Evidence supporting the use of: Belgium Endive
For the body system: Gall Bladder
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1
Belgium Endive (Cichorium intybus var. foliosum), also known as witloof or chicory, has a history of use in European traditional medicine for various digestive complaints, including those related to the liver and gall bladder. The bitter compounds in endive, primarily lactucopicrin and sesquiterpene lactones, have been thought in folk traditions to stimulate bile secretion, which could theoretically support the gall bladder’s function. However, while these beliefs form the basis for its traditional use, there is a lack of robust scientific studies directly examining Belgium Endive’s effect on gall bladder health or gallstone prevention in humans. The majority of modern phytotherapy literature references the broader chicory family (including root and leaves) rather than specifically Belgium Endive. Thus, while the use is justified by tradition, particularly in herbal and European folk practices, scientific validation is minimal. The evidence rating is low (1/5) due to the absence of focused clinical or mechanistic studies on Belgium Endive’s direct impact on the gall bladder.
Other ingredients that support Gall Bladder
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bupleurum falcatum
burdock
chicory
turmeric
dandelion
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gentian root
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chickweed
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fumaria parviflora
picrorhiza kurroa
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dioscorea
hydrangea
herbal blend (proprietary)
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boldo
Bitter principals
Black root
bile acid
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cholic acid
Centaurium erythraea
Cynarin
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Celandine
Culvers Root
Dehydrocholic acid
Endive
Enzyme Blend