Evidence supporting the use of: Codonopsis
For the health condition: Nervous Exhaustion

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Synopsis

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

Codonopsis pilosula, commonly known as Dang Shen or "poor man's ginseng," is widely used in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) as a tonic. In TCM, it is believed to strengthen the Qi (vital energy), support the spleen and lungs, and combat fatigue and weakness, which are symptoms often associated with what Western herbalism calls "nervous exhaustion." Historical texts, such as the Shennong Bencao Jing and later materia medica, reference Codonopsis as beneficial for convalescence and states of debility.

However, scientific evidence directly supporting its efficacy for "nervous exhaustion" is limited. Some laboratory studies and animal models suggest that Codonopsis extracts may have adaptogenic, anti-fatigue, and mild neuroprotective effects, but these findings are preliminary and not specific to the clinical syndrome of nervous exhaustion. Human trials are sparse and typically focus on broader fatigue or immune modulation. Therefore, while the traditional use for conditions resembling nervous exhaustion is well-documented, robust scientific validation is lacking, and current evidence should be regarded as preliminary and mostly indirect.

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