Lungwort (Pulmonaria officinalis) has a long history of traditional use in supporting respiratory ailments, including pleurisy. The plant's name and historical application are rooted in the "Doctrine of Signatures," a pre-modern theory suggesting that herbs resembling certain body parts could treat ailments of those parts. Lungwort's spotted leaves were thought to resemble diseased lungs, and thus it was traditionally used to treat lung conditions such as coughs, bronchitis, and pleurisy. Herbal texts from the Middle Ages and later periods often mention Lungwort as an ingredient in remedies for chest complaints.

However, scientific validation for its effectiveness in pleurisy is lacking. Modern research has focused on its general antioxidant and mild anti-inflammatory properties, but there are no clinical trials or robust pharmacological studies specifically addressing its efficacy in pleurisy (inflammation of the pleura). The evidence remains anecdotal and based on traditional herbal practice rather than rigorous scientific evaluation. Therefore, while Lungwort is traditionally used for pleurisy, its use is not supported by strong scientific evidence.