Betony (Stachys officinalis, formerly Betonica officinalis) has a long history of use in traditional European herbal medicine, particularly for various nervous system ailments including neuralgia and neuritis. Historical texts, such as those by the herbalists Nicholas Culpeper and John Gerard, mention betony as a remedy for nerve-related pain and "all diseases of the head and nerves." Folk medicine employed betony teas and preparations to treat headaches, nerve pain, and other neurological discomforts. The rationale rested on the herb's perceived "nervine" and anti-inflammatory qualities, though these were based on empirical observation rather than scientific experimentation.

Modern scientific studies on betony's effects for neuralgia or neuritis are lacking. While the plant contains compounds such as phenylethanoid glycosides, flavonoids, and tannins, which may have mild anti-inflammatory or antispasmodic actions, there is no direct clinical evidence demonstrating efficacy for neuralgia or neuritis. Thus, its use for these conditions is justified mainly by traditional usage rather than scientific validation. The evidence rating is low (1/5), reflecting anecdotal and historical reports rather than rigorous clinical data.