Synopsis

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

Boerhavia diffusa, commonly known as Punarnava, is primarily used in traditional medicine systems such as Ayurveda and traditional folk medicine in India for a variety of ailments, including eye infections. Historical texts and ethnobotanical surveys indicate that the plant's leaves and extracts have been applied as eye drops or poultices to treat conditions like conjunctivitis and other eye irritations. The rationale for this use is mostly based on its reputed anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which are well-documented in folk remedies but less so in rigorous scientific studies specific to ocular conditions.

While several in vitro and in vivo studies have demonstrated that Boerhavia diffusa possesses broad-spectrum antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activity, there is a lack of direct scientific studies evaluating its efficacy or safety specifically for eye infections in humans or animal models. The plant contains bioactive compounds such as punarnavine, boeravinones, and lignans, which have shown some pharmacological activity, but these have not been explicitly studied for ophthalmic application. Therefore, the use of Boerhavia diffusa for eye infections remains primarily justified by tradition, with very limited scientific validation for this specific indication.

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