Synopsis

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

Ligustilides are major phthalide compounds predominantly found in plants such as Angelica sinensis (Dong Quai) and Ligusticum chuanxiong, both of which are commonly used in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). In TCM, these herbs are frequently prescribed to "invigorate the blood," "dispel wind," and "support heart function," especially in cases described as "heart weakness," which may encompass symptoms like fatigue, palpitations, or general cardiovascular insufficiency. The traditional use is largely based on centuries of empirical practice and recorded in classical materia medica rather than on controlled scientific studies.

Modern pharmacological investigations into ligustilides have focused on their vasodilatory, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective effects in cell and animal models. While some studies suggest that ligustilides may improve blood flow and offer mild protection against ischemic injury, direct clinical evidence supporting their use in treating heart weakness or specific cardiac conditions in humans is lacking. Thus, the endorsement of ligustilides for "heart weakness" is primarily rooted in traditional use, with limited and indirect scientific data. No high-quality clinical trials validate their efficacy for this indication.

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