Evidence supporting the use of: Oriental Bush Cherry
For the body system: Spleen
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2
Oriental Bush Cherry, also known as Cerasus japonica or Prunus japonica, has a history of use in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). In TCM, it is sometimes used to "invigorate the Spleen," a concept referring not directly to the anatomical spleen but to a functional system related to digestion, nutrient assimilation, and energy (Qi) production. The Spleen in TCM is thought to play a central role in transforming food into usable Qi and blood, thus supporting overall vitality. The fruit and seeds of Oriental Bush Cherry are sometimes included in herbal formulas intended to address Spleen Qi deficiency, which may present as fatigue, poor appetite, and digestive complaints.
Despite this traditional use, there is limited modern scientific research directly investigating the effects of Oriental Bush Cherry on the Spleen or digestive function according to biomedical definitions. Most available evidence for its use is based on historical texts, empirical practice, and the broader understanding of the Spleen system in TCM. No high-quality clinical trials or laboratory studies have confirmed or refuted its efficacy for these purposes. Therefore, its use is justified primarily by tradition, and the evidence level is low to moderate, reflecting reliance on historical rather than scientific validation.
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