Gnaphalium, commonly known as cudweed, has a history of traditional use in folk medicine across several cultures, including Native American and European herbal practices. Its use for chest pain (often referred to as angina or pleuritic pain in older texts) is primarily based on traditional remedies rather than scientific research. Traditional healers have used various species of Gnaphalium as infusions, poultices, or teas for ailments such as respiratory discomfort, chest colds, and occasionally chest pain thought to be related to muscle strain or inflammation rather than cardiac causes.

There is limited published scientific evidence evaluating Gnaphalium for any type of chest pain, whether cardiac or non-cardiac. Modern clinical trials or pharmacological studies supporting its efficacy or safety for this purpose are lacking. The available evidence for its use in chest pain is thus based on anecdotal reports and historical herbal guides rather than rigorous clinical data. Some preclinical studies have noted anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties in Gnaphalium extracts, which may hypothetically contribute to pain relief, but these findings have not been specifically connected to chest pain in humans.

In summary, while Gnaphalium has a traditional reputation for addressing chest-related discomfort, there is insufficient scientific validation to recommend its use for chest pain, especially for serious causes such as angina. Anyone experiencing chest pain should seek immediate medical attention.