Buddha's Hand (Citrus medica var. sarcodactylis) is a traditional medicinal fruit commonly used in Chinese medicine. Historically, it has been employed to address emotional disturbances such as "worry," which in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is often associated with stagnation of qi (vital energy), particularly in the lungs and spleen. Buddha's Hand is classified in TCM as a herb that "regulates qi" and is thought to help alleviate symptoms like chest tightness, digestive upset, and mood disturbances, including worry or mild anxiety. The fruit is typically used in decoctions, teas, or as a fragrance to "soothe the mind."

From a scientific perspective, there is limited evidence supporting these traditional uses. Some studies have identified bioactive compounds in Buddha's Hand, such as flavonoids and limonoids, with potential anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and neuroprotective effects. However, direct clinical studies evaluating its efficacy for treating anxiety, worry, or emotional disturbances are lacking. Thus, while its use for worry is well-established in traditional practice (earning a score of 2), robust scientific validation is absent, and the practice remains rooted primarily in historical and cultural precedent rather than modern clinical research.