Asarabacca (Asarum europaeum) has a long history of use in traditional European herbal medicine, particularly for ailments related to the head and respiratory tract, including the sinuses. Historically, it was used as a sternutatory (a substance that induces sneezing), with the belief that inducing sneezing could help clear the sinuses of congestion and catarrh. The herb was commonly included in snuffs and powders intended to provoke sneezing, which was thought to expel excess mucus and relieve pressure in cases of sinusitis or "stuffed head." These uses are documented in herbal texts from the 16th to 19th centuries, including works by Nicholas Culpeper and other early herbalists.

However, Asarabacca contains toxic compounds such as aristolochic acids, which have been associated with nephrotoxicity and carcinogenicity. Due to its toxicity, it fell out of favor in modern herbal practice, and its use is now discouraged or prohibited in many countries. There is little to no scientific research confirming its efficacy or safety for sinus support, and it is not recommended for internal or prolonged use. The evidence supporting its use is therefore based primarily on pre-modern traditional practices rather than clinical trials or modern pharmacological studies.