctrine of Signatures" from medieval Europe, where the liver-shaped appearance of liverworts led to their use in treating liver ailments, and by extension, skin diseases believed to be connected to the liver. In some folk traditions, poultices or topical preparations of liverwort were applied to irritated or inflamed skin, including conditions resembling eczema.

However, there is very limited scientific research directly supporting the use of liverwort for eczema. Modern phytochemical studies have identified some bioactive compounds in liverworts, such as bibenzyls and terpenoids, which may have anti-inflammatory or antimicrobial properties in vitro. Despite this, there are no robust clinical trials or substantial pharmacological studies demonstrating efficacy or safety for eczema treatment in humans. The evidence for its use is therefore primarily anecdotal and based on traditional practices rather than scientific validation.

In summary, while liverwort has a historical presence in traditional medicine for skin issues, including eczema, its use for this purpose is not substantiated by modern clinical evidence, and its safety profile remains unclear.

More about Liverwort
More about Eczema

Other ingredients used for Eczema

Other health conditions supported by Liverwort

Products containing Liverwort