Evidence supporting the use of: Alkylglycerols
For the health condition: Convalescence

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Synopsis

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

Alkylglycerols (AKGs), naturally occurring ether lipids found in shark liver oil and certain other animal tissues, have a long history of traditional use in Scandinavian and other folk medicines. They have been used to support recovery during convalescence—periods following illness, surgery, or trauma—primarily owing to anecdotal reports and the belief that they enhance immune function and promote tissue healing. Some historical accounts suggest that shark liver oil, rich in AKGs, was administered to improve strength and accelerate recovery in sick individuals, especially before the advent of modern antibiotics and therapeutics. However, scientific validation for these uses remains limited.

A small number of early studies (mostly from the mid-20th century) reported potential immune-enhancing and hematopoietic effects of AKGs, but these were typically uncontrolled, of low methodological quality, and not directly focused on convalescence. While there is some modern scientific interest in the immunomodulatory properties of AKGs, robust clinical trials specifically investigating their effects on recovery from illness or surgery are lacking. Thus, the use of alkylglycerols for convalescence is largely grounded in traditional practice and supported by low-level evidence, rather than strong scientific validation.

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Products containing Alkylglycerols

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