Synopsis

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

Arisaema species (commonly known as "Jack-in-the-pulpit," "cobra lily," or "天南星 [Tiannanxing]" in traditional Chinese medicine) have a long history of use in various Asian medical systems. In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), the dried tuber of Arisaema (often processed and known as "Arisaema cum Bile" or "Arisaema erubescens") is used to resolve phlegm, reduce swelling, and address various conditions associated with "dampness," which sometimes includes edema. However, the traditional use is more focused on treating phlegm, cough, convulsions, and swelling (often of abscesses or sores) rather than systemic fluid accumulation as seen in modern interpretations of edema. There is little direct reference in authoritative TCM texts to its use for generalized edema (水肿), and it is more commonly included in formulas for localized swelling or phlegm-damp disorders.

From a scientific perspective, there are no robust clinical trials or pharmacological studies supporting the efficacy of Arisaema for treating edema. Its traditional use is sometimes extrapolated to include edema because of its supposed ability to "drain dampness" and reduce swelling, but these claims have not been validated with modern research. Therefore, the evidence base is primarily traditional and indirect, with a very low level of scientific support.

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