Patrinia (Patrinia scabiosaefolia and related species) has a long history of use in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and other East Asian herbal systems. It is commonly referred to as "Bai Jiang Cao" in TCM. One of its traditional indications includes the treatment of conditions described as "swelling," "abscesses," and "toxic accumulation," which can correlate with modern concepts of swollen lymph glands or lymphadenitis. Classical TCM texts mention its use for "heat toxicity" and to "reduce swelling and expel pus," and it is sometimes included in herbal formulas for "scrofula" (historically a term for tuberculous lymphadenitis) and other glandular swellings.

However, there is limited modern scientific evidence directly supporting its efficacy specifically for swollen lymph glands. Some pharmacological studies have demonstrated Patrinia's anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, which might theoretically contribute to reducing lymph node swelling due to infection or inflammation. Nevertheless, most research focuses on other uses, such as treatment for infections, wound healing, or as an adjunct in cancer therapy. Clinical trials specifically examining its effect on swollen lymph nodes or lymphadenitis are lacking.

In summary, Patrinia's use for swollen glands is primarily based on traditional medical texts and practices, with only low-level supporting evidence from modern pharmacological studies but no direct clinical validation.