Effects of sumac aqueous extract along with eating and drinking modification on functional dyspepsia symptoms in comparison with omeprazole: An open-label, randomized, controlled clinical trial.

Abstract

Objective: Functional dyspepsia (FD), a common gastrointestinal problem. The aim of the study was to evaluate the influence of Rhus coriaria L. (sumac) on FD.

Materials and methods: This randomized controlled clinical trial study included 104 patients aged 18 to 60 years diagnosed with FD according to the ROME IV criteria. Four groups were formed: A) sumac extract + dietary changes, B) dietary changes, C) sumac extract and D) omeprazole. During the present eight-week study, patients' FD symptoms were assessed using the Gastrointestinal Symptom Rating Scale (GSRS) in four sessions. The Nepean Dyspepsia Index (NDI-10) was used to measure the impact of the interventions on patients' quality of life.

Results: The study employed generalized estimating equation (GEE) analysis and found that symptom severity decreased across all groups during the intervention period. At the fourth week, no notable difference was noted between the omeprazole group and others. After the intervention, the severity of symptoms increased, especially in the omeprazole group, resulting in a significant difference compared to other groups.

Conclusion: It seems that as a complementary treatment in FD, sumac might be effective with a more lasting effect with a significantly less recurrence of symptoms.