Synopsis

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

Shen-chu, also known as "medicated leaven" or "shenqu," is a traditional Chinese medicinal fermentation product composed of various herbs, wheat flour, and sometimes other ingredients. Its use in treating acne is primarily justified by traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) frameworks, where it is believed to harmonize the stomach, aid digestion, and thereby indirectly benefit skin health. In TCM, acne is sometimes attributed to internal heat, dampness, and digestive imbalance, which shen-chu is traditionally prescribed to address. Historical materia medica texts, such as the Compendium of Materia Medica (Bencao Gangmu), cite shen-chu's utility for indigestion and related skin eruptions. However, there is very limited direct scientific evidence supporting its efficacy for acne. Modern research on shen-chu focuses more on its role as a digestive aid, with a few studies demonstrating effects on gut flora and enzyme activity, but not directly on acne outcomes. The indirect link between improved digestion and skin health is sometimes cited in TCM clinical practice, but controlled clinical trials specifically evaluating shen-chu for acne are lacking. Therefore, its use for acne is best understood as a traditional application with minimal scientific validation at present.

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