Evidence supporting the use of: Atractylodes
For the health condition: Constipation (adults)

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Synopsis

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

Atractylodes is a traditional Chinese medicinal herb commonly used in formulations for digestive disorders, including constipation. Its use for constipation is primarily rooted in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) theory rather than robust modern scientific evidence. In TCM, atractylodes is believed to strengthen the spleen and promote movement of Qi (vital energy), which can help regulate the digestive tract and address constipation, especially when it is related to what practitioners describe as "spleen Qi deficiency." Classic herbal formulas containing atractylodes, such as "Liu Jun Zi Tang" or "Shen Ling Bai Zhu San," are frequently prescribed for patients experiencing sluggish digestion and constipation accompanied by fatigue and bloating.

Some preclinical studies have shown that extracts from atractylodes may have prokinetic effects—meaning they can promote intestinal movement—in animal models, and may modulate gut motility through effects on the enteric nervous system or gut microbiota. However, high-quality clinical trials in humans are lacking, and there is limited direct evidence supporting atractylodes as a single agent for treating constipation. Most of the evidence remains anecdotal or based on traditional use rather than rigorous scientific validation. Therefore, its use for constipation in adults is best characterized as "traditional," with a modest level of supporting evidence (2 out of 5), mainly due to longstanding use in TCM rather than strong clinical data.

More about atractylodes
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