Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Shen-chu, also known as Massa Medicata Fermentata or Shenqu (神曲), is a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) ingredient composed of fermented wheat flour and various medicinal herbs. Historically, it is used to aid digestion and treat disorders related to the spleen and stomach in TCM theory. Its use for bedwetting (enuresis) is primarily rooted in traditional practices rather than modern scientific validation. In TCM, bedwetting in children is often attributed to spleen qi deficiency or kidney yang deficiency. Shen-chu is sometimes included in herbal formulas designed to strengthen the spleen, harmonize the stomach, and help with fluid metabolism, which, according to TCM, may indirectly address the underlying causes of enuresis.

Despite its long history of use in Chinese herbal formulas, there is limited scientific evidence specifically supporting the efficacy of Shen-chu for treating bedwetting. Most available studies focus on its digestive benefits, such as improving appetite or treating indigestion. Clinical trials directly investigating its effects on enuresis are scarce, and high-quality randomized controlled trials are lacking. Thus, while Shen-chu’s use for bedwetting is justified by tradition and TCM theory, the scientific evidence base remains limited. Its evidence rating is 2, reflecting anecdotal and historical usage with minimal modern research validation. Clinicians considering its use should be aware of the traditional context and the limited empirical support for this indication.

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Nature's Sunshine Anti-Gas TCM