Evidence supporting the use of: Polygala
For the health condition: Concentration (poor)

Links: Go back one page, Tool main page, Ingredients list, Health conditions list, Body systems list

Synopsis

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

Polygala, particularly Polygala tenuifolia (Yuan Zhi), has a long history of use in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) as a "Shen tonic," traditionally believed to calm the spirit, support memory, and improve cognitive function—including concentration. Historical texts describe its use for "restlessness" and "forgetfulness," and it is commonly found in herbal formulas intended for mental clarity and focus.

Scientific research on Polygala's effects on concentration specifically remains limited, though some animal studies suggest neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory, and cognition-enhancing properties. These studies attribute potential benefits to active compounds like tenuigenin and polygalasaponins, which may influence neurotrophic factors and neurotransmitters. However, most of these findings are preliminary, and direct evidence supporting improved concentration in humans is lacking.

In summary, the use of Polygala for poor concentration is primarily justified by traditional use rather than robust modern clinical validation. While early research is promising, current evidence does not strongly support its efficacy for this specific use in humans.

More about Polygala
More about Concentration (poor)

Products containing Polygala

We currently have no products on Vitabase that contain this ingredient.