Evidence supporting the use of: Gastrodia
For the body system: Hypothalamus

Links: Go back one page, Tool main page, Ingredients list, Health conditions list, Body systems list

Synopsis

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

Gastrodia elata, commonly known as Tian Ma, is a traditional herbal remedy extensively used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Its primary historical applications include calming the liver, extinguishing wind, alleviating headaches, dizziness, and convulsions, and treating conditions like epilepsy and neuralgia. While Gastrodia is often regarded as a "brain tonic" in TCM, it is not specifically described as supporting the hypothalamus as understood in modern biomedical science. The hypothalamus is a region of the brain that regulates hormonal and autonomic processes, but TCM does not map its concepts directly to such anatomical structures.

There is limited scientific research suggesting Gastrodia may have neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory, and anticonvulsant effects, but direct evidence for hypothalamic support is lacking. Most studies focus on its effects on general neurological health, stroke recovery, or seizure mitigation, mainly in animal models. Therefore, its use for "hypothalamus support" is primarily grounded in traditional practice, not in direct scientific validation for that specific function.

In summary, Gastrodia’s reputation for supporting the hypothalamus comes largely from traditional concepts of calming neurological agitation rather than targeted effects on this brain region as defined in Western medicine. Evidence specifically for hypothalamic support is indirect and limited.

More about gastrodia
More about Hypothalamus