Evidence supporting the use of: Atractylodes
For the body system: Spleen

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 3

Atractylodes (primarily Atractylodes macrocephala) has a long history of use in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), where it is considered a key herb for strengthening the Spleen system. In TCM, the "Spleen" encompasses a range of digestive and metabolic functions, not just the anatomical spleen. Atractylodes is believed to tonify the Spleen Qi, dry dampness, and improve appetite, energy, and digestive health. Classic herbal texts, such as the "Shennong Bencao Jing" and the "Compendium of Materia Medica," list atractylodes as a fundamental remedy for symptoms like fatigue, diarrhea, bloating, and poor digestion, all considered signs of Spleen Qi deficiency in TCM theory.

Modern scientific studies on atractylodes are limited, but some pharmacological research suggests that extracts may have anti-inflammatory, gastroprotective, and immunomodulatory effects. However, these findings are preliminary and do not directly validate the broad TCM indications for "Spleen support." Therefore, while atractylodes is widely justified by traditional use for supporting the Spleen system, robust scientific evidence is currently insufficient.

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