What is the mechanism by which Gelsemium (Gelsemium sempervirens) alleviates headaches?

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Last updated: May 20, 2025View editorial policy

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From the Research

Gelsemium may help with your headaches due to its potential analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, as suggested by the most recent study in 2025 1. The study published in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences in 2025 1 investigated the target and mechanisms of Gelsemium alkaloids in the central nervous system, providing insights into its potential effects on pain and inflammation. Some key points to consider:

  • Gelsemium contains alkaloids that have sedative and analgesic properties, which may help reduce pain and inflammation.
  • The plant has been used in traditional medicine for various purposes, including the treatment of migraines, neuralgia, and sciatica, as reported in a review published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology in 2014 2.
  • However, it's essential to note that scientific evidence supporting its effectiveness for headaches is limited, and in its raw form, gelsemium can be toxic.
  • Homeopathic preparations of Gelsemium typically contain extremely diluted amounts of the original substance, and the standard homeopathic dosage is usually 30C potency, taken as directed on the package or by a homeopathic practitioner.
  • Before continuing to use gelsemium for headaches, it's crucial to consult with a healthcare provider, as there may be more effective and scientifically validated treatments available for your specific type of headache, and to rule out any serious underlying causes that might require different medical attention. Other studies, such as those published in 2018 3 and 2010 4, also suggest that Gelsemium may have anxiolytic and analgesic effects, but the most recent and highest-quality study 1 provides the most relevant information for this question.

References

Research

Beneficial effects of Gelsemium-based treatment against paclitaxel-induced painful symptoms.

Neurological sciences : official journal of the Italian Neurological Society and of the Italian Society of Clinical Neurophysiology, 2018

Research

Antianxiety activity of Gelsemium sempervirens.

Pharmaceutical biology, 2010

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This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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