Synopsis

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

Yarrow (Achillea millefolium) has a long history of use in traditional medicine for a variety of digestive complaints, including dyspepsia (indigestion). In European folk medicine, yarrow was commonly used as a bitter digestive tonic and carminative to alleviate symptoms such as bloating, flatulence, and mild stomach discomfort. Its use for dyspepsia is documented in herbal texts dating back centuries, and it is included in several traditional pharmacopeias for this purpose.

The rationale for its traditional use centers on yarrow's content of bitter compounds (such as sesquiterpene lactones) and essential oils, which are thought to stimulate digestive secretions and enhance gastrointestinal motility. These properties are similar to other traditional digestive herbs.

However, while there is a strong tradition supporting yarrow's use for dyspepsia, scientific validation remains limited. A few in vitro and animal studies suggest potential spasmolytic, anti-inflammatory, and carminative effects, but robust clinical trials in humans are lacking. Thus, the evidence for its efficacy is mostly traditional and theoretical, with only preliminary pharmacological support.

In summary, yarrow's use for dyspepsia is primarily justified by longstanding traditional use, with some suggestive—but not definitive—pharmacological evidence. Clinical studies are needed to validate its effectiveness for this condition.

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