Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1

Sweetgum (Liquidambar styraciflua) has a history of use in traditional and folk medicine, particularly among Native American groups and early European settlers in North America. The resin (often called "storax") was sometimes applied topically or chewed for various ailments, including as a remedy for sore throats, coughs, and sometimes earaches. The rationale was its aromatic, mildly antiseptic, and soothing properties, which were believed to help with inflammation and discomfort. However, there is very limited and mostly anecdotal evidence specifically for its efficacy in treating ear infections or earache. There are no well-designed clinical studies supporting its use for this purpose. Most references to sweetgum for earache derive from ethnobotanical records, not from controlled trials or pharmacological research. Modern herbal medicine rarely includes sweetgum as a recommended remedy for ear infections, likely due to the lack of strong evidence and the availability of safer, more effective treatments. Any potential benefit is likely minor and based on traditional practices rather than scientific validation. Caution is also advised, as introducing plant materials into the ear canal can sometimes risk irritation or infection.

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