Evidence supporting the use of: Earthworm
For the health condition: Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disorder

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Synopsis

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

Earthworm, particularly in the form of "Di Long" (Lumbricus), has a long history of use in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for treating respiratory ailments, including symptoms that would today be classified under Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disorder (COPD). In TCM, Di Long is considered to have properties that “clear heat,” “remove wind,” and “open the channels,” which are believed to help relieve symptoms such as wheezing, coughing, and sputum production. Classical texts, such as the "Shen Nong Ben Cao Jing," mention its use for conditions involving difficulty in breathing and airway obstruction.

Modern scientific evidence for earthworm’s efficacy in COPD is limited and of low quality. Some pharmacological studies have identified lumbrokinase, an enzyme derived from earthworms, which may have anti-inflammatory and fibrinolytic effects. However, research in humans specifically evaluating earthworm or its extracts in the treatment of COPD is sparse, with most studies being preclinical or anecdotal. There is insufficient clinical data to support its use by evidence-based standards. Thus, while earthworm is used traditionally for symptoms overlapping with COPD, scientific validation of its safety and effectiveness for this indication is minimal.

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