Synopsis

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

Coptis chinensis, commonly known as Chinese goldthread or Huang Lian, has a long history of use in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for addressing gastrointestinal disturbances, including nausea and vomiting. In TCM theory, Coptis chinensis is considered a bitter and cold herb that clears “heat” and dries “dampness,” often prescribed for conditions believed to involve stomach heat or damp-heat, which are sometimes associated with symptoms like nausea and vomiting. Historically, it is frequently included in multi-herb formulas such as Huang Lian Jie Du Tang or Ban Xia Xie Xin Tang, which are used for various digestive complaints.

Modern scientific research, however, is limited in directly validating these traditional uses. Some laboratory and animal studies suggest that berberine, a primary alkaloid in Coptis chinensis, can modulate gastrointestinal motility and exert anti-inflammatory effects on the gut. These properties may indirectly relate to antiemetic (anti-nausea and anti-vomiting) effects, but there are very few high-quality clinical trials specifically evaluating Coptis chinensis or its extracts for this indication in humans. Thus, while traditional use is well documented and plausible mechanisms exist, strong scientific evidence is lacking and most support comes from historical texts and practitioner reports rather than rigorous clinical trials.

In summary, Coptis chinensis is traditionally used to address nausea and vomiting within the context of TCM, but robust clinical validation for this specific use is currently insufficient.

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