Sete sangrias (Cuphea carthagenensis), a plant native to South America, has a long history of use in traditional medicine, particularly in Brazil. Its name translates to "seven bleedings," reflecting its use as a folk remedy for various ailments, including those related to the gastrointestinal tract. Traditionally, Sete sangrias has been employed as a tea or decoction to address digestive complaints such as stomach aches, indigestion, and mild gastrointestinal inflammation. Folk practitioners attribute its benefits to its purported anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.

Scientific evidence to support these uses is limited. Some in vitro and animal studies suggest that extracts of Cuphea carthagenensis may exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which could theoretically benefit the gastrointestinal tract. However, clinical trials in humans are lacking, and there is no robust, peer-reviewed research directly confirming its efficacy in supporting gastrointestinal health. The continued use of Sete sangrias for digestive issues remains rooted in traditional practice rather than scientific validation.

In summary, the use of Sete sangrias for the gastrointestinal tract is primarily justified by traditional knowledge, with minimal scientific evidence currently available to support these claims.