Synopsis

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

Gastrodia elata (Tian Ma) is a traditional Chinese medicinal herb widely used in East Asian medicine, primarily for neurological and emotional conditions. In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), Gastrodia is believed to "calm the liver," extinguish internal wind, and alleviate symptoms such as dizziness, headache, spasms, and emotional instability, which may include heightened emotional sensitivity. The herb is often included in formulas intended to address irritability, restlessness, or emotional lability, particularly when these symptoms are ascribed to "wind" or "liver yang rising" in TCM theory.

However, while Gastrodia is cited in classical texts for its harmonizing and calming effects, the scientific evidence directly supporting its impact on emotional sensitivity (as distinct from general anxiety or neurological disorders) is limited. Some modern research suggests that Gastrodia extracts may have anxiolytic and neuroprotective effects, but these studies largely focus on animal models and broader neurological outcomes rather than specific emotional sensitivity. Thus, its use for emotional sensitivity is primarily justified by traditional usage rather than rigorous modern clinical validation.

In summary, Gastrodia’s application for emotional sensitivity is rooted in TCM tradition, with modest supporting evidence from preclinical studies. There is a lack of robust, high-quality human trials specifically addressing emotional sensitivity, so the evidence rating reflects this gap.

More about gastrodia
More about Emotional Sensitivity

Other ingredients used for Emotional Sensitivity

Other health conditions supported by gastrodia

Products containing gastrodia

Nature's Sunshine Anti-Gas (Chinese)
Nature's Sunshine Anti-Gas TCM