Plumbago zeylanica (commonly known as Chitrak or Ceylon Leadwort) has a long history of traditional use in Ayurvedic and other traditional medicine systems for the treatment of digestive disorders, including dyspepsia (indigestion). Classical Ayurvedic texts describe the root of this plant as a potent "deepana" (appetizer) and "pachana" (digestive stimulant), and it is often used in formulations aimed at increasing digestive fire ("agni") and alleviating symptoms such as bloating, flatulence, and discomfort after eating. The root is sometimes administered as a powder or decoction, occasionally in combination with other herbs.

However, scientific validation for the efficacy of Plumbago zeylanica in treating dyspepsia is limited. Some preclinical studies have indicated that extracts of the root possess activities that could theoretically support digestive health, such as stimulation of gastric secretions and mild prokinetic effects. The plant contains plumbagin, a naphthoquinone compound that has been shown to have various pharmacological effects, but direct human clinical evidence for its benefit in dyspepsia is lacking. Some studies also raise safety concerns regarding the potential toxicity of plumbagin at higher doses.

In summary, the use of Plumbago zeylanica for dyspepsia is well established in traditional medicine, but scientific evidence is limited and largely preclinical, with no robust clinical trials to firmly support its efficacy or safety for this indication.