Evidence supporting the use of: Shell
For the health condition: Osteoporosis

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Synopsis

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

Shell, particularly oyster shell and other calcium-rich marine shells, has been used traditionally in various cultures, especially in Chinese medicine, to support bone health and treat conditions like osteoporosis. The primary rationale is that shells are rich in calcium carbonate, a vital mineral for bone formation and maintenance. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), ground shell preparations (such as "Concha Ostreae") are believed to nourish the yin and strengthen bones.

From a scientific standpoint, calcium supplementation is a well-established intervention for osteoporosis. However, the use of shell specifically as a calcium source has limitations. While oyster shell calcium is bioavailable, it may contain impurities such as heavy metals if not properly purified. Studies comparing oyster shell calcium to other forms (like calcium carbonate from limestone or calcium citrate) have not found a significant difference in efficacy for improving bone mineral density, but purified forms are widely accepted as effective calcium sources.

Overall, the use of shell to support osteoporosis is justified by historical and traditional practices, with moderate scientific support for its calcium content being beneficial for bone health. Nevertheless, modern clinical guidelines tend to recommend purified pharmaceutical-grade calcium supplements over shell-derived products due to concerns about possible contaminants. Thus, the evidence is rated as 2, reflecting traditional use with partial scientific validation, mainly for the calcium itself rather than the shell as a unique ingredient.

More about Shell
More about Osteoporosis

Other health conditions supported by Shell

Calcium Deficiency
Osteoporosis

Products containing Shell

We currently have no products on Vitabase that contain this ingredient.