Traditional Uses: Traditionally used since ancient Greek times as a digestive bitter for loss of appetite and indigestion, as a fever reducer, and to treat snakebite, jaundice, flatulence, and worms.
Potential Benefits: May stimulate appetite and digestive secretions (saliva, stomach acid, enzymes) due to bitter compounds and exhibit antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, and antimicrobial properties in laboratory studies.
Warnings: Contraindicated in peptic ulcers, high stomach acidity, GERD, Crohn’s disease, and diarrhea; avoid during pregnancy/breastfeeding; may cause mild abdominal discomfort or cramps in sensitive individuals.
