Evidence supporting the use of: Squawvine
For the body system: Uterus

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Synopsis

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

Squawvine (Mitchella repens) has a long history of use in traditional herbal medicine, particularly among Native American tribes and early North American settlers. It is most commonly employed as a uterine tonic, believed to support healthy uterine function, especially in preparation for childbirth. Women have used squawvine tea or tincture during the final weeks of pregnancy to 'tone' the uterus and potentially ease labor. The plant is sometimes called "partridge berry" or "squaw vine"—the latter referencing its historical use by "squaws" (a now outdated and inappropriate term for Indigenous women).

Despite its traditional use, there is a lack of robust scientific research validating these claims. No clinical trials or pharmacological studies have conclusively demonstrated squawvine's efficacy for uterine health or labor preparation. The evidence for its benefits is primarily anecdotal and based on historical herbal texts and ethnobotanical records. Contemporary herbalists may still recommend it based on this tradition, but its use is not supported by substantial modern scientific data. As such, while its use for uterine support is historically rooted, the quality of evidence is limited, and safety or efficacy has not been rigorously evaluated in controlled studies.

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