Synopsis

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

Rehmannia (Rehmannia glutinosa) is a perennial herb widely used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), particularly for its purported benefits to the adrenal glands and as a tonic for the kidneys. In TCM, the kidneys are believed to govern vitality, longevity, and resilience to stress, concepts that are sometimes mapped onto the adrenal gland function in Western herbalism. Rehmannia is thought to nourish Yin and replenish vital essence, and is commonly included in formulas designed to address "adrenal fatigue", low energy, and hormonal imbalances.

However, the traditional use of Rehmannia for adrenal support is not directly based on modern scientific understanding of adrenal gland physiology. Rather, it is inferred from TCM's broader concepts of kidney and endocrine health, where "kidney deficiency" symptoms may overlap with what Western practitioners call adrenal insufficiency. Some small animal studies suggest that Rehmannia extracts may have anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, but robust human clinical trials specifically evaluating adrenal function are lacking. There is also no strong biochemical evidence demonstrating that Rehmannia directly supports or heals adrenal tissue.

In summary, the use of Rehmannia for adrenal support is primarily justified on traditional grounds, with limited scientific validation. Its popularity in herbal formulas is rooted in centuries-old theories rather than contemporary endocrinological research.

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