Herbal medication in the management of non-ulcer dyspepsia

Although not considered part of mainstream medicine, it is estimated that over half of patients with gastrointestinal symptoms have used some form of complementary or alternative medicine (CAM) (Comar and Kirby, 2005). Herbal and non-herbal remedies and supplements constitute one very popular form of CAM used for symptomatic relief in gastroenterology. However, the current evidence-base for the effectiveness and efficacy of these remedies in gastroenterology is scant. In this skills in practice paper, the potential role and safety issues surrounding herbal and non-herbal remedies and supplements in the management of non-ulcer dyspepsia is examined