Evidence supporting the use of: Notopterygium
For the health condition: Headache (tension)

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Notopterygium, particularly the species Notopterygium incisum and Notopterygium forbesii, is a traditional Chinese medicinal herb known as "Qiang Huo" (羌活). In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), it has been used for centuries to dispel wind and dampness, and to alleviate pain, particularly in the upper body, including the head and neck. Its use for headache, especially those described as tension-type or caused by "wind-cold-damp" invasion, is well-documented in classical TCM texts.

Modern pharmacological studies have identified several bioactive compounds in Notopterygium, such as notopterol and isoimperatorin, which possess anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. However, direct clinical trials specifically evaluating its efficacy for tension-type headaches are lacking. Most of the available evidence is derived from TCM literature, animal studies, and in vitro experiments indicating potential mechanisms such as inhibition of inflammatory mediators and modulation of pain pathways. Nonetheless, this traditional use remains common in herbal formulations prescribed for headache relief in East Asian medicine.

In summary, the use of Notopterygium for tension-type headache is primarily supported by traditional usage, with limited modern scientific validation. The evidence rating of 2 reflects the strong traditional foundation but the absence of robust clinical or scientific studies targeting this specific indication.

More about Notopterygium
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