Synopsis

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

Hedyotis, particularly Hedyotis diffusa (also known as Oldenlandia diffusa), is a traditional herb in Chinese medicine, commonly used in multi-herb formulas for a variety of ailments, including those associated with fibrosis such as chronic liver or lung conditions. Its use in fibrosis is primarily based on traditional beliefs that it "clears heat and toxins" and "resolves masses." In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), fibrosis is often conceptualized as a manifestation of "phlegm" or "stasis," and Hedyotis-containing formulas are prescribed to address these patterns.

Scientific research on Hedyotis diffusa and its effect on fibrosis is limited but emerging. Some in vitro and animal studies have suggested that extracts of Hedyotis diffusa may have anti-inflammatory, anti-proliferative, and anti-fibrotic activities, particularly in models of liver and pulmonary fibrosis. For example, certain studies report that Hedyotis extracts can reduce expression of fibrotic markers such as TGF-β1 and collagen in animal models. However, these findings are preliminary, and robust human clinical trials are lacking. As a result, while there is a traditional basis for its use and some early scientific rationale, strong clinical evidence is not yet available.

Therefore, the use of Hedyotis for fibrosis is justified primarily by tradition, with a modest but growing scientific interest. The overall strength of evidence supporting its efficacy remains low (rated 2/5), pending further clinical investigations.

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