Evidence Trace, complete trial record

In plain terms

In plain terms: Padma Basic (Tibetan multi-herb formula) shows early signals in human research but the evidence is limited -- small trials, surrogate endpoints, or not yet independently replicated. It is an emerging area, not yet a proven one.

Padma Basic (Tibetan multi-herb formula)

C Limited: small, mixed or unreplicated trials

Category Supplements

Evidence Cochrane meta-analysis of randomized trials

Reviewed July 2026

PMIDs 27021597 · 16600251

The endpoint this grade is based on: Objectively measured functional outcome, Circulation / vascular support; moderate human evidence for improving pain-free and maximum walking distance in intermittent claudication (peripheral arterial disease). Not a core longevity supplement.

The evidence as the record states it

Evidence record

PMID 27021597 PMID 16600251

Stewart et al. (Cochrane Database Syst Rev, 2016; PMID 27021597): five placebo-controlled randomized trials, 365 participants, at least 16 weeks; walking distance rose within the Padma 28 groups, and two trials (193 participants) pooled showed maximum walking distance 96 m higher than placebo, rated very low quality evidence; small trials, limited between-group statistics, withdrawal linked to the outcome and evidence of publication bias; no effect on ankle brachial index. Melzer et al. (Atherosclerosis, 2006; PMID 16600251): earlier pooled analysis of the same trials, positive. Grade C: the trials are small and the Cochrane review rates the evidence very low quality and asks for well-designed research.

PMID 27021597 PMID 16600251

Why Grade C and not Grade B

Grade C reflects early or limited human evidence -- small trials, surrogate endpoints, or preliminary findings not yet independently replicated. The evidence points in a promising direction but does not yet meet the standard for Grade B. A single well-powered, independently replicated trial with a meaningful endpoint would move this to Grade B or higher.

What this grade covers and what it does not

Grade C on walking distance in intermittent claudication. Five small placebo-controlled trials report longer walking distance, and the Cochrane review pools two of them to a 96 m gain in maximum walking distance (Stewart et al., 2016; PMID 27021597), but rates every result very low quality: small samples, little between-group statistics, withdrawals tied to the outcome and evidence of publication bias. Under the written definitions, B needs at least one well-designed trial supported by others; small trials of very low quality are C. Moved from B in October 2026 by applying the written grade definitions. WHAT THIS GRADE DOES NOT COVER: longer-term use beyond about four months, which no trial followed; quality of life, which no trial reported; and ankle brachial index, which did not change in the one trial that measured it.

What would move this grade

A well-powered randomized trial with an objective, clinically meaningful primary endpoint and at least one independent replication would support Grade B or higher.

How to track whether this is working Pain-free walking distance and maximum walking distance (6-minute walk test or treadmill). Walking distance is re-measured at 8 to 16 weeks. Ankle-brachial index annually if PAD is documented.