Synopsis

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

Carqueja (Baccharis trimera) is traditionally used in South American folk medicine for various digestive complaints, including support of the liver and gall bladder. The herb has a longstanding history of use in Brazil and neighboring countries as a "bitter tonic," believed to stimulate bile flow, aid digestion, and address issues like "sluggish" gall bladder or dyspepsia. There are ethnobotanical records and herbal formularies that reference carqueja for these purposes, especially in cases where the gall bladder is thought to be under-functioning or after removal to support digestion.

However, scientific validation for these specific uses remains limited. Some laboratory studies have examined carqueja's hepatoprotective and choleretic (bile-stimulating) effects in animals, but robust clinical trials in humans addressing gall bladder function or post-cholecystectomy (gall bladder removal) are lacking. The evidence that does exist is primarily preclinical, involving biochemical assessments in rodents. Traditional use, not rigorous science, is the main basis for recommending carqueja for gall bladder issues.

In summary, carqueja's application for gall bladder support is rooted in traditional herbal practice, with modest preclinical support for its effects on bile dynamics. It is not currently endorsed by mainstream medicine for this indication due to insufficient clinical evidence.

More about Carqueja
More about Gall Bladder (sluggish or removed)

Other ingredients used for Gall Bladder (sluggish or removed)

Other health conditions supported by Carqueja

Products containing Carqueja