Evidence supporting the use of: Mucins
For the body system: Mucus Membranes
Synopsis
Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3
Mucins are large glycoproteins that are a major component of mucus, which lines and protects mucous membranes throughout the body, including the respiratory, gastrointestinal, and urogenital tracts. Scientific evidence supports the importance of mucins for the normal function of mucus membranes: they provide lubrication, trap pathogens, and contribute to the barrier function that protects underlying tissues from mechanical damage and infection. There is research showing that mucin deficiency or altered mucin composition can contribute to diseases such as dry eye (ocular surface disorders), dry mouth (xerostomia), inflammatory bowel disease, and respiratory illnesses like cystic fibrosis, where abnormal mucus properties lead to health complications.
In terms of supplementation or therapeutic use, purified mucins (often porcine or bovine-derived) have been investigated as components of artificial saliva and artificial tears for individuals with dry mouth or dry eye, with some studies showing symptomatic relief. Mucin-containing lozenges, sprays, or gels are commercially available for these indications, and their use is generally based on the capacity of mucins to mimic or supplement natural mucous secretions. However, while mucins are critical for mucus membrane health, direct oral supplementation for systemic support is less well-established, and most scientific evidence pertains to topical or local use. Thus, there is moderate scientific support for mucins in supporting mucous membranes, especially in topical applications for dryness or damage.
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bayberry
beta-carotene
bilberry
bisabolol
blackberry
broccoli
ceramides
chamomile
citrus bioflavonoids
clove
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colostrum
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fruit and vegetable blend (proprietary)
glehnia root
glycerin
goldenseal
onion
horseradish
hypromellose
l-cysteine
l-threonine
lactobacillus crispatus
lactobacillus jensenii
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lactoferrin
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licorice root
marshmallow
methylmethionine sulfonium chloride (vitamin U)
mint
mixed carotenoids
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n-acetyl-glucosamine
n-acetyl-cysteine (NAC)
nettle
niacin (vitamin B3)
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olive
omega-7 fatty acids
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pear
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plantain
platycodon root
prebiotic blend (proprietary)
raspberry
riboflavin (vitamin B2)
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sage
slippery elm bark
sorbitol
thyme
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vitamin E
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zhejiang fritillary
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yellow root
boneset
mullein
chickweed
cardamom
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capsicum
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Balloon Flower
Belamcanda
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Colloidal Silver
Cod Liver Oil
Carvacrol
Citrus
Cineole
Cornflower
Cajuput
Cantaloupe
Catechu
Centipeda
Cistus
Cubeb
Cowslip
Cranesbill
Carotene (unspecified)
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Collinsonia
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