Synopsis

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

Orchid trees (commonly referring to species in the Bauhinia genus) have a history of use in traditional medicine systems such as Ayurveda and traditional Chinese medicine. Various parts of the plant—including leaves, bark, and flowers—have been employed for their purported medicinal properties, including the treatment of infections. Ethnobotanical records from India and Southeast Asia report that decoctions or extracts of Bauhinia species are used to treat wounds, ulcers, and other conditions potentially related to bacterial infections. The traditional rationale is often based on observed effects rather than systematic study.

Scientific investigations into the antimicrobial properties of Bauhinia species are limited but do exist. In vitro studies have demonstrated mild to moderate antibacterial activity of extracts from species such as Bauhinia variegata and Bauhinia purpurea against certain bacterial strains. However, these studies are preliminary, often using crude extracts, and do not establish clinical efficacy or safety for treating infections in humans. No high-quality clinical trials or robust pharmacological data are available that confirm the effectiveness or safety of orchid tree preparations for bacterial infections. Thus, while traditional use is documented and there is some supportive laboratory data, the overall evidence remains weak and is not sufficient to justify medical use outside of traditional contexts.

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Other ingredients used for Infection (bacterial)

Other health conditions supported by Orchid tree (unspecified)

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