Synopsis

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

Goldthread (Coptis chinensis) has a long history of use in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), where it is commonly prescribed for conditions described as "damp-heat" in the liver and gallbladder, which can correspond to symptoms of jaundice in Western medicine. The primary active constituent of Goldthread is berberine, an alkaloid known for its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. Traditional herbal formulations often include Goldthread as a component intended to "clear heat" and "dry dampness," with jaundice (characterized by yellowing of the skin and eyes) being a classic example of such a condition in TCM theory.

Despite its traditional use, modern scientific evidence directly supporting Goldthread's effectiveness in treating jaundice in adults is limited. Some in vitro and animal studies suggest that berberine may have hepatoprotective effects and could influence liver enzymes and bilirubin metabolism, but robust clinical trials in humans are lacking. Therefore, the use of Goldthread for jaundice remains primarily tradition-based, with some pharmacological rationale suggested by constituent compounds, but not enough high-quality evidence to recommend its use by Western medical standards.

In summary, Goldthread's use for jaundice is rooted in historical and traditional practice, particularly in East Asian herbal medicine, with limited scientific validation to date.

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