Evidence supporting the use of: Bupleurum falcatum
For the body system: Lymphatics

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1

Bupleurum falcatum is a traditional medicinal herb widely used in East Asian herbal medicine, particularly in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and Kampo (Japanese herbal medicine). Its primary use historically has been to "soothe the liver," clear heat, and promote the movement of qi (energy) rather than specifically targeting the lymphatic system as understood in Western medicine. Some traditional formulations that include bupleurum, such as Xiao Chai Hu Tang (Minor Bupleurum Decoction), are used to address symptoms like fever, chills, and a sensation of fullness, which practitioners may loosely associate with fluid metabolism and bodily detoxification. However, there is no direct historical evidence or classic reference indicating that bupleurum was specifically intended to support or "cleanse" the lymphatic system.

Modern scientific research on bupleurum has mainly focused on its anti-inflammatory, hepatoprotective, and immunomodulatory properties, with a few studies exploring its effects on immune cells and cytokines. While these activities could, in theory, influence components of the lymphatic and immune systems, there is no robust scientific evidence directly linking bupleurum falcatum to improved lymphatic function in humans. Therefore, any claims about its lymphatic support are extrapolated and not based on either strong tradition or scientific validation.

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