Pseudostellaria heterophylla, known as "Tai Zi Shen" in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), has a long history of use as a tonic herb. In TCM, it is traditionally used to support "Qi" (vital energy) and to nourish the body, particularly in cases of fatigue, weakness, and conditions interpreted as "blood deficiency," which can align loosely with the concept of anemia in Western medicine. Ancient texts and modern TCM pharmacopeias list Tai Zi Shen for use in improving appetite, supporting recovery from illness, and enhancing vitality, often as a milder substitute for Panax ginseng.

However, there is very limited direct scientific research validating its efficacy specifically for anemia. Some laboratory and animal studies suggest that Pseudostellaria heterophylla may have immunomodulatory and anti-fatigue effects, and possibly some impact on red blood cell production, but these findings are preliminary and not robustly linked to human anemia treatment. There are no high-quality clinical trials demonstrating its effectiveness for anemia in humans. Thus, the use of Pseudostellaria heterophylla for anemia is primarily justified by traditional use rather than by scientific validation.

In summary, Pseudostellaria heterophylla is traditionally used in TCM to "tonify Qi and blood," which is interpreted as supportive for conditions like anemia, but strong scientific evidence for its effectiveness in treating anemia is lacking.