Evidence supporting the use of: Haliotis
For the health condition: Osteoporosis

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1

Haliotis, commonly known as abalone, is used in some traditional medicine systems—particularly in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)—for supporting bone health, including the treatment or prevention of osteoporosis. The use of haliotis in TCM is often rooted in its mineral content, especially calcium, and its reputed ability to "nourish the yin" and "strengthen the bones." However, the scientific evidence supporting the efficacy of haliotis or abalone shell extracts for osteoporosis remains limited and largely anecdotal or based on traditional formulations rather than rigorous clinical trials.

Some preclinical studies suggest that extracts from abalone shells may have a role in promoting osteoblast activity or calcium metabolism due to their high inorganic mineral content, but these findings are preliminary and not well replicated in human populations. Most clinical guidelines for osteoporosis do not include haliotis or abalone-based supplements, relying instead on well-established interventions such as calcium, vitamin D, bisphosphonates, and lifestyle modifications. Therefore, while haliotis is used in traditional contexts for bone health, scientific validation is lacking, and its use is not considered evidence-based by contemporary medical standards.

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