Evidence supporting the use of: Ground Ivy
For the health condition: Glands (swollen lymph)

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Synopsis

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

Ground Ivy (Glechoma hederacea) has a history of traditional use in Western herbal medicine, particularly in Europe. Historically, it has been used as a remedy for a variety of ailments, including respiratory conditions, digestive complaints, and issues related to the lymphatic system such as “swollen glands.” Herbalists in past centuries, especially during the Middle Ages and Renaissance, sometimes used ground ivy for "glandular swellings" or “scrofula” (a form of tuberculosis affecting lymph nodes), though records are often anecdotal and not standardized.

Despite this traditional use, there is very little scientific evidence to support the efficacy of ground ivy for treating swollen lymph glands. Only a handful of laboratory studies have investigated the plant’s chemical constituents, such as volatile oils, flavonoids, and terpenoids, which may have mild anti-inflammatory or antimicrobial properties. However, no clinical trials or rigorous scientific investigations have specifically examined its effects on lymphatic tissue or swollen glands in humans.

In summary, while ground ivy has a historical reputation in folk medicine for supporting glandular or lymphatic health, the evidence is almost entirely anecdotal, and there is no robust scientific validation for these uses. Therefore, ground ivy’s use for swollen glands is supported by tradition with very low-quality evidence (rated 1 out of 5).

More about Ground Ivy
More about Glands (swollen lymph)

Products containing Ground Ivy

We currently have no products on Caring Sunshine that contain this ingredient.