Synopsis

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

Shen-chu (神麴), also known as medicated leaven, is a traditional Chinese medicine ingredient composed of fermented wheat flour and various herbs. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), shen-chu is commonly used to aid digestion, stimulate appetite, and treat conditions such as anorexia (loss of appetite), indigestion, and food stagnation. Its use for anorexia is primarily justified by centuries of tradition rather than modern scientific validation. Historical texts and TCM formularies describe its function as "harmonizing the stomach" and "promoting the transformation of food," making it a frequent inclusion in prescriptions for patients exhibiting poor appetite or digestive weakness. Modern pharmacological research on shen-chu is limited. Some studies suggest that the fermentation process generates digestive enzymes and beneficial microorganisms, which may support gastrointestinal health and mildly stimulate appetite; however, these findings are preliminary and not specific to anorexia as defined in Western medicine. The existing evidence does not meet the criteria for rigorous scientific validation, as controlled clinical trials are lacking. Thus, the use of shen-chu for anorexia is best characterized as traditional, with moderate support in TCM practice but minimal backing from contemporary biomedical research.

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