Evidence supporting the use of: Lemon
For the health condition: Constipation (children)

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Synopsis

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

Lemon has traditionally been used as a home remedy for relieving constipation, including in children. Folk medicine suggests that the citric acid found in lemon juice may stimulate the digestive system and help flush toxins from the gut, potentially improving bowel movements. Additionally, lemon juice is often recommended mixed with warm water as a gentle morning laxative. The high vitamin C content and some soluble fiber (mainly in the pulp, not juice) are thought to contribute to this effect. However, formal clinical studies specifically evaluating lemon’s efficacy for pediatric constipation are lacking. Most evidence is anecdotal or based on traditional use rather than rigorous scientific trials. Lemon juice’s mild acidity may stimulate peristalsis, and the increased fluid intake from lemon water may also help soften stools, providing some supportive rationale for its use. Despite its popularity in traditional practices, lemon should not replace medical treatment for chronic or severe constipation in children, especially since excessive lemon juice could cause dental erosion or stomach upset. In summary, while lemon is widely used in traditional remedies for childhood constipation, the scientific evidence supporting its effectiveness is limited, and its benefits are likely modest and largely due to increased fluid intake rather than any unique property of the lemon itself.

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