Evidence supporting the use of: Little ironweed
For the health condition: Ear Infection or Earache
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2
Little ironweed (Vernonia cinerea) has a history of use in traditional medicine systems, particularly in South and Southeast Asia. It has been utilized for various ailments, including as a remedy for ear infections and earache. In folk medicine, the juice of its leaves or a decoction is sometimes instilled into the ear to relieve pain and inflammation. This practice is referenced in ethnobotanical surveys and traditional medicinal texts, which document its application among rural and tribal populations.
However, scientific validation for its efficacy in treating ear infections or earaches is very limited. While Vernonia cinerea is known to have general anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, as supported by some in vitro and animal studies, there is a lack of direct clinical research or controlled studies demonstrating its effectiveness specifically for ear conditions. The traditional use appears to be based on empirical knowledge passed down through generations rather than on rigorous scientific investigation.
In summary, the use of Little ironweed for ear infection or earache is primarily justified by traditional practices, with only weak supporting evidence from general pharmacological studies. No clinical trials or robust scientific data currently substantiate its use for this particular indication.
More about Little ironweed
More about Ear Infection or Earache
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Other health conditions supported by Little ironweed
Abdominal PainAbrasions
Abscesses
Afterbirth Pain
Anemia
Appetite (deficient)
Asthma
Backache
Bleeding (external)
Boils
Bronchitis
Bruises (healing)
Burns and Scalds
Cancer (natural therapy for)
Canker Sores
Chest Pain
Colds (general)
Colds (with fever)
Cuts
Depression
Diabetes
Diarrhea
Digestion (poor)
Dyspepsia
Ear Infection or Earache
Eczema
Edema
Eye Problems
Fatigue
Fever
Gastritis
Glands (swollen lymph)
Headache (general)
Hemorrhoids
Hepatitis
Inflammation
Influenza
Insomnia
Jaundice (adults)
Kidney Infection
Liver Detoxification
Menstrual Irregularity
Migraine
Nausea and Vomiting