Synopsis

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

Iridoid glycosides are a class of compounds found in several medicinal plants, such as Gentiana lutea (gentian), Plantago species, and Harpagophytum procumbens (devil’s claw). Their use for dyspepsia (indigestion) is primarily justified by traditional herbal medicine practices, particularly in European and Asian phytotherapy. Herbal preparations containing iridoid glycosides, notably gentian root, have a long-standing reputation for stimulating appetite and improving digestive function. This is attributed to their bitter taste, which is believed to stimulate gastric secretions and improve digestion.

However, while iridoid glycoside-containing herbs are included in some official pharmacopeias and traditional formularies for dyspepsia, robust clinical evidence directly validating the efficacy of isolated iridoid glycosides for dyspepsia is limited. Most modern research focuses on the whole extracts or preparations rather than the purified glycosides themselves. Some small clinical and animal studies suggest potential benefits, but the quality of evidence is generally low and often confounded by the presence of other compounds in the herbal extracts.

In summary, the use of iridoid glycosides for dyspepsia is rooted in traditional medicine, with modest supporting evidence mainly from historical use and a few preliminary studies. There is not yet strong scientific validation for their effectiveness as isolated compounds in treating dyspepsia.

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