Synopsis

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

Cicada (specifically, the sloughed exoskeleton of Cicadae periostracum, known as "Chantui" in Traditional Chinese Medicine) has a long history of use in East Asian herbal medicine. It is traditionally employed for conditions related to the external wind, such as convulsions, sore throat, itching, and certain types of headache, including those associated with sinus congestion. The rationale for its use in sinus headaches is based on traditional Chinese medical theories, wherein cicada is believed to "dispel wind-heat" and "clear the head and eyes." It is often included in herbal formulas aimed at relieving symptoms of upper respiratory tract infections, allergic rhinitis, and sinusitis, all of which can present with headache. However, there is limited scientific research specifically validating the efficacy of cicada for treating sinus headaches. Most evidence is anecdotal or comes from traditional clinical practice rather than controlled clinical studies. Some pharmacological investigations have found anti-inflammatory and antipyretic properties in extracts of cicada exuviae, which could theoretically contribute to symptom relief, but data remain sparse and indirect. Therefore, the use of cicada for sinus headache is primarily supported by traditional use with minimal scientific validation.

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