Evidence supporting the use of: Vitex negundo
For the health condition: Ear Infection or Earache
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2
Vitex negundo, commonly known as the Chinese chaste tree or Nirgundi, is traditionally used in various systems of medicine, particularly Ayurveda and Unani, for the management of ear infections and earache (otitis and otalgia). The most common traditional preparation involves the extraction of juice from the leaves, which is then warmed and administered as ear drops to relieve pain and inflammation. This practice has been documented in classical Ayurvedic texts, such as the Charaka Samhita and Sushruta Samhita. The rationale for its use is based on its reputed anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antimicrobial properties, as described in these texts and supported by ethnobotanical surveys.
However, scientific validation for this use is limited. Some in vitro and animal studies have demonstrated that Vitex negundo extracts exhibit anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial activities, which may be relevant to the treatment of ear infections. For example, studies have shown inhibition of common pathogens and reduction of inflammation markers. Nevertheless, there are very few clinical trials or robust human studies directly assessing its efficacy or safety as a treatment for ear infections or earache. Thus, while traditional use is strong and there is some preliminary scientific basis for its properties, the overall evidence level remains modest and largely historical/traditional in nature.
More about Vitex negundo
More about Ear Infection or Earache
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eucalyptus
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melaleuca alternifolia
indigo leaves
geranium
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Celosia
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Other health conditions supported by Vitex negundo
Abdominal PainAbrasions
Abscesses
Afterbirth Pain
Anal Fistula or Fissure
Anemia
Antibiotics (alternatives to)
Anxiety
Arthritis
Asthma
Backache
Bites and Stings
Bleeding (external)
Boils
Bronchitis
Bruises (healing)
Burns and Scalds
Cancer (natural therapy for)
Cancer (prevention)
Canker Sores
Carbuncles
Chest Pain
Colds (general)
Colds (prevention)
Congestion (bronchial)
Congestion (lungs)
Cuts
Depression
Dermatitis
Diabetes
Diarrhea
Digestion (poor)
Dysmenorrhea
Ear Infection or Earache
Eczema
Emphysema
Fever
Fungal Infections
Gastritis
Glands (swollen lymph)
Headache (general)
Headache (sinus)