Evidence supporting the use of: Glandular Tissues
For the health condition: Debility
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1
Glandular tissues, such as extracts from animal glands (e.g., adrenal, thyroid, thymus), have a long history of use in traditional and alternative medicine systems for the management of "debility"—a general state of physical weakness or lack of energy. The rationale behind their use stems from the principle of "like supports like" or organotherapy, where it is believed that consuming animal glands can support or revitalize the corresponding human organs, thereby improving overall vigor and addressing states of debility. This practice was especially popular in the late 19th and early 20th centuries before the advent of modern endocrinology.
However, scientific evaluation of glandular supplements for debility is limited and inconsistent. Most claims are not supported by controlled clinical trials, and the efficacy remains largely anecdotal or based on traditional beliefs rather than robust scientific evidence. The regulatory status of glandular extracts varies, and concerns about safety, consistency, and the potential for pathogen transmission have further limited their mainstream acceptance. While some early medical literature and case reports suggested benefits, these are not considered high-quality evidence by current standards. In summary, the use of glandular tissues to treat debility is primarily justified by tradition, with minimal scientific validation available.
Other ingredients used for Debility
adrenal cortexalfalfa
amino acids
apricot
bilberry
black currant
bovine
bovine spleen
carrot
chlorella
turmeric
elderberry
garlic bulb
ginger
grape
green tea
l-glutamine
milk
ornithine alpha-ketoglutarate
pomegranate
protein
spirulina
vitamin C
vitamin D
zinc
xanthium (cockleburs)
siler root
hyacinth bean
algae
Aralia
Antler
Ambergris
Angelica
acacia
Achyranthes
Anamu
Aletris
Algal protein
Ant
Abalone
Animal protein
Bishop's Weed
Beef Protein
Beef
Beef liver
Bovine Protein
Bael
Borassus aethiopum
Codonopsis
Cynomorium
Chlorophytum
Chicken
Deer Root
Deer Velvet
Elk antler
Flat-stem milk-vetch
glucose
Other health conditions supported by Glandular Tissues
Addison's DiseaseAdrenal Fatigue
Debility
Hypothyroid