Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Tamarind (Tamarindus indica) has a longstanding history of use in traditional medicine systems, particularly in South Asia and Africa, where it is employed as a natural remedy for constipation in both adults and children. The pulp of tamarind fruit contains organic acids (including tartaric acid), dietary fiber, and certain sugars that are believed to exert a mild laxative effect. In traditional practice, tamarind pulp is often consumed directly or prepared as a sweetened beverage to relieve digestive discomfort and promote bowel movements.

Despite its widespread traditional use, scientific studies specifically evaluating tamarind's laxative effects in children are limited. Some animal studies and small clinical observations suggest that the fruit may increase intestinal motility and stool frequency due to its fiber content and osmotic properties. However, these findings are not robustly confirmed in large, well-controlled human trials, especially in pediatric populations.

Major pharmacopoeias and herbal compendia note tamarind's traditional application for constipation, but most official guidelines do not list tamarind as a first-line treatment for pediatric constipation. Thus, while tamarind is traditionally used for this purpose and plausibly exerts mild laxative effects, the current evidence base is modest and primarily anecdotal.

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