Jingtong Granules for Cervicogenic Headache: Clinical Efficacy, Mechanisms, and Translational Potential

Headache is a highly prevalent neurological symptom worldwide. Among headache subtypes, cervicogenic headache (CEH) has attracted growing research attention owing to its rising incidence, younger‑onset trend, and substantial adverse impacts on patients' quality of life. However, conventional pharmacological therapies for CEH may be associated with notable adverse effects. Jingtong Granule, a Chinese patent medicine with the functions of promoting blood circulation to remove blood stasis and regulating qi to relieve pain, is widely applied for cervical spondylotic radiculopathy in clinical practice. In recent years, its potential therapeutic value for various headache disorders, particularly CEH, has drawn increasing interest, yet a comprehensive systematic review on this topic remains absent. Based on recent domestic and international studies, this review systematically summarizes the pathogenesis of CEH (especially the relationship between CEH and cervical lesions), the formula characteristics and pharmacological effects of Jingtong Granule, its clinical applications (used either alone or combined with other interventions) for headache management, and its safety profile. Current limitations of available evidence and directions for future research are also highlighted. Notably, existing clinical and mechanistic evidence regarding Jingtong Granule for CEH remains preliminary, and high‑quality, large‑scale clinical trials are still required to support its standardized clinical application. This review aims to provide preliminary references for future clinical use and related investigations of Jingtong Granule in headache treatment.