Evidence supporting the use of: Coptis chinensis
For the health condition: Irritability

Links: Go back one page, Tool main page, Ingredients list, Health conditions list, Body systems list

Synopsis

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

Coptis chinensis (Huang Lian) has a long history of use in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), primarily for its bitter and cooling properties that are believed to "clear heat" and "dry dampness" in the body. In TCM theory, irritability is often associated with excess internal heat or disturbances in the heart or liver systems. Coptis chinensis is commonly included in herbal formulas to address symptoms such as restlessness, insomnia, and irritability, especially when these are thought to arise from "heat in the heart" or "liver fire." The main active compounds in Coptis chinensis, such as berberine, have demonstrated sedative and anti-inflammatory effects in some preclinical studies, but there is limited direct scientific research specifically linking Coptis chinensis to the treatment of irritability in humans. Most evidence supporting its use for irritability is derived from traditional practice and historical texts rather than modern clinical trials. While some animal studies suggest possible anxiolytic or calming effects, these findings are preliminary and not sufficient to firmly establish efficacy for irritability in humans. Thus, the use of Coptis chinensis for irritability remains primarily rooted in tradition, with only modest scientific support at this time.

More about Coptis chinensis
More about Irritability