Synopsis

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

Pinellia (Pinellia ternata), known as "Ban Xia" in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), has a long history of use for digestive complaints, including dyspepsia (indigestion). Classical TCM texts describe Pinellia as having the ability to "dry dampness" and "transform phlegm," and it is commonly included in formulas such as Banxia Houpo Tang and Xiao Banxia Tang, which are prescribed for symptoms like nausea, vomiting, bloating, and a sensation of fullness—key features of dyspepsia. Modern herbal monographs and pharmacopeias continue to list Pinellia as a traditional remedy for these indications.

However, scientific validation for Pinellia’s effectiveness in treating dyspepsia is limited. A few laboratory and animal studies suggest that extracts of Pinellia may have antiemetic or gastrointestinal motility-modulating effects, but robust clinical trials in humans are lacking. Most references to its use for dyspepsia rely on historical and empirical evidence from TCM practice rather than modern biomedical research. Additionally, raw Pinellia is toxic and must be processed before use to reduce its irritant and toxic properties. In summary, Pinellia’s use for dyspepsia is primarily justified by tradition, with only weak supporting evidence from modern science.

More about Pinellia
More about Dyspepsia

Other ingredients used for Dyspepsia

Other health conditions supported by Pinellia

Products containing Pinellia