Evidence supporting the use of: Boxthorne
For the health condition: Eye Problems

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Synopsis

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

Boxthorne, also known as Lycium barbarum or goji berry, has a long history of use in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) for supporting eye health. In TCM, goji berries are believed to nourish the liver and kidney, organs thought to play a crucial role in vision. Historical texts such as the "Shennong Ben Cao Jing" (Divine Farmer’s Materia Medica Classic) mention goji berries as beneficial for improving eyesight, treating blurred vision, and alleviating eye fatigue. This traditional use is based on observational and anecdotal evidence accumulated over centuries.

Modern scientific studies investigating the effect of goji berries or boxthorne on eye health are limited but suggest possible mechanisms. Some small-scale studies and animal experiments indicate that goji berries are rich in antioxidants such as zeaxanthin and lutein, which are known to accumulate in the retina and may help protect against age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and oxidative stress. However, robust clinical trials in humans are lacking, and the evidence remains preliminary. Most support for using boxthorne for eye problems comes from traditional practices rather than strong scientific validation. Overall, while there is historical precedent for boxthorne's use in supporting eye health, more high-quality research is required to confirm its efficacy and safety for this purpose.

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