Evidence supporting the use of: Glandular Tissues
For the health condition: Adrenal Fatigue
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1
Glandular tissues, specifically adrenal gland extracts from animals, have been traditionally used in alternative and naturopathic medicine to "support" adrenal function and treat so-called "adrenal fatigue." The concept of adrenal fatigue itself is controversial and not widely recognized by mainstream endocrinology or major medical organizations, which instead only recognize well-defined adrenal insufficiency disorders (like Addison’s disease). Historically, glandular therapy—using animal organ extracts—emerged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, before the isolation and synthesis of specific hormones. Proponents believed that consuming adrenal tissue could “nourish” the corresponding human gland and restore function. However, scientific validation for this practice is lacking. Modern clinical research has not demonstrated efficacy or safety for glandular supplements in treating adrenal fatigue, and there are significant concerns about product purity and the risk of transmitting animal-borne diseases. Most claims are based on tradition and anecdotal reports, rather than controlled human studies. Major endocrinology societies do not recommend glandular supplements for adrenal issues except in the case of genuine hormone deficiency, which is treated with purified, standardized hormones rather than raw glandular extracts.
Other health conditions supported by Glandular Tissues
Addison's DiseaseAdrenal Fatigue
Debility
Hypothyroid