Bovine spleen (bos taurus (spleen tissue))
Synopsis of bovine spleen
Bovine spleen refers to the spleen tissue of cows, used in glandular therapy and traditional medicine to support immune function, blood health, and iron metabolism. As part of the lymphatic system, the spleen plays a central role in filtering blood, recycling red blood cells, and producing and storing white blood cells. Bovine spleen supplements are prized for delivering immunologically active peptides, enzymes, minerals, and heme iron in a highly bioavailable form.
Key nutritional and functional components of bovine spleen include:
- Heme iron – supports red blood cell formation and oxygen transport
- Vitamin B12 and other B vitamins – essential for energy and neurological function
- Zinc and copper – critical for immune response and antioxidant defense
- Nucleotides, peptides, and splenic-specific enzymes – support white blood cell production and immune regulation
Bovine spleen is typically taken as:
- Desiccated or freeze-dried supplements, either alone or in combination with other organ extracts
- A source of natural heme iron in iron-deficiency support protocols
- A glandular tonic for immune and blood-building support
Health benefits include:
- Enhancing innate immune function, including macrophage and lymphocyte activity
- Combating fatigue and anemia by supporting red blood cell production
- Supporting autoimmune regulation and immune resilience
- Helping with recovery from chronic infections, inflammation, or blood loss
Historical Use:
In traditional medicine systems and ancestral diets, spleen was consumed as part of nose-to-tail eating, especially for those recovering from illness, anemia, or infection. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, the spleen is seen as a central organ in digestion and energy production, and although anatomically distinct from the Western spleen, herbs and foods that strengthen the spleen were thought to build Qi and blood.
Bovine spleen emerged in 20th-century glandular therapy as a way to nourish and support the human spleen and immune system, particularly in patients with chronic fatigue, low immunity, or blood disorders. Practitioners observed improved energy, infection resistance, and hematological markers with spleen supplementation.
Today, bovine spleen is included in immune-building formulas, ancestral nutrition blends, and iron-enhancing protocols, offering a natural, food-based alternative to synthetic supplements for those seeking to fortify their blood, immunity, and overall vitality.
Bovine spleen is used for these health conditions
Anemia (Traditional)
Debility (Traditional)
Fatigue (Traditional)
Pernicious Anemia (Scientific)
bovine spleen is used to support these body systems
Blood (Traditional)
Immune System (Traditional)
Spleen (Traditional)