Evidence supporting the use of: Pig
For the body system: Adrenal Cortex
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2
The use of pig (porcine) extracts to support the adrenal cortex is primarily rooted in traditional practices, particularly within the context of "glandular therapy." Historically, glandular therapy involves consuming animal organs or tissues, such as adrenal glands, with the belief that they can support the corresponding human organ system. In the early to mid-20th century, desiccated adrenal extracts from pigs or cows were sometimes used by practitioners of alternative medicine to address symptoms of adrenal insufficiency or "adrenal fatigue." However, the rationale was largely based on the concept of "like supports like," rather than robust scientific evidence. Modern scientific validation for the efficacy of porcine adrenal extracts in supporting adrenal cortex function is lacking. While pharmaceutical-grade adrenal hormones (e.g., cortisol) can be synthesized and administered under medical supervision for adrenal insufficiency, the use of whole adrenal gland extracts from pigs is not supported by current clinical guidelines. There is also limited research on the safety, efficacy, or bioavailability of these extracts in humans. The use of pig adrenal gland supplements persists in some alternative health circles, but this is primarily due to tradition and anecdotal reports rather than controlled scientific studies. Therefore, while there is a historical basis for the practice, scientific evidence remains minimal, and the overall support for using pig-derived adrenal tissue in adrenal cortex health is weak.
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
salt