Synopsis

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

Fleabane refers to several species in the genus Erigeron, and sometimes Conyza, which have a history of use in traditional herbal medicine. In North American and European folk practices, certain fleabane species—such as Erigeron canadensis (Canadian fleabane or horseweed)—were used for their purported astringent and styptic properties. These qualities made them popular remedies for external bleeding, minor wounds, and nosebleeds. The leaves or whole plant were often applied as poultices, or infusions were used as washes, based on the observation that they seemed to help stop minor bleeding.

The traditional rationale is attributed to the presence of tannins and other astringent compounds that constrict tissue and blood vessels, thus aiding in hemostasis. Despite frequent mentions in 19th and early 20th-century herbal texts, there is little to no modern clinical research validating fleabane’s efficacy for external bleeding. Phytochemical studies confirm the presence of tannins and flavonoids, which may theoretically have astringent effects, but controlled human studies are lacking. In summary, the use of fleabane for external bleeding is rooted in traditional herbal practice with some plausible phytochemical basis, but lacks robust scientific validation.

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