Synopsis

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

Polygala root, also known as Yuan Zhi (Polygala tenuifolia), has been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for centuries as a remedy for conditions related to mental health, including nervousness, anxiety, insomnia, and forgetfulness. In TCM, Polygala root is believed to "calm the spirit," "open the orifices," and "dissipate phlegm," which are concepts that relate to improving mental clarity and reducing agitation or restlessness. The traditional use is well-documented in classical Chinese Materia Medica texts, where it is often included in formulas designed to nourish the heart and soothe the mind.

Scientific research on Polygala root's effects on the nervous system is still limited, but some modern studies suggest potential anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) and neuroprotective effects. Animal studies have shown that extracts of Polygala tenuifolia may modulate neurotransmitter systems (such as serotonin and dopamine) and reduce stress-induced behaviors in rodents. However, these findings are preliminary, and robust clinical trials in humans are lacking. Most of the support for its use in nervousness remains rooted in tradition rather than strong scientific validation. Therefore, while traditional use is extensive, the scientific evidence supporting its efficacy for nervousness is still emerging and not yet conclusive.

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