Synopsis

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

Sweet clover (Melilotus officinalis) has a history of use in European herbal medicine, primarily for circulatory disorders such as chronic venous insufficiency and related conditions, including phlebitis (inflammation of a vein). The plant contains coumarins, which are precursors to anticoagulant compounds and are thought to have mild anti-edematous (reducing swelling), anti-inflammatory, and venotonic (vein-strengthening) effects. Some clinical trials and pharmacological studies, mostly from Europe, have investigated sweet clover extracts for chronic venous insufficiency, lymphedema, and related vascular issues. These studies suggest potential benefits in reducing edema and improving symptoms associated with venous stasis, which can overlap with the management of superficial phlebitis.

However, the quality of evidence is moderate at best. Systematic reviews have highlighted methodological limitations in many of the studies, including small sample sizes and lack of rigorous controls. There is no strong evidence from large, well-designed randomized controlled trials specifically supporting sweet clover’s effectiveness for phlebitis. Most available data focus on more general venous disorders rather than acute vein inflammation. The European Medicines Agency (EMA) recognizes sweet clover for traditional use in minor venous circulatory disturbances, but not specifically for phlebitis. In summary, there is some scientific basis—primarily from older or less robust studies—for sweet clover’s use in venous conditions, but direct evidence for phlebitis is limited, justifying a modest rating of 2 on the evidence scale.

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