Cholagogue — herbalism term · PlantSage glossary
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Cholagogue defined
— Promotes bile flow from the gallbladder.
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The definition
Plants that stimulate bile release into the small intestine. Indications include sluggish digestion of fats, constipation, and gallbladder stagnation (not acute stones).
Mechanism
Bitter constituents and saponins trigger cholecystokinin release, contracting the gallbladder. Some (artichoke) also stimulate hepatic bile production (choleretic).
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Example plants
Classic species in this category from the PlantSage archive.
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Related wellness goals
Common conditions where cholagogue plants are indicated.
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See also
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