Evidence supporting the use of: Triterpenoid (unspecified)
For the body system: Adrenal Cortex
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2
Triterpenoids are a large and diverse class of naturally occurring compounds found in many plants, including well-known adaptogenic herbs such as licorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra), schisandra, and ginseng. Their use in supporting the adrenal cortex is primarily rooted in traditional herbal medicine systems, particularly Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and Ayurveda. In these systems, certain herbs containing triterpenoids are classified as "adaptogens," substances thought to help the body resist stress and support adrenal function. For example, licorice root has historically been used to address fatigue and symptoms associated with adrenal insufficiency, and its triterpenoid component, glycyrrhizin, is believed to modulate cortisol metabolism.
However, while some preclinical studies suggest that triterpenoids may influence steroid hormone biosynthesis or exert anti-inflammatory effects, robust clinical trials directly demonstrating their efficacy in supporting adrenal cortex function in humans are lacking. Most of the evidence comes from animal studies, cell culture experiments, or extrapolated from traditional use rather than from well-controlled human research. Thus, while the use of triterpenoid-containing herbs to support the adrenal cortex is justified by tradition and historical practice, scientific validation remains limited, warranting a moderate evidence rating.
More about Triterpenoid (unspecified)
More about Adrenal Cortex
Other ingredients that support Adrenal Cortex
ashwagandhaastragalus
bovine
bovine kidney
bovine liver
bupleurum falcatum
caterpillar mushroom
DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone)
eleuthero
ginseng
guayusa
licorice root
maca
pantothenic acid (vitamin B5)
phellodendron amurense
phosphatidylserine
rehmannia glutinosa
reishi mushroom
relora® (proprietary)
rhodiola
vitamin B
whole adrenal glandular
suma
lingzhi
sodium salt
dioscorea
ganoderma
anemarrhena asphodeloides
herbal blend (proprietary)
sea salt
Aralia
Animal Tissue
Black spruce
Black galingale
Bulbine natalensis
Barbasco
Clary sage
Cortisol
Coca
Chinese Thoroughwax
DHEA
Eurycoma Longifolia
Ginsenosides
Glycyrrhetinic Acid
Glycyrrhizin
salt