Synopsis

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

Boldo (Peumus boldus) has a long history of traditional use in South American herbal medicine, especially in Chile, for supporting liver and gallbladder health. Folk medicine has often utilized boldo leaves as a choleretic (to stimulate bile production) and cholagogue (to promote bile flow), aiming to relieve symptoms associated with sluggish digestion, biliary dyskinesia, or gallbladder discomfort. After gallbladder removal, some practitioners have historically recommended boldo to facilitate digestion by stimulating the liver’s bile output. The active compounds in boldo, including boldine (an alkaloid), are thought to be responsible for these effects.

Scientific evidence for boldo’s efficacy in gallbladder-related conditions, however, is limited. A few pharmacological studies have demonstrated that boldine and other constituents can have hepatoprotective and mild choleretic activity in animal models. Nonetheless, robust clinical trials in humans evaluating its use for gallbladder dysfunction or post-cholecystectomy support are lacking. The evidence supporting its use remains largely traditional, with only preliminary pharmacological data. Therefore, while its use is culturally and historically justified, it cannot be considered evidence-based by modern medical standards. Caution is advised, as boldo contains ascaridole, a potentially toxic compound, especially at high doses or with prolonged use.

More about boldo
More about Gall Bladder (sluggish or removed)

Other ingredients used for Gall Bladder (sluggish or removed)

Other health conditions supported by boldo

Products containing boldo