Plumbago zeylanica, commonly known as Ceylon leadwort or Chitrak, has a long history of use in traditional medicine systems such as Ayurveda and Siddha. In these practices, the root and extracts are used for a variety of ailments, including improving digestion, stimulating appetite, and as a remedy for conditions associated with swelling and inflammation, which may include swollen lymph nodes or glands. Ayurvedic texts occasionally mention Chitrak as useful in "glandular swellings" (granthi) and similar conditions, often due to its reputed "hot" and stimulating properties.

However, the evidence supporting this use is largely anecdotal or based on traditional knowledge rather than rigorous scientific validation. There are very few, if any, modern clinical studies directly investigating the effect of Plumbago zeylanica on lymphadenopathy or swollen lymph nodes. Some laboratory studies have demonstrated that extracts of the plant possess anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties, which could, in theory, provide a rationale for its traditional use in conditions involving glandular swelling. Nevertheless, these findings are preliminary and do not constitute direct evidence for efficacy in treating swollen lymph nodes in humans.

In summary, while Plumbago zeylanica is traditionally used for conditions involving swelling or inflammation (sometimes interpreted as swollen glands), there is currently a lack of robust scientific evidence to support its effectiveness specifically for swollen lymph nodes.