Synopsis

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

Rehmannia (Rehmannia glutinosa) is a traditional herb widely used in Chinese medicine, especially as a component of formulas intended to support the kidneys and, by extension in TCM theory, the "adrenal" system. In traditional Chinese medicine, the kidneys are seen as governing vitality, stress response, and hormone balance, functions that Western medicine often attributes to the adrenal glands. Rehmannia is often found in formulas like Liu Wei Di Huang Wan and Jin Gui Shen Qi Wan, which are prescribed for symptoms of fatigue, weakness, and stress—conditions sometimes interpreted as adrenal insufficiency or "adrenal fatigue" in alternative health contexts.

Despite its longstanding use in traditional systems, there is little direct scientific evidence linking Rehmannia to specific adrenal gland support or measurable effects on adrenal hormones such as cortisol. Some animal studies suggest Rehmannia extracts may have anti-inflammatory or immunomodulatory effects, but these do not directly confirm benefits for adrenal function. The association with adrenal health is therefore based primarily on traditional use and conceptual models from TCM rather than validated biomedical research. Thus, while Rehmannia is commonly promoted for adrenal support in herbal traditions, the scientific evidence supporting this specific application remains limited.

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