Gnaphalium, commonly known as cudweed, has a history of use in traditional herbal medicine, particularly among Native American and folk herbalists. It has been used for a variety of ailments, including respiratory conditions, pain, and inflammation. Reports of its use for ear infection or earache stem primarily from ethnobotanical sources, where poultices or infusions made from the plant were sometimes applied externally or used in ear drops to alleviate ear pain or discomfort. However, these uses are based on anecdotal evidence and passed-down traditions rather than controlled clinical trials or pharmacological studies.

There is very little scientific research specifically examining the efficacy of Gnaphalium for ear infections or earache. Most of the available literature documents its anti-inflammatory and mild analgesic properties in vitro or in animal models, but not in the context of otic (ear) conditions. No modern clinical studies have validated its use for ear infections, and there is a lack of clear understanding of its active constituents’ mechanism of action in treating such conditions. Thus, the evidence remains rooted in tradition rather than being scientifically established, and the strength of evidence is low.