Synopsis

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

Hygrophila (commonly known as "Kokilaksha" or Hygrophila auriculata) has a long history of use in traditional systems of medicine such as Ayurveda and Unani, particularly in South Asia. It is traditionally used as a diuretic and for the management of edema (swelling caused by fluid retention). Historical Ayurvedic texts describe preparations of Hygrophila for reducing water retention and treating conditions associated with excess fluid, such as ascites and general swelling. The root and whole plant extracts are most commonly utilized for these purposes.

Scientific evidence supporting the diuretic or anti-edematous effects of Hygrophila is limited but not entirely absent. Some in vivo animal studies have indicated that extracts of Hygrophila may increase urine output, lending preliminary support to its traditional use as a diuretic. However, robust clinical trials in humans are lacking, and the quality of the available studies is generally low, with small sample sizes and poor methodological rigor. As such, while there is traditional precedent for using Hygrophila in the management of edema, high-quality scientific validation is currently insufficient. Further research, particularly well-designed human clinical trials, is needed to establish efficacy and safety for this indication.

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