Evidence supporting the use of: Labrador Tea
For the health condition: Ear Infection or Earache
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1
Labrador Tea (Rhododendron groenlandicum, formerly Ledum groenlandicum) has been traditionally used by some Indigenous peoples in North America for a variety of ailments, including colds, coughs, and other respiratory issues. There are anecdotal reports and ethnobotanical records indicating that Labrador Tea was sometimes used as part of poultices or infusions for earaches or mild infections, but these uses are not widespread nor are they a central part of its ethnomedicinal application. The evidence supporting its use specifically for ear infections or earache is minimal and primarily based on traditional knowledge rather than any scientific validation.
There are no clinical trials or pharmacological studies that directly support the effectiveness of Labrador Tea for ear infections or ear pain. Its traditional use for respiratory complaints is better documented than for otic (ear) conditions. Additionally, Labrador Tea contains volatile oils and compounds (such as ledol and tannins) that could potentially have mild antimicrobial properties, but these have not been systematically evaluated for safety or efficacy in the context of ear infections.
In summary, while there is some limited traditional use of Labrador Tea for earache, the evidence is weak (rated 1 out of 5), and there is no scientific data to support this use. Caution is advised, as improper use of herbal remedies in the ear may cause irritation or harm.
Other ingredients used for Ear Infection or Earache
myrobalanbetel
blackberry
chamomile
Coptis chinensis
forsythia
garlic bulb
ginger
goldenseal
onion
Indian tinospora
mustard seed
oregano
plantain
rosemary
schizonepeta
sphaeranthus indicus
thyme
xylitol
mullein
xanthium (cockleburs)
gastrodia
papaya
Indian bael
neem tree
nut grass
alpinia galangal
clerodendrum indicum
ferula assafoetida
hedychium spicatum
anise
blackboard tree
caesalpinia crista
myrrh
sweet flag
sweetgums
morinda
zanthoxylum
eucalyptus
paw paw
melaleuca alternifolia
indigo leaves
geranium
Achyranthes
Anamu
Alchornea
Asafoetida
Aerva lanata
Alsonia scholaris
Asteracea
Abuta
Amor seco
Blepharis
Balsam
Bishop's Weed
Butea monosperma
Barleria
Bitter Grass
Bombax
Bergenia
Borneol
Coconut
Calendula
Cinnamomum
Calotropis gigantea
Cajuput
Centipeda
Calamus
Costus
Celosia
Didymocarpus
DIVI-DIVI
Devil's Club
Erodium cicutarium
Elephant's Head
Euphorbia
Eugenol
Goldthread
Garlic
Little ironweed
Mallow
Poppy
Vervain
Other health conditions supported by Labrador Tea
Abdominal PainAfterbirth Pain
Arthritis
Asthma
Bites and Stings
Bladder Infection
Bleeding (external)
Bronchitis
Bruises (healing)
Burns and Scalds
Cancer (natural therapy for)
Canker Sores
Chest Pain
Colds (antiviral)
Colds (decongestant)
Colds (general)
Colds (prevention)
Congestion (bronchial)
Congestion (lungs)
Congestion (sinus)
Cuts
Dandruff
Diabetes
Digestion (poor)
Dislocation
Ear Infection or Earache
Eczema
Emphysema
Eye Infections
Fever
Gastritis
Gingivitis
Headache (general)
Headache (sinus)
Headache (tension)
Hemorrhoids
Hepatitis
Indigestion
Inflammation
Influenza
Insomnia
Itching