Evidence supporting the use of: Wax Gourd
For the body system: Spleen

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Synopsis

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

Wax Gourd (Benincasa hispida), also known as winter melon or ash gourd, is traditionally used in Chinese medicine to support the Spleen system. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the Spleen is believed to play a crucial role in digestion and the transformation and transportation of nutrients. Wax Gourd is thought to have cooling and diuretic properties, which help clear heat and promote the movement of fluids. According to classical TCM texts, this vegetable is often recommended for conditions such as edema, phlegm retention, and digestive disturbances—all of which are associated with Spleen dysfunction in TCM theory.

However, scientific studies directly validating this traditional use are limited. Some research has explored the general pharmacological properties of Wax Gourd, noting antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and mild diuretic effects. Despite these findings, there is insufficient modern clinical evidence specifically linking Wax Gourd consumption to measurable improvements in spleen health or function as defined by Western medicine. The continued use of Wax Gourd for Spleen support is thus mainly based on historical and empirical use in TCM rather than robust scientific validation.

More about Wax Gourd
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