Synopsis

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

Betony (Stachys officinalis) has a long history of traditional use as an herbal remedy for various conditions, including external bleeding. In European folk medicine, particularly during the Middle Ages and Renaissance, betony was esteemed for its "wound-healing" properties. Herbalists like Nicholas Culpeper and John Gerard recorded its use for treating cuts, wounds, and nosebleeds, often by applying the crushed fresh plant or its juice directly to the affected area to help stop bleeding and promote healing. The astringent qualities of betony, attributed to its tannin content, were believed to constrict tissues and reduce bleeding.

However, while there is a strong tradition supporting betony's use for external bleeding, current scientific evidence is limited. Modern pharmacological studies on betony are sparse and mostly focus on its possible anti-inflammatory or mild analgesic properties rather than hemostatic (blood-stopping) effects. The traditional use is supported primarily by historical texts and ethnobotanical records rather than controlled clinical trials or robust scientific validation.

In summary, betony's use for external bleeding is primarily traditional. It is not currently backed by substantial scientific research, but its astringent components and centuries of historical use explain its continued presence in herbal medicine for minor external bleeding.

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Other ingredients used for Bleeding (external)

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