Evidence supporting the use of: Flesh-Finger Citron
For the health condition: Worry
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2
Flesh-Finger Citron (Citrus medica var. sarcodactylis), also known as Buddha's Hand, has a long history of use in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). In TCM, it is called "Fo Shou" and has been used as an herbal remedy for various conditions, including emotional disturbances such as "worry," anxiety, and melancholy. According to traditional belief, Flesh-Finger Citron helps to regulate qi (vital energy), especially in the liver and stomach meridians, which are thought to be involved in emotional health. Worry, in TCM, is often attributed to disharmony or stagnation of qi, and Fo Shou is prescribed to soothe the liver, harmonize the stomach, and relieve emotional distress.
Despite its historical use, there is limited scientific research directly supporting the efficacy of Flesh-Finger Citron for treating worry or anxiety. Some modern studies have investigated the plant's essential oils and found mild sedative or anxiolytic effects in animal models, but the evidence in humans is lacking, and no major clinical trials have validated its use for psychological symptoms. Therefore, while its use for worry is well-established within the context of traditional herbal practice, scientific validation remains minimal. The current support for its use is thus primarily traditional, with moderate anecdotal and historical evidence but limited empirical backing.
Other ingredients used for Worry
5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP)ashwagandha
waterhyssop
benegut perilla (proprietary)
damiana
fennel
GABA (gamma aminobutyric acid)
guayusa
kudzu
l-theanine
l-tyrosine
lavender
lion's mane
magnesium
motherwort
ophiopogon root
polygala root
relora® (proprietary)
vitamin B6
zinc
cardamom
1,3,7-Trimethylpurine-2,6-dione
Albizia
Buddha's Hand
bacoside
Poppy
Other health conditions supported by Flesh-Finger Citron
Abdominal PainAcid Indigestion
Anxiety
Appetite (deficient)
Asthma
Belching
Bronchitis
Cough (damp)
Cough (dry)
Cough (general)
Cramps and Spasms
Digestion (poor)
Edema
Fever
Gas and Bloating
Gastritis
Headache (general)
Indigestion
Infection
Inflammation
Insomnia
Nausea and Vomiting
Pain (general remedies for)
Sore Throat
Stress
Ulcers
Worry
Wounds and Sores