Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1

Glechoma hederacea (commonly known as ground ivy or creeping charlie) has a long history of use in traditional European herbal medicine, including folk applications as a remedy for edema (fluid retention). Historical records indicate that ground ivy was used as a “spring herb” to help cleanse the body and was sometimes considered to promote urine flow, which may be beneficial in cases of mild fluid retention. However, the traditional use has been largely anecdotal, based on empirical observation rather than systematic study.

There is minimal scientific research specifically evaluating the efficacy of Glechoma hederacea for edema. The plant contains certain compounds, such as flavonoids, terpenoids, and essential oils, some of which have demonstrated mild diuretic effects in laboratory studies on related species or in vitro assays. Nevertheless, there is a lack of robust clinical trials or comprehensive pharmacological studies directly supporting its use for edema in humans. Thus, while traditional use exists, the evidence base is weak, and its effectiveness has not been scientifically validated. Modern herbal medicine references may mention Glechoma hederacea as a mild diuretic, but they typically do so with the caveat that clinical evidence is lacking.

In summary, the use of Glechoma hederacea for supporting or treating edema is primarily rooted in traditional herbal practice, with a very low level of scientific evidence to support the claim.

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