Phytotherapy in functional upper abdominal complaints Results of a clinical study with a preparation of several plants.

Efficacy and tolerance of Lomatol® drops (a preparation with extracts of the fruits of Carum carvi [caraway], fruits of Foeniculum vulgare [fennel], leaves of Menta piperita [peppermint] and the herb of Artemisia absinthium [wormwood] in the treatment of upper abdominal complaints was compared with the efficacy and tolerance of metoclopramide drops in a controlled, randomized, double-blind study. Their impact on the symptoms of pain, nausea, heartburn, retching and gastrospasms were assessed on a 5-point rating scale. During the two weeks of treatment and observation the phytodrug demonstrated statistically significant better results than the synthetic preparation in relieving all the symptoms. These findings were confirmed by subjective assessment of the general condition by the patient. Moreover, Lomatol® caused significantly fewer adverse drug reactions than metoclopramide and was statistically significantly better tolerated. Thus, this plant combination can be recommended for upper abdominal complaints without any restrictions. The same is also true for similarly composed Lomatol® coated tablets.