Medicinal Plants in Food Supplements for Gastrointestinal Disorders: Critical Assessment of Health Claims on Gastric Acid Regulation

Background: Gastrointestinal (GI) disorders associated with increased gastric acid secretion, such as gastroesophageal reflux, dyspepsia, bloating, and abdominal pain, significantly impair quality of life and present a substantial healthcare burden. Conventional therapies may have limited efficacy or undesirable side effects, underscoring the need for safe complementary approaches. This study systematically identifies and reviews the medicinal plants used in food supplements (FSs) marketed in Latvia for digestive health, focusing on the conditions linked to excess gastric acid.
Methods: A structured literature search was conducted to identify European plant species with proven protective effects on the digestive system or the ability to influence gastric acid levels. A market analysis was performed using the Latvian Food and Veterinary Service FS Register.
Results: A total of 218 FS-containing medicinal plants were identified, of which 15 species were included in at least ten products. The most frequently used plants were peppermint (Mentha piperita), artichoke (Cynara cardunculus), fennel (Foeniculum vulgare), Milk thistle (Silybum marianum), dandelion (Taraxacum officinale), chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla), psyllium (Plantago ovata), licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra), caraway (Carum carvi), lemon balm (Melissa officinalis), and chicory (Cichorium intybus). Label claims most often referred to supporting digestion, relieving bloating, and maintaining normal GI function. However, the majority of claims lacked robust clinical substantiation, and were based primarily on traditional use. Discrepancies between product information and available scientific evidence highlight regulatory and consumer protection challenges.
Conclusions: This work contributes to the critical evaluation of plant-based FSs for digestive health, emphasizing the need for standardized preparations, harmonized health claim assessment, and further clinical research to establish efficacy and safety.