Synopsis

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

Ligustilides are a group of phthalide compounds predominantly found in herbs such as Angelica sinensis (Dong Quai) and Ligusticum chuanxiong, which are widely used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). In TCM, these herbs have been historically prescribed for promoting blood circulation, dispelling wind, and alleviating various types of "stasis" conditions—including swelling and edema—though the specific role of ligustilides in this context is not always clearly delineated. The traditional rationale is based more on the holistic actions of the whole herb rather than on isolated compounds.

Scientific evidence directly supporting the use of ligustilides for the treatment or reduction of edema is minimal. Most research on ligustilides has focused on their anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, and vasodilatory effects. While these properties could theoretically impact conditions related to edema, such as inflammation-induced swelling, there are no robust clinical trials or pharmacological studies that specifically validate ligustilides as anti-edema agents in humans. As a result, the use of ligustilides for edema is supported by tradition rather than by direct scientific validation, and the overall evidence quality is low.

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