Evidence supporting the use of: Chinese Mountain Ant
For the body system: Skeletal System (Bones)
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1
Chinese Mountain Ant, also known as Polyrhachis vicina, has a long history of use in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). It is traditionally regarded as a tonic for strengthening the body, enhancing vitality, and promoting longevity. In TCM, Mountain Ants are believed to benefit the kidneys and liver, which are associated with bone health within this medical framework. As such, they are sometimes included in formulations intended to support the skeletal system and improve joint or bone strength, especially in aging populations.
However, scientific validation for these specific benefits is limited. Some laboratory studies have explored the general adaptogenic and immunomodulatory effects of ant extracts, but direct evidence linking Chinese Mountain Ant consumption to improved bone density, mineralization, or other skeletal health markers in humans is lacking. The traditional rationale is mainly based on empirical evidence and the ant's rich nutritional profile, including amino acids, trace minerals (such as zinc and selenium), and vitamins, which are generally supportive of overall health.
In summary, while the use of Chinese Mountain Ant to support the skeletal system is grounded in traditional usage, there is little robust scientific evidence to confirm its efficacy for this purpose. Therefore, its use for bone health should be considered traditional, with a low evidence rating.
More about Chinese Mountain Ant
More about Skeletal System (Bones)
Other ingredients that support Skeletal System (Bones)
alfalfaalpha-ketoglutarate (AKG)
amino acids
sesame
boron
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bovine
bovine gelatin
broccoli
calcium
cartilage
Chinese salvia root
chondroitin
cissus quadrangularis
collagen
collard
devil's claw
fish protein
gelatin
genistein
genistin
green lipped mussel
horsetail
ipriflavone
magnesium
manganese
microcrystalline hydroxyapatite concentrate (MCHC)
milk
phosphorus
protein
prune
rehmannia glutinosa
sardines
silicon
spinach
strontium
vitamin C
vitamin D
vitamin D3
vitamin K
seaweed
water
boneset
solomon's seal
eucommia
trace minerals
herbal blend (proprietary)
algae
soy isoflavones
Arugula
Antler
Achyranthes
Algas calcareas
Animal protein
Boswellic Acid
Beef
Bone Marrow
Baicalein
Bovine Protein
Borate
Boswellia
Bone Protein
bovine cartilage / glycosaminoglycan
Buckwheat
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Chinese Mountain Ant
Citrate malate
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Chinese Pond Turtle
Chuchuhuasi
Cruciferous
Corallina officinalis
Dolomite
Daidzein
Deer Velvet
Drynaria
Dipsacus
Egg
Elk antler
Eucommia ulmoides
Estrogen
fibroblast growth factor
Glycosaminoglycans
Isoflavones
Molasses
Milk Protein
Phosphate Salt
Soy Protein
Other body systems supported by Chinese Mountain Ant
Adrenal GlandsBlood
Brain
Circulatory System
Digestive System
Glandular System
Immune System
Joints
Kidneys
Liver
Male Reproductive System
Muscles
Nerves
Prostate
Reproductive System
Skeletal System (Bones)
Skin