Synopsis

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

Shen-chu (神麴), also known as "medicated leaven" or "shenqu," is a traditional Chinese fermentation product made by fermenting wheat flour with various herbs and microorganisms. In the context of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), shen-chu has been used for centuries primarily to aid digestion and improve the function of the spleen and stomach, which are believed in TCM theory to play a central role in the production of qi and blood. According to TCM, anemia is often categorized as a "blood deficiency," and treatments aim to strengthen the spleen and nourish the blood. Shen-chu is sometimes included in herbal formulas prescribed to address underlying digestive weakness that may contribute to poor blood production or assimilation of nutrients, indirectly supporting the body's ability to generate blood. However, the use of shen-chu specifically for the direct treatment of anemia is not strongly emphasized in classical texts or modern clinical guidelines, and its inclusion is often secondary to other, more directly blood-nourishing herbs. Scientific research on shen-chu's effects in anemia is limited; most available studies focus on its probiotic, digestive, and metabolic impacts rather than hematological parameters. Thus, its use for anemia is rooted mainly in traditional practice, with only indirect and modest supporting evidence. The overall evidence for its effectiveness in treating anemia is therefore rated as 2 out of 5, reflecting primarily traditional use with limited scientific validation.

More about shen-chu
More about Anemia

Other ingredients used for Anemia

Other health conditions supported by shen-chu

Products containing shen-chu

Nature's Sunshine Anti-Gas TCM