Synopsis

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

Atractylone is a major sesquiterpene component found in the rhizome of Atractylodes macrocephala, a medicinal plant widely used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). In TCM, the herb known as Bai Zhu is commonly employed to "strengthen the spleen," "dispel dampness," and "stop sweating." The concept of "chills" in TCM is often linked with the invasion of external cold or dampness, leading to disruptions in the body's energy balance. Atractylone-containing formulations are thus traditionally used to address symptoms including chills, especially when associated with digestive weakness or "damp-cold" presentations. Though animal and in vitro studies suggest atractylone possesses anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, there is no robust clinical or pharmacological evidence directly linking atractylone to the treatment of chills as defined in modern medicine (e.g., shivering due to fever or infection). The historical use is rooted in centuries of TCM practice, with many classical formulas citing Bai Zhu for symptoms inclusive of chills, but this is based on traditional theory rather than scientific validation. Therefore, while there is a strong tradition of use for chills in the context of TCM, the supporting scientific evidence remains limited, and the rationale is primarily historical and theoretical.

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