Synopsis

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

Mistletoe has been used traditionally in European herbal medicine for various conditions, including those involving the lymphatic system, such as swollen lymph nodes or glands. Folk medicine practices, particularly in anthroposophic and some herbal traditions, have ascribed immune-modulating and anti-inflammatory properties to mistletoe extracts. The use of mistletoe for swollen glands is rooted mainly in these traditional beliefs and anecdotal reports, where it was thought to help "cleanse the blood" or "stimulate lymphatic drainage."

Scientifically, most research on mistletoe (particularly Viscum album) focuses on its use as an adjunctive therapy in cancer, where it may indirectly affect lymph nodes involved in malignancy. However, robust clinical evidence specifically supporting mistletoe’s efficacy for treating benign swollen lymph nodes or glands is lacking. Systematic reviews and controlled trials have not substantiated its direct benefits for this indication. The evidence rating reflects the presence of traditional use but insufficient modern scientific validation.

In summary, while mistletoe’s application for swollen lymph nodes or glands is primarily justified by tradition, there is a lack of strong clinical or scientific evidence to support its efficacy for this specific purpose.

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