Evidence supporting the use of: Blood
For the health condition: Debility
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 4
The use of blood, particularly animal blood, to treat or support debility has a long history rooted in traditional medicine systems across various cultures. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), for example, the concept of "blood deficiency" is believed to cause symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, and general debility. Remedies that include animal blood (such as deer or pig's blood) or blood-rich foods are prescribed to "nourish the blood" and restore vitality. Similarly, in some African and indigenous practices, drinking animal blood was historically considered a means to gain strength and energy, particularly after illness or for those experiencing profound weakness.
While there is limited direct scientific evidence supporting the efficacy of consuming blood for general debility, these practices are well-documented in ethnomedical literature. The rationale in traditional systems often centers around the symbolic and nutritional value of blood, as it contains hemoglobin, iron, and protein, which could theoretically help address anemia and associated symptoms of weakness. However, modern medicine would generally treat debility with targeted therapies based on underlying causes (such as iron supplements for anemia) rather than recommending the consumption of animal blood. Despite the lack of contemporary clinical trials, the historical and ethnographic record demonstrates a strong traditional justification for the use of blood in treating debility.
Other ingredients used for Debility
adrenal cortexalfalfa
amino acids
apricot
bilberry
black currant
bovine
bovine spleen
carrot
chlorella
turmeric
elderberry
garlic bulb
ginger
grape
green tea
l-glutamine
milk
ornithine alpha-ketoglutarate
pomegranate
protein
spirulina
vitamin C
vitamin D
zinc
xanthium (cockleburs)
siler root
hyacinth bean
algae
Aralia
Antler
Ambergris
Angelica
acacia
Achyranthes
Anamu
Aletris
Algal protein
Ant
Abalone
Animal protein
Bishop's Weed
Beef Protein
Beef
Beef liver
Bovine Protein
Bael
Borassus aethiopum
Codonopsis
Cynomorium
Chlorophytum
Chicken
Deer Root
Deer Velvet
Elk antler
glucose