Synopsis

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

Boerhavia diffusa, commonly known as Punarnava, has a documented history of use in traditional medicine systems such as Ayurveda, Siddha, and Unani for a variety of conditions, including headache. In Ayurvedic texts, Boerhavia diffusa is cited as being used in formulations or as a single herb to alleviate symptoms of pain, including general headaches. The plant is believed to have anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and mild sedative properties, which may contribute to its traditional use for headache relief.

However, scientific studies specifically investigating Boerhavia diffusa for headache or migraine are limited. While some pharmacological research has demonstrated the plant’s anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects in animal models or in vitro, these studies do not directly evaluate its impact on headache in humans. The traditional use is thus based primarily on empirical knowledge and long-standing practice rather than on clinical trials or robust scientific validation.

In summary, while Boerhavia diffusa is traditionally used for headache and has some properties that could theoretically support this use, there is a lack of direct scientific evidence confirming its efficacy for this specific condition. The evidence supporting its use for headache is therefore rated as modest and grounded in traditional usage rather than modern clinical data.

More about Boerhavia diffussa
More about Headache (general)

Other ingredients used for Headache (general)

Other health conditions supported by Boerhavia diffussa

Products containing Boerhavia diffussa