Synopsis

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

Rhizomes, particularly those from plants such as Zingiber officinale (ginger), Curcuma longa (turmeric), and Alpinia officinarum (galangal), have a long-standing history in traditional medicine systems for supporting appetite, especially in cases of deficiency. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), for instance, rhizomes like ginger (Sheng Jiang) and galangal (Gao Liang Jiang) are commonly prescribed to “warm the middle,” dispel cold, and stimulate digestive function, which is believed to enhance appetite in individuals experiencing a lack thereof. Similarly, in Ayurveda, ginger and turmeric are used to kindle agni (digestive fire), thus improving appetite and assimilation of nutrients.

The traditional rationale is based on observation and centuries of empirical use, where these rhizomes are noted for their carminative, warming, and aromatic properties, all of which are thought to counteract symptoms of digestive sluggishness and poor appetite. While some modern studies have begun to explore the digestive benefits of these rhizomes, the bulk of the evidence supporting their use for appetite stimulation is rooted in traditional practice rather than rigorous clinical trials. Therefore, the evidence level is moderate (3/5), grounded primarily in historical and ethnobotanical records, with limited but suggestive scientific corroboration.

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