Japecanga (Smilax japecanga) is a plant native to South America, particularly Brazil, and has a history of use in traditional medicine. In Brazilian folk medicine, japecanga roots have been used as a diuretic and to support urinary tract health, including for conditions such as urinary tract infections, kidney stones, and inflammation of the urinary system. These uses are based on ethnobotanical reports and traditional practices passed down through generations.

Despite its traditional reputation, there is limited scientific research specifically evaluating japecanga’s effects on the urinary system. Most of the available evidence is anecdotal or comes from surveys of traditional healers and users. There are no robust clinical trials or pharmacological studies published in peer-reviewed literature that specifically assess the efficacy or safety of japecanga for urinary health. Some phytochemical analyses have documented the presence of saponins and other compounds that are often associated with diuretic effects in related species, but direct evidence for japecanga itself is lacking.

In summary, the use of japecanga to support the urinary system is primarily justified by traditional use rather than scientific validation. The evidence rating is low due to the absence of rigorous studies, but its longstanding role in folk medicine is well-documented in ethnobotanical sources.