Synopsis

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

Ophiopogon root, known as "Mai Men Dong" in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), is primarily used to nourish yin, moisten dryness, and clear heat from the lungs and stomach. In the context of TCM, the Spleen does not correspond exactly to the anatomical organ but refers to a broader system involved in digestion and transformation of food into energy. While ophiopogon root is most commonly indicated for lung and stomach yin deficiency, it is sometimes used in formulas intended to support the Spleen, especially when dryness or "yin deficiency" affects Spleen function and leads to symptoms like dry mouth, poor appetite, or fatigue. However, direct references to ophiopogon root as a primary Spleen tonic are limited in classical TCM texts; other herbs such as Codonopsis (dang shen) or Atractylodes (bai zhu) are much more central to Spleen support. The use of ophiopogon for the Spleen is therefore more adjunctive and situational, based on the overall pattern diagnosed by a TCM practitioner. There is currently little to no scientific research specifically validating ophiopogon root's effects on the spleen, digestive health, or related metabolic processes in humans. Most studies focus on its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and cardioprotective effects. Thus, its use for the Spleen system is justified primarily by tradition, with only modest supporting evidence within the TCM framework and minimal scientific validation.

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