Number and quality of randomised controlled trials in human subjects. Animal-only evidence scores lower.

FDA, Health Canada, or EMA approval, investigational status, or clinical trial registration significantly boosts the score.

Total volume of peer-reviewed publications, citation counts, and years of active research.

How well the mechanism of action is understood and replicated across independent research groups.

Documented adverse event data, long-term safety studies, and post-market surveillance records.