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Limited evidenceGut health

Atractylodes (Bai Zhu)

Bai zhu is one of the most-used herbs in Chinese digestive formulas but is almost never tested on its own. The available evidence concerns multi-herb formulas that contain it, plus animal work.

Evidence last reviewed: August 2026

What the science says

  • Functional dyspepsia Limited evidence

    A network meta-analysis of placebo-controlled randomized trials of herbal medicines for functional dyspepsia found benefit for several formulas, many of which contain Atractylodes. The contribution of the single herb cannot be separated out.

  • Effects on the gut in preclinical models Limited evidence

    Reviews of Atractylodes polysaccharides describe effects on intestinal barrier function and inflammation in animal and cell models. A systematic review of the genus likewise finds the pharmacology documented preclinically, with no trial of the isolated herb in people.

Dosage & safety

Studied doseTraditional decoctions use 6–12 g of dried rhizome daily, almost always inside a formula. Single-herb capsules typically supply 500 mg and have not been studied.
SafetyGenerally regarded as mild, with occasional dry mouth and nausea. Safety data in pregnancy are inadequate despite traditional use, and product quality varies because several Atractylodes species are sold interchangeably.

Scientific references

Where to buy

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