Synopsis

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

Bupleurum, particularly as Bupleurum chinense (Chai Hu), is primarily used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for liver and gallbladder-related conditions. In TCM, Bupleurum is a key herb in formulas such as Xiao Chai Hu Tang, which has been historically used to "soothe the liver," "harmonize" the digestive organs, and address symptoms thought to relate to a "sluggish" liver or gallbladder, such as digestive discomfort, irritability, and poor bile flow. Bupleurum is believed to promote the flow of Qi (vital energy) in the liver and gallbladder meridians, which, in TCM theory, can be disrupted by stress, dietary issues, or surgery (such as gallbladder removal).

Scientific evidence directly supporting Bupleurum for gallbladder conditions is limited. Some animal studies suggest possible hepatoprotective (liver-protecting) and choleretic (bile flow-promoting) effects of Bupleurum extracts, but these findings have not been robustly translated into clinical practice or validated in human trials for gallbladder disease or post-cholecystectomy support. Thus, the use of Bupleurum in this context is justified by traditional rather than scientific evidence.

In summary, Bupleurum's use for supporting gallbladder health, whether sluggish or removed, is grounded in longstanding traditional herbal practice, particularly TCM, rather than modern scientific validation.

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