Synopsis

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

Bitter principles, often derived from plants such as gentian, wormwood, and bitter orange, have a longstanding history of use in traditional medicine systems—particularly European herbalism and Traditional Chinese Medicine—for the management of digestive complaints, including nausea and vomiting. These herbs are classified as "bitters" and are thought to stimulate digestive secretions and motility through a reflex pathway initiated by the taste receptors in the mouth and gastrointestinal tract. Historical texts and herbal compendia frequently recommend bitter tonics for improving appetite and alleviating mild gastrointestinal discomfort, including queasiness. Despite extensive traditional use, the scientific validation for using bitter principles specifically to treat nausea and vomiting is limited. Most studies focus on their general effects on digestion, such as increased saliva, gastric acid, and bile production, rather than direct antiemetic action. Small clinical studies and anecdotal evidence suggest some people experience relief from digestive complaints, but robust, high-quality clinical trials examining their efficacy in nausea and vomiting are lacking. Consequently, while the traditional rationale is strong and supported by centuries of use, current scientific evidence does not robustly validate these claims for this specific indication.

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