Evidence supporting the use of: Scrophularia ningpoensis
For the health condition: Lymph Nodes or Glands (swollen)
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2
Scrophularia ningpoensis, commonly known as Ningpo Figwort or Chinese Figwort, has a long history of use in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), where it is referred to as Xuán Shēn (玄参). It is traditionally used to "clear heat," "cool the blood," and "reduce swelling," and is often prescribed for conditions involving swollen lymph nodes or glands, such as mumps, sore throat, and certain types of inflammatory swellings. The rationale in TCM is that Xuán Shēn helps to resolve toxins and dissipate nodules, which may include lymphatic swelling.
However, while the traditional use is well documented in classical herbal texts and remains common in TCM practice, robust scientific evidence supporting its effectiveness for swollen lymph nodes or glandular conditions is limited. Some laboratory studies have indicated that Scrophularia ningpoensis contains iridoid glycosides and phenylpropanoid glycosides, which may have anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects. But there are very few clinical trials or high-quality human studies directly evaluating its impact on lymphadenopathy or related conditions. Thus, its use for swollen lymph nodes is primarily justified by traditional practice rather than modern scientific validation.
In summary, Scrophularia ningpoensis is traditionally used to support swollen lymph nodes or glands in TCM, but scientific evidence supporting this application is minimal, and its use should be approached with caution in the absence of stronger clinical data.
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Other health conditions supported by Scrophularia ningpoensis
AbscessesAdenitis
Boils
Carbuncles
Glands (swollen lymph)
Infection
Infection (bacterial)
Inflammation
Lymph Nodes or Glands (swollen)
Skin (infections)
Wounds and Sores