Evidence supporting the use of: Anamarrhena
For the health condition: Influenza

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Synopsis

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

Anemarrhena asphodeloides (known as Zhimu in traditional Chinese medicine) has a long history of use in East Asian medicine. Traditionally, it is employed to "clear heat," "nourish yin," and "moisten dryness," and is often included in herbal formulas designed to treat febrile illnesses, which can include influenza-like symptoms such as fever and cough. Its use for influenza specifically is based on its role in formulas that address symptoms matching traditional conceptions of flu, rather than on direct evidence against the influenza virus.

Modern pharmacological studies have found that Anemarrhena contains steroidal saponins, xanthones, and other compounds with potential anti-inflammatory and antipyretic activities. Some in vitro and animal studies suggest certain extracts may have immunomodulatory or mild antiviral properties, but high-quality clinical trials in humans are lacking. There is no direct scientific evidence demonstrating efficacy of Anemarrhena against influenza infection itself. Thus, its use in this context is primarily justified by tradition, and scientific support is weak. The evidence rating reflects that while traditional use is well established, modern validation is limited.

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