Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1

Prunus species (such as Prunus domestica, Prunus armeniaca, and Prunus persica) have a history of use in various traditional medicine systems, including Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), for addressing ailments related to the liver and gallbladder, sometimes including gall stones (cholelithiasis). The use is largely based on the belief that certain Prunus fruits or preparations can help "clear heat" or "remove dampness," which are traditional concepts sometimes associated with gallstone formation. However, the references to direct use of Prunus species specifically for gall stones are sparse and not well-documented in authoritative ethnobotanical or pharmacopoeial sources. Where mentioned, it is typically as part of complex polyherbal formulations rather than as a single-ingredient remedy.

There is very limited scientific evidence supporting the efficacy of Prunus species for treating or preventing gall stones. Few, if any, clinical studies have evaluated this use, and the available preclinical studies focus more on general hepatoprotective or digestive benefits rather than direct effects on gall stones. Therefore, while there is some traditional precedent for their use in this context, the evidence base is weak and not substantiated by modern research.

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