Anamu (Petiveria alliacea) has been used in traditional medicine across Latin America and the Caribbean for a variety of ailments, including those involving the lymphatic system, such as swollen glands. In folk medicine, Anamu is often prepared as a tea or poultice and administered to reduce inflammation and to ‘cleanse’ the blood, which practitioners associate with the function of the lymphatic glands.

Scientific research on Anamu does indicate that the plant contains several bioactive compounds, such as dibenzyl trisulfide, that exhibit anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties in vitro and in animal models. However, these studies are preliminary and do not directly evaluate the treatment of swollen glands or lymphadenopathy in humans. There are no clinical trials or robust scientific evidence specifically confirming that Anamu is effective in treating swollen lymph nodes.

Therefore, while its use for supporting swollen glands is rooted in tradition and there is some plausible biological rationale based on its anti-inflammatory effects, the current evidence is limited and indirect. The rating reflects a moderate level of traditional use (2/5) and a lack of direct scientific validation for this specific condition.