Evidence supporting the use of: Polygala
For the body system: Acetylcholine

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Synopsis

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

Polygala, particularly Polygala tenuifolia (commonly known as Yuan Zhi in Traditional Chinese Medicine), has a long history of use as a cognitive tonic and is traditionally employed to support memory, learning, and overall mental function. Historical texts and ethnobotanical records indicate its use to "calm the spirit," "open the orifices of the heart," and improve cognitive clarity. These actions are generally interpreted by modern herbalists as supporting the cholinergic (acetylcholine) system, which is essential for learning and memory in the brain.

Though there is emerging preclinical research suggesting that extracts of Polygala tenuifolia may influence cholinergic neurotransmission—through mechanisms like acetylcholinesterase inhibition and increased acetylcholine levels in animal models—the clinical evidence in humans remains limited. Most support for its use comes from tradition and historical use rather than robust, replicated scientific studies in humans. Therefore, while there is a plausible mechanism and some preliminary animal data, the justification for using Polygala specifically to support the acetylcholine system in humans is primarily based in tradition, not conclusive scientific validation.

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