Synopsis

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

Many botanicals have traditionally been used to support or treat bites and stings, relying primarily on anecdotal and historical accounts rather than robust scientific validation. Plants such as plantain (Plantago spp.), calendula (Calendula officinalis), and aloe vera (Aloe barbadensis) have been employed in folk medicine for their purported soothing, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties. For example, plantain leaves have been chewed or applied as poultices to insect bites and stings to reduce inflammation and discomfort. Calendula has a long history of topical use for minor wounds and skin irritations, while aloe vera gel is commonly used for its cooling effect on irritated skin.

However, the scientific evidence supporting the efficacy of these botanicals for bites and stings is limited and primarily consists of in vitro studies, animal models, or small clinical trials that are not specific to bites and stings but rather focus on general anti-inflammatory or wound-healing properties. There is a lack of large-scale, high-quality clinical trials demonstrating clear benefit for this particular use. Thus, while traditional usage is well documented, scientific validation is limited, leading to a moderate evidence rating of 2 out of 5.

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