Black Hellebore (Helleborus niger) has a long history of use in traditional European herbal medicine, dating back to ancient Greece and Rome. Historical records indicate that it was employed as a purgative and diuretic, intended to expel excess fluids from the body, which is relevant to the treatment of edema (fluid retention). The root was sometimes administered for dropsy (an old term for edema) and other conditions associated with fluid accumulation. However, its use was accompanied by significant risks, as the plant contains potent and toxic compounds such as helleborin and hellebrin, which can cause severe gastrointestinal and cardiac symptoms.

Despite its traditional application, there is minimal modern scientific evidence supporting the efficacy or safety of Black Hellebore for edema. No clinical trials or robust pharmacological studies have validated its diuretic effects or its safety profile in humans. Given its toxicity, Black Hellebore is rarely, if ever, used in contemporary herbal practice for edema. Its legacy as a treatment for fluid retention is therefore based primarily on historical texts and traditional doctrine, rather than on scientific validation or modern clinical use.

In summary, while Black Hellebore was traditionally used to treat edema, this practice lacks strong scientific support and poses significant safety concerns.