A traditional formula for indigestion, bloating, and food stagnation

Relieve Stomach Stagnation (Bao He Wan) supports the body when overeating, rich food, alcohol, or irregular meals leave the stomach feeling heavy, bloated, and uncomfortable. Zhu Zhen-Heng first recorded it in Dan Xi Xin Fa (Teachings of Zhu Dan-Xi) in 1481. Practitioners have long chosen it when food lingers in the stomach and digestion slows down. It remains a trusted choice when discomfort follows eating too much or eating foods that are harder to digest.

When to use it

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, practitioners choose Relieve Stomach Stagnation when food stagnation blocks the stomach and interrupts normal digestion. Fullness may develop in the upper abdomen. Bloating may increase. Belching may smell sour or rotten. Some also notice acid regurgitation, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, poor appetite, or abdominal discomfort after eating.

Many choose this formula for indigestion, overeating-related discomfort, acid reflux after heavy meals, nausea, bloating, and food stagnation after rich or greasy food. It suits those who want support when the stomach feels overloaded and digestion no longer moves comfortably.

Why it stands out

What makes Relieve Stomach Stagnation so useful is its focused digestive action. It does not simply settle the stomach. It helps break up food stagnation, regulate stomach Qi, and restore more normal digestive movement. This makes it a strong choice for natural support when discomfort starts with food sitting too heavily and digestion feeling stuck.

Research

Research on Relieve Stomach Stagnation has shown encouraging results in functional dyspepsia, atrophic gastritis, indigestion, and digestive upset linked to high-fat or high-protein diets. Studies have reported better digestive enzyme activity, healthier gut microbiota balance, and improvements in food-related digestive discomfort. Research has also highlighted good clinical results in indigestion and broader gastrointestinal regulation. This gives Relieve Stomach Stagnation strong modern relevance and supports its traditional use when food stagnation leads to bloating, reflux, and post-meal discomfort.

Important to know

Use Relieve Stomach Stagnation with caution during pregnancy. Avoid oily, greasy, and fatty foods while taking it.