Evidence supporting the use of: Lily of the Valley
For the health condition: Congestive Heart Failure

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Synopsis

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

Lily of the Valley (Convallaria majalis) has a long history of traditional use in the treatment of heart conditions, including congestive heart failure (CHF), particularly in European herbal medicine. The plant contains cardiac glycosides, primarily convallatoxin, which are chemically similar to digoxin, a well-known cardiac medication derived from foxglove (Digitalis). These glycosides exert positive inotropic effects, meaning they can increase the force of heart contractions, theoretically benefiting patients with heart failure. Historical records from the 19th and early 20th centuries document its use by physicians prior to the widespread adoption of purified digitalis compounds. However, robust modern scientific evidence supporting its efficacy and safety in the management of CHF is limited. While pharmacological studies confirm the presence of active glycosides and their effects on cardiac tissue in laboratory settings, there is a lack of high-quality clinical trials in humans. Safety concerns, particularly regarding dosing and toxicity, have limited its adoption in contemporary medicine. As a result, current guidelines do not recommend Lily of the Valley for heart failure, and its use persists primarily in traditional and historical contexts rather than evidence-based practice.

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