Evidence supporting the use of: Sea Cucumber
For the body system: Skeletal System (Bones)
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2
Sea cucumber has been used in traditional medicine systems, particularly in East and Southeast Asia, to support joint and bone health. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), sea cucumber is valued for its reputed ability to "nourish yin" and "tonify the kidneys," which are metaphorically linked to bone strength and skeletal health in TCM theory. The traditional rationale is based more on empirical use and philosophical frameworks rather than on modern anatomical or biochemical evidence.
From a scientific perspective, there are some in vitro and animal studies suggesting that certain compounds in sea cucumber, such as chondroitin sulfate and other glycosaminoglycans, may have anti-inflammatory properties and could play a role in supporting joint function. However, direct evidence linking sea cucumber consumption to improved bone density or skeletal health in humans is lacking. The use of sea cucumber for skeletal support remains primarily rooted in tradition, with only limited preclinical scientific support and no robust clinical trials to confirm efficacy for bone health. Thus, while traditional use is established, scientific validation is weak at this time.
Other ingredients that support Skeletal System (Bones)
alfalfaalpha-ketoglutarate (AKG)
amino acids
sesame
boron
Indian frankincense
bovine
bovine gelatin
broccoli
calcium
cartilage
Chinese salvia root
chondroitin
cissus quadrangularis
collagen
collard
devil's claw
fish protein
gelatin
genistein
genistin
green lipped mussel
horsetail
ipriflavone
magnesium
manganese
microcrystalline hydroxyapatite concentrate (MCHC)
milk
phosphorus
protein
prune
rehmannia glutinosa
sardines
silicon
spinach
strontium
vitamin C
vitamin D
vitamin D3
vitamin K
seaweed
water
boneset
solomon's seal
eucommia
trace minerals
herbal blend (proprietary)
algae
soy isoflavones
Arugula
Antler
Achyranthes
Algas calcareas
Animal protein
Boswellic Acid
Beef
Bone Marrow
Baicalein
Bovine Protein
Borate
Boswellia
Bone Protein
bovine cartilage / glycosaminoglycan
Buckwheat
Comfrey
Chinese Silkvine
Chinese Mountain Ant
Citrate malate
Cod Liver Oil
Chinese Pond Turtle
Chuchuhuasi
Cruciferous
Corallina officinalis
Dolomite
Daidzein
Deer Velvet
Drynaria
Dipsacus
Egg
Elk antler
Eucommia ulmoides
Estrogen
Glycosaminoglycans
Isoflavones
Molasses
Milk Protein
Phosphate Salt
Soy Protein
Other body systems supported by Sea Cucumber
BloodCirculatory System
Digestive System
Gastrointestinal Tract
Immune System
Intestinal System
Joints
Liver
Male Reproductive System
Skeletal System (Bones)
Skin
Urinary System