Evidence supporting the use of: Rehmannia glutinosa
For the body system: Skeletal System (Bones)

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Synopsis

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

Rehmannia glutinosa has a longstanding history of use in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), where it is often included in formulas intended to nourish the kidneys and support bone health. In TCM theory, the kidneys are believed to "govern the bones," and herbs that tonify kidney yin or yang, such as Rehmannia, are thought to strengthen the skeletal system. Classic herbal formulas like Liu Wei Di Huang Wan and Zuo Gui Wan, which contain Rehmannia, are prescribed to support bone health, particularly in cases of osteoporosis or age-related bone degeneration.

However, direct scientific validation for Rehmannia glutinosa's effect on human bone health is limited. Most available research is preclinical, involving in vitro or animal models. Some studies suggest that extracts of Rehmannia may influence bone metabolism, possibly by modulating osteoblast and osteoclast activity or affecting hormone levels relevant to bone growth. Nonetheless, these findings are preliminary and have not been robustly replicated in human clinical trials.

In summary, the use of Rehmannia glutinosa to support the skeletal system is primarily justified by traditional use within TCM, with only modest preliminary scientific evidence. More rigorous clinical research is required to confirm its efficacy for bone health in humans.

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