Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 3

Atractylodes (most commonly Atractylodes macrocephala) is a traditional medicinal herb widely used in East Asian medicine, especially within Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Its use for indigestion, poor appetite, bloating, and other digestive complaints is well-documented in classical TCM texts. In these systems, atractylodes is considered to "strengthen the Spleen" and "dry dampness," concepts that correspond to improving digestive function and addressing symptoms such as loose stools and abdominal distention. The herb is a key ingredient in many traditional formulas—such as Si Jun Zi Tang—aimed at treating what is described as "Spleen Qi deficiency," often manifested as chronic indigestion.

Scientific evidence supporting the use of atractylodes for indigestion is limited but growing. Preclinical studies have shown that extracts from atractylodes may have gastroprotective effects, such as promoting gastric motility, reducing gastric inflammation, and modulating gut microbiota. Some laboratory studies suggest that atractylodes extracts can increase digestive enzyme activity and protect the gastric mucosa. However, well-designed clinical trials in humans are lacking, so the evidence is not robust from a Western scientific standpoint. As a result, while the use of atractylodes for indigestion is strongly rooted in tradition and supported by centuries of empirical use, its efficacy according to modern clinical research remains to be conclusively established.

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