Synopsis

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

Lesser speargrass (scientific name: Stipagrostis pennata or sometimes referring to Stipa capensis) has a history of use in traditional medicine systems, especially in parts of Africa, the Middle East, and South Asia, for a variety of ailments including dyspepsia (indigestion). Ethnobotanical surveys and records indicate that traditional healers have employed preparations made from the seeds or aerial parts of the plant as mild digestive aids, often to soothe stomach discomfort and promote appetite. The use is generally based on long-standing local practices and anecdotal reports rather than on rigorous clinical studies.

However, scientific validation for the use of Lesser speargrass in dyspepsia is minimal, with very limited pharmacological studies investigating its effects on the digestive system. No robust clinical trials or systematic reviews exist to confirm efficacy or safety for this indication. Phytochemical screening has identified some bioactive compounds in the plant, but their direct impact on digestive function remains unclear. Therefore, while the traditional use is documented, the evidence supporting its effectiveness is weak (rated 2/5), and more research is needed to evaluate its potential as a treatment for dyspepsia.

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